Conan Gray delivers a career-defining performance on his fourth studio album, ‘Wishbone’. Reuniting with acclaimed producer Dan Nigro, Gray has crafted his most introspective and vocally impressive project to date. The 12-track album delves into the complexities of love with a newfound maturity, marking a significant milestone as the first record to which Gray owns the master rights.
The album opens with ‘Actor,’ a guitar-led track that reflects on authenticity after a failed relationship and sets the narrative stage for the project. Lead single ‘This Song’ captures a sense of profound yearning through its lush, string-driven bedroom pop arrangement, reminiscent of the Goo Goo Dolls’ classic ‘Iris’. The track was released alongside a music video featuring Gray’s close friend, Corey Fogelmanis.
A clear standout, ‘My World,’ finds Gray reflecting on a relationship that once consumed him. While acknowledging the past toxicity, the track evolves into an anthem of acceptance and self-prioritization, underscored by the lyrics, “it’s my world and it’s my life / I’ll kiss them if I might like / I don’t have you in mind.” Its bridge features a spoken-word delivery over a propulsive beat—a signature of Nigro’s production style, also heard on tracks by Chappell Roan and Olivia Rodrigo.
Gray showcases raw vulnerability on ‘Nauseous,’ where he confronts his attachment issues and past romantic traumas with lyrics like, “your love is a threat and I’m nauseous / it scares me to death how I want it.” Elsewhere, ‘Romeo’ channels a nostalgic 2000s energy reminiscent of Wheatus’ ‘Teenage Dirtbag,’ while ‘Vodka Cranberry’ highlights Gray’s velvety vocals and smooth vibrato.
‘Wishbone’ stands as a confident and polished pop statement, pairing Gray’s impressive vocal prowess with sleek, sophisticated production. In a pop landscape currently dominated by female artists, Conan Gray’s return is a welcome and refreshing arrival.
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