UNDERDRESSED AT THE SYMPHONY: ALBUM REVIEW

Faye Webster's fifth album offers a glimpse into the inner workings of her mind. With her honest and raw lyrics and beautiful instrumentals, there's clear more to Webster than meets the eye. Her musical experimentation provides a thoroughly enjoyable experience, no matter what one is searching for. 

Written by Briana Williams

Photo courtesy of Secretly Canadian

Faye Webster's latest album marks a milestone in her evolving musical journey. At 27, the Atlanta-born musician continues to push boundaries with her innovative blend of indie-pop and soul, delivering a record that captivates and mesmerizes. Underdressed at the Symphony exemplifies a remarkable fusion of classical and contemporary elements, creating a distinctive soundscape.

Opening with Thinking About You," Webster sets a somewhat desperate tone. The repetition of the phrase, "I'm thinking about you," (Webster sings this line over a dozen times) demonstrates this person's hold in Webster's mind. In a way, Webster is desperate not to think about this person. Her effortlessly smooth vocals, paired with lush orchestral arrangements and gentle guitar strumming, create an enjoyable experience for listeners of all genres. This combination of old-world sophistication and modern minimalism highlights her ability to experiment while maintaining a unique sound.

The integration of classical instrumentation into indie-pop is a notable feature of Underdressed . The title track showcases Webster's seamless fusion of string arrangements with her laid-back vocal style, offering an elegant and grounded cinematic experience.

Lyrically, Webster delves deeper into themes of vulnerability and introspection. Tracks like "But Not Kiss" and "eBay Purchase History" reveal personal reflections, showcasing a maturity in her songwriting that provides a new, resonant perspective. In "But Not Kiss," Webster sings, "I hope you're okay, but I won't ask." Webster cares about this person, but is self-aware enough to know not to intrude.

One standout track, "Ttttime," features an ethereal quality in Webster's voice. The rich orchestral textures and confessional lyrics create a mesmerizing atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression long after the song ends.

While the album includes quieter moments, it also surprises with bursts of sonic energy. Songs like "But Not Kiss" and "Lego Ring" introduce unexpected tempo changes and dynamic shifts, demonstrating Webster's ability to maintain interest while showcasing her unique sound. Webster's collaboration with popular rapper Lil Yachty in "Lego Ring" further showcases her versatility and willingness to experiment with her music. 

Moreover, her continuous use of classical instrumentation throughout the album is a rare sight in the alternative genre that Webster is typically classed into. Though the album title mentions a symphony, Webster truly takes her love of classical music to heart and is not afraid to step outside of the box the music world has tried to put her into. 

Underdressed at the Symphony is a testament to Faye Webster's artistic growth. The album offers a thoroughly unexpected yet enjoyable listening experience, providing longtime fans and new listeners with a captivating introduction to her evolving artistry. Webster's subtle and sophisticated approach stands out as a refreshing and compelling force in a music landscape often dominated by the flashy and immediate.