4EVER - Clairo

Clairo's latest single, "4EVER" was released via Clairo's YouTube channel on April 27th, but considering the recent release of her debut Ep, diary 001, it is only fitting to discuss arguably the most expansive effort to come from the Clairo cannon. Clairo's journey from YouTube notoriety to emerging pop star is nothing short of remarkable given the circumstances that has embodied Clairo as an artist: individualism. Clairo has written, produced and developed most if not all of her songs from her bedroom using beats from her laptop and the odd acoustic guitar, all of which amalgamates into an extremely expressive and personal collection of tunes paralleling the traditional format of a diary.

"4EVER" is another transparent song about Clairo's involvement or fantasies with boys, but on a larger and more committed level, "Am I going to feel this way forever/Are you going to be around for me to count on?" The song "Flaming Hot Cheetos," another track off diary 001, that is both personal and about her intimate relationships differs not just for the fact that the song is taking place in the now, but the production quality is obviously less pronounced.One can imagine that with "4EVER" Clairo either downloaded a more extensive program on her computer or was given a more professional avenue within a studio; the 808's sounding clearer and more pronounced. As a bedroom popstar, particularly one invested in the synthesizer sound, high production quality may seem taboo or possibly as an indication of "selling out." Fortunately, this is not the case as Clairo is still being Clairo and the sound echoing from the track still has her personality ingrained in its facets.

With this sonic improvement, and the fact that Clairo's music is directed in a synth-pop direction, "4EVER" becomes exciting for her fans. Clairo is expanding without changing who she is, and is able to still be evocative but with a cooler and sleeker sound. "Pretty Girl," was arguably one of the best songs of 2017 in its feminist angle: the way it was written and produced showed the simplicity and subtle ways in which women are objectified. "Pretty Girl" showed the maturity and brilliance that  Clairo possesses in her song writing ability, and "4EVER" is another indication.

While not speaking of something as progressive as objectification, "4EVER" does tackle the palpable themes and notions of a relationship. The complications, "You call me wondering why I changed or why I don't look the same," the hesitations "Am I gonna feel this way forever," and the overall astounding feeling of love and attachment one has for each other "I knew I'd never let you get away." What is great about "4EVER" is the fact that there is not an extreme effervescent or ebullient notion to this song, or the fact that it is not a love song but a song about true relationships and that surrounds the reality of what is perceived in a long and loving relationship.

"4EVER" has seemingly been one of the best pop releases thus far and indicative of Clairo's increasing aptitude as an artist. Diary 001 may have left more to be offered but there's no questioning Clairo's talent, and as along as Clairo consistently remains Clairo we can hear more songs that turn out to be arguably each year's best.