Sabrina Carpenter’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, “Short n’ Sweet” was released two weeks ago. Jam-packed with Carpenter’s witty sense of humor and impressive vocal range, it has quickly become a no-skip album for many of us. To write this article, I re-listened to the album to give my honest takes of the 36-minute record.
The album starts off with a fan favorite: “Taste.” Out of the new songs released in August, “Taste” has received the most love. It currently holds number one in Spotify’s Top 50, likely because of the catchy and relatable lyrics. The song details Carpenter still being present in one of her ex’s new relationships. Some fans have speculated that this fling might have been with Shawn Mendes, as they were spotted together a number of times in early 2023. From the new releases, “Taste” has been my most played song, and I think it’s three minutes of perfection. There’s nothing I would change about it.
The next song on “Short n’ Sweet” is Carpenter’s second single release from this album entitled “Please Please Please.” This song was a fun summer hit speculated to be written about Sabrina’s current boyfriend, Barry Keoghan. The hard launch of Barry in the “Please Please Please” music video was definitely iconic to say the least. As much as some fans are in love with this relationship, I unfortunately am forced to think of Barry’s character in “Saltburn” every time I see him and Sabrina together…
Next up is “Good Graces.” I love how upbeat and different this song is compared to her other songs. I think it’s fallen under the radar with the release of the rest of the album. In my opinion, it would’ve done well if it was released as a single.
“Sharpest Tool” is the fourth song on “Short n’ Sweet.” This song is so rhythmically unique. Packed with strong lyrics and vocals, the song is close to perfection.
“Coincidence” is slower compared to the other songs on the album. The lyrics are the thing I like most about the song. It’s not a song I would go back and listen to, but paired with the rest of the album, it does allow for a more holistic record.
“Bed Chem” is so much fun. Exactly what pop should be.
“Espresso” was released as the lead single for “Short n’ Sweet” and quickly became the song of the summer. Even if you’re not a Carpenter fan, “Espresso” is hard to not fall in love with.
Following “Espresso” is “Dumb & Poetic.” I’m so impressed with this song. The ballad style contrasts beautifully with the other upbeat songs in this record.
Sabrina’s Dolly Parton-esque song is entitled “Slim Pickins.” This quick and witty tune is so pleasant and timeless. This song shows off how impressive a vocalist Carpenter truly is.
“Juno” is everything a pop song should be. It even pays tribute to one of my personal favorite movies, making it hard to not love.
The penultimate song in the album is “Lie to Girls.” Honestly, it’s my least favorite song on the record. I found the track tragically boring.
“Don’t Smile” closes the album. I think the chorus is lyrically dynamic, but overall I was not too impressed with this track.
“Short n’ Sweet” has given Sabrina Carpenter attention from a larger audience than ever before. I’m so excited to see what’s next for this 5 foot powerhouse.
