Sabrina Carpenter has once again captured the world’s attention with her latest album “Short n’ Sweet,” showcasing her evolution from a beloved Disney Channel star to a renowned pop artist. While the album stands out with her infectious personality and lively songs, it occasionally falls flat due to a lack of originality, making it a mixed albeit enjoyable addition to her discography.
Carpenter’s journey to stardom is nothing short of impressive. Starting on YouTube, she quickly gained an audience with her singing performances. Her breakthrough came when she starred in the popular Disney Channel show “Girl Meets World,” alongside Rowan Blanchard.
Over the years, Carpenter has slowly transitioned from acting to music, collaborating with famous artists like Taylor Swift on the Eras Tour and performing at major events like Coachella and Governors Ball.
Her presence on social media and streaming platforms has solidified her as a pop sensation, making her one of the biggest breakout artists of 2024.
“Short n’ Sweet” begins with the vibrant track “Taste,” which has quickly become a fan favorite. Maddie Russell (’26) states, “I love the opening song” as Carpenter’s bubbly vocals and catchy chorus set the tone for the album. Her lead single “Espresso” has become a cultural phenomenon, surpassing over one billion streams worldwide. Despite its widespread popularity, some critics argue that it resembles Doja Cat’s “Say So.” Nevertheless, the song’s undeniable charm and beat have made it a hit.
The album’s next track, “Please, Please, Please,” is Carpenter’s first number one single and shows her ability to make a catchy pop song with heartfelt lyrics. The song’s infectious melody and production highlights her vocals and distinguishes it from the other tracks. Much of the album revolves around her experiences in relationships. Isabella Apfaltrer (’26) says, “I think the album is cute, and I love her reason for naming it,” as the title “Short ‘n Sweet” is a reference to how her shortest lived relationships have had the biggest impact on her.
Another highlight is “Sharpest Tool,” which combines thoughtful lyrics with a more techno-inspired sound, which helps show her versatility as an artist.
However, not all tracks on the album maintain this high standard. Songs like “Coincidence” and “Dumb & Poetic” seem to fall into predictable pop tropes and rely on familiar cliches and themes. These tracks sometimes overshadow the album’s stronger moments, making it feel almost uneven. Additionally, the album’s reliance on certain trendy sounds can make it seem less original.
Despite these flaws, “Short n’ Sweet” stands out in moments where Carpenter takes more creative risks. Tracks like “Slim Pickins” offer a glimpse into her ability to blend the country and pop genres, which adds more depth to the album. Her playful and self-aware lyrics in songs like “Juno” show her ability to balance humor with sincerity, which makes the album both more relatable and entertaining.
While “Short n’ Sweet” may not revolutionize pop music, it is a solid album that reflects Carpenter’s growth as an artist. Her humor and personality shine through, which make even the less memorable tracks enjoyable. As Carpenter continues to grow, it will be exciting to see where she goes next.
For now, “Short n’ Sweet” is a fun addition to Carpenters discography—and one that is sure to keep fans wanting more.
