Listening to Sling is like stumbling upon a tranquil spot in the woods, each fruitful corner beckoning you to sit and stir over your thoughts, alone and undisturbed. In what feels like a much-needed pause from reality, Clairo’s new album blooms with insight, as she reflects on her mental health, the music industry, and ruminates over the possibilities of parenthood. In some moments, Sling almost feels like slow dancing with an older version of yourself, swaying alongside the person you’re potentially on the brink of becoming.
Each track is soothing in its own way. “Zinnias” cheerfully strolls down a path of blissful familial life, whilst Reaper more tenderly reveals what these prospects could hold. In “Blouse,” Clairo confronts us with a painful question: “Why do I tell you how I feel, when you’re too busy looking down my blouse?” She states that this song is about being sexualised in a work setting, and the vulnerability of her voice ripples throughout the whole track. In “Sling,” there are orchestral-like moments that intensify its storytelling, as if the album is playing beneath the stage of a musical’s closing night. The curtains draw gently on the last track, “Management,” which seems reflective, but also curious and forward-thinking. It’s a complete symphony of emotions.
The vocals on Sling are almost inward sounding, as if Clairo is speaking to herself. In doing so, she is able to pull you into her introspections, perhaps leaving you with more questions than answers, but with an added level of insight that she instills so seamlessly.
“A calm and serene soundscape to lean into.”
