At just five feet tall, petite powerhouse Sabrina Carpenter launched her sixth studio album “Short n Sweet” on August 23, a record that marks her first #1 on the Billboard 200. With a combination of seductive vocals, biting lyrics, and just a touch of country twang, the 25-year-old artist is stirring the pot and leaving us hungry for more tea– and tunes. Check out my ratings for each track!
Taste (8/10)
We kick things off with “Taste,” a clever opener that’s ironic in all the right ways. Apparently, Sabrina’s been spotted wearing her ex’s (Shawn Mendes’s) clothes, which only adds a layer of intrigue. The song is rich with sultry vibes, making it a standout start to the album.
Please Please Please (5/10)
Things take a weird turn with “Please Please Please,” where she’s pleading with her current boyfriend, Barry Keoghan, not to embarrass her. A strange concept, sure, but even more interesting considering Barry’s… legal troubles just two months before the song dropped (Keoghan was arrested in April for public intoxication). However, the touch of country vocals makes it a notable track… just not my personal favorite.
Good Graces (9/10)
This is where the album really hits its stride. “Good Graces” is easily one of the best tracks, with a catchy hook paired with a little dose of “I don’t give a f*** about you.” No country in this one, just sweet synth and pure pop goodness.
Sharpest Tool (7/10)
Even Carpenter’s ethereal vocals can’t disguise the not-so-subtle shade “Sharpest Tool” throws at Shawn Mendes’s intelligence. Let’s just say, it’s not the kind of compliment anyone’s hoping for (especially from their ex). Shawn might want to skip this one, but I definitely won’t be.
Coincidence (4/10)
A guitar-based track that’s (surprise, surprise) also Shawn-related. While clever in its intellectual digs, the song feels repetitive and doesn’t add much to the conversation, both musically and thematically.
Bed Chem (7/10)
A break from Shawn and we’re back to Barry, with playful Shakespearean wordplay that keeps you guessing. The song combines dreamy atmospheric pop with just a twinge of R&B rhythms to tie it all together, marking it as a transitional track from the country rhythms of “Coincidence” to the upbeat tempo of “Espresso.”
Espresso (9/10)
With over a billion streams, “Espresso” is a certified hit. “I’m working late, cause I’m a singer” feels like a relatable anthem for the late-night crowd. As a coffee addict myself, this track is perfect for romanticizing your everyday life– and the tune is almost dangerously catchy.
Dumb & Poetic (10/10)
Carpenter takes it to the next level with “Dumb and Poetic.” She masterfully critiques the self-help wave of guys who take mushrooms and claim to suddenly gain “empathy.” The lyrics cut deep, with a sound reminiscent of pop-country star Kacey Musgraves tying it all together.
Slim Pickens (6/10)
Sliding back into country territory, “Slim Pickens” gives us more humor and sharp commentary. “A boy who’s nice that breathes” as the minimum standard, and the Grindr notification playing after “since the Lord forgot my gay awakening” is funny enough, but this track still doesn’t quite hit the same highs as the others.
Juno (6/10)
A tribute to Barry Keoghan, “Juno” shifts to bragging about wanting to get pregnant. While an *odd* topic choice, for sure, Carpenter delivers it with her signature confidence. While the song’s cleverness has a certain charm, in my opinion, it’s lacking compared to the other tracks.
Lie to Girls (7/10)
Rewind to the Shawn-Camila Cabello saga. (Note: Allegedly, Shawn cheated on Sabrina for his long-time on and off again girlfriend, Camila). This time, Carpenter is “stupid but clever,” fully aware of the lies but choosing to stay. The melodic, angelic vocals juxtapose the harsh reality she sings about, and the repetition of “girls will cry and lie” drives the message home.
Don’t Smile (9/10)
Closing out the album is “Don’t Smile,” a moody, R&B-infused track that brings everything full circle. Carpenter’s less sure of herself now, worrying she might fall back into old habits, questioning the boldness of her earlier songs. It’s reflective, raw, and real– a perfect finale.
My opinion? She may be short but she certainly packs a punch. And if you’re Shawn Mendes, maybe steer clear of the radio for a while, because this album is set to be the sweet treat to wrap up this summer.
