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Carlie Hanson, a 22-year-old pop artist known for her catchy, heartfelt pop and rock tracks, recently released her highly anticipated debut album, Tough Boy. After making waves since 2016 with singles that resonated with teenagers and young adults, the album marks a significant milestone in her career. Tough Boy captures a spectrum of raw emotions and personal experiences, delivered with Carlie’s signature blend of vulnerability and relatability.
The album opens with Off My Neck, a poignant portrayal of being stuck on someone from the past—whether a friend or a lover. The first verse sets a melancholic tone, reflecting the internal struggle of moving on, while the second verse shifts to a more accusatory perspective, highlighting how the other person failed to prioritize her feelings. With powerful lyrics like “Cut my head off my neck, just to forget,” the chorus is memorable but might not resonate with those who aren't navigating similar emotions.
This track delves into the intoxicating allure of unhealthy attraction. Featuring Deb Never, the song vividly captures the struggle of ignoring red flags simply because of an overwhelming desire for the other person. Lyrics such as “I love the taste of your toxic love, so waste me, I don’t wanna stop” add a passionate and compelling edge to this piece, perfectly suited to its emotional purpose.
As the album’s title track, Tough Boy explores the emotional armor people wear to appear strong and self-reliant. While the song exudes a soothing, laid-back vibe, its understated production may feel underwhelming for a centerpiece. Perhaps Carlie intended this track to feel warm and inviting, creating an atmosphere of comfort rather than grandeur.
This upbeat track highlights the excitement and curiosity of being captivated by someone new. At the same time, it reflects the bittersweet reality of relationships that fall apart despite their potential. The song grapples with the “could’ve been, should’ve been” moments, weaving an emotional narrative against an infectious rhythm.
One of the standout tracks, Girls in Line for the Bathroom, juxtaposes a simple yet profound idea: why can’t people be as kind to each other as strangers waiting in line? The composition isn’t a huge departure from Carlie’s previous works, but it remains enchanting. The catchy chorus and the warm, close-knit feeling make it a perfect companion for cozy weather and reflective moods.
This nostalgic track evokes the feeling of flipping through an old photo album. It reflects on a person from the past who once held a deep emotional influence. Carlie conveys the bittersweet process of reminiscing while grappling with lingering emotions tied to this connection.
In Fuck Your Labels, Carlie makes a bold statement, rejecting societal and metaphorical labels. Whether addressing societal stereotypes or the constraints imposed by the music industry, the track is a defiant anthem of individuality. Its rebellious tone resonates with her independent journey, reinforcing her refusal to conform to expectations.
A fan-favorite on social media, Gucci Knife uses the titular object as a metaphor for heartbreak. The track's emotionally charged composition and passionate hook perfectly capture the pain of a breakup. With lyrics like “She took my heart with a Gucci knife, yeah, she cut me right out of her life,” and MASN’s strong feature, this collaboration delivers an unforgettable and heartfelt experience.
A serene, drumless track, Minnesota features clean guitar melodies and soft ambiance, creating a soothing, intimate soundscape. It provides a much-needed moment of respite in the album, enveloping listeners in a comforting embrace.
The emotionally resonant Fake Smile recounts the story of a girl struggling to navigate life while hiding her pain behind a facade. Through this track, Carlie brings her story to life, capturing the sense of being stuck while striving to move forward. The thoughtful composition and well-paired beat elevate the song’s poignant message.
This uplifting track celebrates the imperfections of a relationship, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and love despite flaws. The upbeat guitar-driven melody adds a hopeful, energetic tone, making it one of the more optimistic songs on the album.
The closing track, Come Back Around, reflects on the changes in a relationship and the longing for a person’s former self. While emotionally evocative, the composition feels slightly incomplete, leaving the listener yearning for a more polished resolution.
Tough Boy is an impressive debut that showcases Carlie Hanson’s ability to channel genuine emotions into her music. While the album captures a wide range of relatable experiences, some tracks feel rushed in their execution. Nonetheless, it’s a heartfelt and memorable work that solidifies Carlie’s place in the pop and indie music landscape.
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