Songwriter Tate McRae dropped “So Close To What” (deluxe edition) with five new songs added to her existing album that released in February of this year. The Grammy nominated pop star featured five new titles in the recent release.
These new songs included “TIT FOR TAT,” “NOBODY’S GIRL,” “ANYTHING BUT LOVE,” “TRYING ON SHOES,” and “HORSESHOE.” “TIT FOR TAT” took inspiration from her preceding breakup with her boyfriend and popular artist The Kid LAROI who had been the source of some more love based songs in the past. At first glance, it’s clear that these tracks come from a place of newfound anger, annoyance, and hurt—especially considering these are the only 5 titles written in all caps. Opposed to some of the other emotional and slow tracks in this album, these five set a different stage. These songs highlight that the love that McRae once felt for LAROI is never returning. In her song “TIT FOR TAT” she says “Thought I might love you again, I’ll see how I feel / Now that you’re acting like that, boy, I never will.” However, there is also a sense that these new tracks act as a gateway for her to heal and get past the things her ex-boyfriend put her through. In her song “TRYING ON SHOES” she sings, “Trying on shoes, putting on glitter / Anything to make me a little less bitter.”
My personal favorite of the new additions is without a doubt “TIT FOR TAT” that was actually surprise released a little earlier that the others in September of this year. The song was released soon after the split of the two artists and more importantly right after LAROI released his own song in which he called her out. Out of all the new songs the rhythm and lyrics of this song show McRae raw and unhealed resentment. In the song she sings “I was nothing but respectful, and you know that / Why you changing up the narrative to write?” This is a hint towards the idea that after their break up, her ex changed the story to make it look like McRae was in the wrong. “I’m not that big of a Tate McRae fan, but “TIT FOR TAT” is a really good song. I listen to it in the car, and it feels genuine.
As a strong and long time Tate McRae fan, I had absolutely no notes for this album. As a writer that has always written according to the phase of life she was experiencing, this seems right on track. Additionally, as someone who has listened to McRae since she sung while playing on a piano, her growth leaves me astonished.
However, to some who prefer McRae’s more emotional and heartfelt songs, these songs might not become favorites for you. Compared to others, these ones definitely show an angry side to her sadness.
Overall, these new tracks can be enjoyed regardless of the events taking place in your life. Even if there isn’t currently something specific you can relate to in these songs, the beat alone is enough to have anyone dancing along to the music. Now more than ever, I can’t wait for the chance to see McRae perform in person so that I could sing along to “TIT FOR TAT” with one of my favorite artists.
