Faye Webster evaluates love through the lens of loss. Lost in endless daydreams, she loses track of time. Reminiscing over an ex, she loses her sense of self. In her 2019 song “What Used To Be Mine,” she mourns not just a past lover, but also the places that defined their relationship. Known for capturing romance as a force that shapes our everyday lives, the Atlanta singer-songwriter’s music has a laid-back quality that makes it perfect for getting lost in your thoughts.
On her fifth studio album, Underdressed at the Symphony, Webster excels in conveying these introspective thoughts. With repeated vocal melodies in songs like “Thinking About You,” she delves into the complexities of longing and reminiscence. The album’s opening track, “Thinking About You,” sets the tone for the record by highlighting the beauty in life’s mundane moments. Through tracks like “But Not Kiss” and “Lifetime,” Webster navigates the pain of heartbreak and the longing for lasting love in a poignant and introspective manner.
Embracing transformation and self-discovery, Webster navigates change in songs like “Wanna Quit All The Time.” The album’s music reflects a sense of faith in the inevitability of progress, offering moments of yacht-rock breeziness that evoke contentment. The slow pace of growth in Webster’s journey adds to the album’s relatable charm, as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery.
As the album progresses, Webster explores themes of loss, reflection, and hope. In the reflective title track, she contemplates her choices and those of her ex, recognizing the passage of time as a constant presence in her life. Despite the uncertainties and complexities of love and loss, Webster finds solace in waiting and hoping for something new.
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