Canadian sensation Tate McRae has returned with her highly anticipated sophomore album, “THINK LATER.” This 14-track collection serves as a musical journey through tales of heartbreak and self-discovery, showcasing McRae’s growth as an artist since her debut album, “i used to think i could fly.” Collaborating with superstar Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, known for his work with Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, McRae has honed her vocals and production, staying true to her unique style while elevating her musical talent. The result is an album that moves away from the sheltered approach of her previous work, embracing a more confident and self-motivated voice that spreads throughout “THINK LATER.”
The album opens with the powerful track “cut my hair,” a metaphorical expression of moving forward and shedding the past after a stressful relationship. McRae cleverly uses the act of cutting hair to symbolize personal growth and self-improvement, setting the tone for the emotional journey that follows. The lead single, “greedy,” is a standout track that topped the charts and gained popularity on TikTok. With its upbeat and catchy tune, McRae confidently addresses possible dates, urging them to stop being self-absorbed. She playfully declares that if she were in their shoes, she’d want to date herself too, establishing a bold and playful aura.
“run for the hills” explores the dangerous allure of a toxic relationship, with McRae expressing her obsession and internal conflict. The struggle to break free from a controlling partner is palpable as she sings, “Don’t tease me / And keep me around like it’s easy / When you know deep down that it’s / Never gon’ ever be more than just something that’s messing me up.” In “hurt my feelings,” McRae delves into the realm of forbidden desire, fantasizing about someone already in a committed relationship. The lyrics reveal her longing and willingness to pursue a relationship despite the obstacles, adding a layer of complexity to the album’s narrative.
As the album progresses, tracks like “grave” and “stay done” explore the challenges of fixing flaws in a relationship and the thin line between love and hate. “exes,” the second single, showcases McRae’s unapologetic nature, with a recurring and catchy line emphasizing her lack of predictability. “we’re not alike” exposes the pain of betrayal by a supposed best friend, with a rock production intensifying the emotional impact. McRae scolds her friend for breaking the “girl code” of loyalty, revealing the heartbreak of deceit from someone she trusted.
“calgary” provides a personal reflection on McRae’s hometown experiences, including struggles with substance abuse and challenges as a teen. The track captures the essence of returning home, with McRae singing, “I’m twenty but I still feel like fifteen / Same fears, same dreams,” underscoring the emotional weight of her journey. “THINK LATER” continues with “messier,” exploring the complicated yet endearing aspects of a relationship. The title track encourages living in the moment and dealing with consequences afterward, narrating a night in Boston filled with thrills and impulsivity.
As the album nears its close, “guilty conscience” delivers a powerful narrative of recklessness and blind devotion, while “want that too” reflects on the pain of betrayal in the music industry. Closing out the album is “plastic palm trees,” a reflective piece that looks back on a breakup with an unfaithful partner, expressing the complexity of emotions and the journey of healing.
In its entirety, “THINK LATER” is a great exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Each track serves as a chapter in Tate McRae’s emotional journey, inviting listeners to resonate with the highs and lows of relationships. The album is a testament to McRae’s artistic growth, showcasing her ability to capture the complexity of emotions through captivating melodies and poignant lyrics.
