On Faye Webster’s fifth full-length record, Underdressed at the Symphony, the soft rock singer and songwriter delivers her newest collection of lush, charming tracks that mostly stick to the usual game plan but meander in a few intriguing new sonic directions as well.
Webster’s claim to indie fame in a catalog that now spans over a decade is undoubtedly the combination of the whimsical approach she takes to singing and the glowing fusions of indie folk, pop and warm alternative country with pretty, easily-pleasing vocals. Underdressed at the Symphony invites listeners into Webster’s distinctive musical blend of bedroom pop warmth, mellow rock riffs, orchestral elevations and jazz-inspired folk. It also comfortably displays her simple yet thoughtful writing, with a lyrical emphasis on the significance of the minute details of daily life and their bittersweet nature.
Webster embraces song structures featuring repeated, drawn-out choruses and instrumental segments that sometimes push lyrical abundance to the backseat and makes songs feel longer than they actually are. This can test the patience of listeners, but allows the dreamy, rich arrangements to step to the forefront. Webster uses this sonic security blanket to envelop listeners into the thematic focus of hiding or obscuring the self.
It’s vaguely a breakup album, which further supports the cloaking of the sharp songwriting that has largely been the selling point for much of her other work, like 2019’s Atlanta Millionaires Club and 2022’s Car Therapy Sessions EP. Seeking comfort from the feeling of being exposed after a breakup, she finds peace singing in shadow.
The opening track, “Thinking About You,” is the lengthiest of the track list but the shallowest in its lyrics. Nevertheless, the subtle progression of the latter half of the track, directed by the repeated title phrase, makes for a timeless jam.
“But Not Kiss” is probably the nearest Webster gets to fully discussing her relationship, honestly describing the conflicted feeling that comes with the end of a love. The contradiction of “I wanna sleep in your arms / but not kiss” mirrors the struggle between desiring someone but not wanting to interfere with their life.
“Wanna Quit All The Time” is a vulnerable track where she opens up about her distaste for fame. “Lego Ring” is the impressively cohesive, silky collaboration between Webster and long-time friend Lil Yachty, who adds some lively processed vocals to a track that brings fun to an otherwise somber record.
“Feeling Good Today” has been a significant topic of discussion among critics, with Webster utilizing autotune to add a flare to the flow of the album. While feeling a bit out of place, it serves as a valuable sample of a fresh sound that Webster seems quite comfortable indulging in.
“Lifetime” is a irresistibly calming dabble in lounge music, and “He Loves Me Yeah!” is a truly infectious indie rock jam with a prominent bass tone that separates it from the rest of the track list. It transitions to “eBay Purchase History,” a poetically written song of self-expression; the title track, which is arguably the most thoroughly written track on the record; and the closer, “Tttttime,” an infectious and catchy conclusion.
Underdressed at the Symphony is probably Faye Webster’s most lyrically dull album, seemingly encapsulating the title of the record. However, it remains a fulfilling experience in its ability to draw the listener in and comfort them, giving them an unexpected kick every once in a while.
The evident theme of repeating choruses, while sometimes being a bit drawn out, does not become overtly detrimental. Some songs fall short of a level of progression that could make them feel bigger and more significant, but this lack of intensity doesn’t take away from the subtle beauty of the project as a whole.
Rating: low 8/10
Released: March 1, 2024
Runtime: 10 songs, 36 min 49 sec
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