Pale Waves‘ upcoming album Smitten, set for release on September 27 via Dirty Hit, marks a significant evolution for the Manchester-based band. Known most recently for the rebellious pop-punk sound of their 2022 album Unwanted, the group now ventures into a more polished and vibrant alt-pop territory. This transition highlights their Northern roots while delivering fresh, ear-catching melodies, driven by jangly guitars, vibrant hooks, and punchy snares. The shift feels organic, showing the band’s growth as they explore new musical and emotional landscapes.
At the core of Smitten lies lead vocalist Heather Baron-Gracie’s introspective journey. The song-writing evokes the image of rediscovering a long-forgotten teenage diary, full of deeply personal memories. As such, the song-writing on the album explores the intensity of love, particularly in queer relationships, blending nostalgia, heartache, and moments of clarity. Baron-Gracie doesn’t just reflect on recent experiences but draws from memories of years past, examining how relationships have shaped her. This introspection gives the album a sense of looking backward, yet it’s grounded in a mature, self-reflective space.
The lead single, ‘Perfume,’ is a prime example of this new direction. With its infectious, eighties-inspired sound reminiscent of bands like The Cure and The Cranberries, the track pairs shimmering guitars with introspective lyrics. It captures the excitement and obsession of early relationships, especially those filled with the confusion and intensity of queer love. Baron-Gracie’s lyrics about being completely consumed by love – “Call me obsessed but I don’t mind just as long as it’s all mine” – perfectly embody the thrilling, all-consuming nature of infatuation.
Another standout track, ‘Gravity,’ further delves into themes of love and loss. Here, Baron-Gracie reflects on a relationship where faith came between her and her partner, adding emotional depth to the album’s narrative. ‘Glasgow,’ the album opener and Baron-Gracie’s personal favourite track, is a heart-wrenching but euphoric exploration of ending a relationship that is no longer healthy. It’s a testament to her lyrical ability to navigate complex emotions with authenticity.
Smitten’s thematic richness and emotional honesty make it a poignant and powerful album. Each track unfolds like a chapter in Baron-Gracie’s life, documenting the highs and lows of deep, often tumultuous relationships. Whether singing about the euphoria of new love or the pain of letting go, her raw, authentic lyrics resonate deeply with listeners. The balance between vulnerability and infectious alt-pop melodies gives Smitten a unique emotional depth, ensuring it will leave a lasting impact on both long-time fans and newcomers.
With its infectious alt-pop sound and deeply personal lyricism, Smitten stands as a defining moment in Pale Waves’ career. The album marks a clear evolution for the band, moving away from the angst-driven pop-punk of Unwanted toward a more reflective and emotionally nuanced approach. This shift shows the Manchester outfit’s willingness to experiment while staying true to the raw honesty that has always defined their music. For fans, Smitten will offer a nostalgic reflection on familiar themes of love and loss, while also taking a bold step into the future. It’s a testament to Pale Waves’ ability to remain fresh and relevant, all while delving deeper into the emotional core of their music.
Photo Credit: Niall Lea
