After years of navigating the complex post-Disney-star pop landscape, Sabrina Carpenter achieved significant success with her sixth album, Short n’ Sweet. Released last year, this album catapulted her into mainstream pop culture, buoyed by hit singles like “Espresso,” “Please Please Please,” and “Taste.” These catchy, well-crafted tracks not only resonated with fans but also garnered strong recognition at the Grammys. Following her triumphant album, Carpenter embarked on a massive global arena tour and managed to squeeze in the recording of her highly anticipated follow-up album, Man’s Best Friend.
In her latest work, Man’s Best Friend, Carpenter collaborates once again with renowned producers Jack Antonoff, John Ryan, and songwriter Amy Allen. This album establishes Carpenter as a modern-day Mae West—an alluring figure who possesses a playful self-awareness. While Short n’ Sweet showcased her irresistible charm, Man’s Best Friend introduces a layer of emotional complexity, reflecting themes of sadness and frustration. The album delves into her experiences with men who are disinterested, rude, or simply annoying, adding depth to her previously established self-confidence.
Before its release, Man’s Best Friend already sparked considerable media attention, thanks to its provocative cover art featuring Carpenter in a suggestive pose. This visual, combined with the album title, led some fans to interpret the album literally. However, a closer listen reveals that the songs, such as “My Man on Willpower” and “We Almost Broke Up Again,” address Carpenter’s struggles with emotionally manipulative relationships, cleverly likening her experiences to being treated like a pet.
Carpenter’s appreciation for classic pop shines through in Man’s Best Friend. One notable influence is ABBA, as she draws inspiration from their vibrant sound of the '70s and '80s. For instance, the track “We Almost Broke Up Again Last Night” evokes the spirit of ABBA’s “I’ve Been Waiting For You,” while “Nobody’s Son” serves as a love letter to Swedish pop, echoing classics like “The Sign” by Ace of Base. The album’s closing track, “Goodbye,” channels the upbeat energy of ABBA’s “Voulez-Vous,” showcasing Carpenter's knack for blending modern pop with nostalgic elements.
What sets Man’s Best Friend apart from Carpenter’s previous works is its use of live instruments. While tracks like “When Did You Get So Hot?” and “House Tour” incorporate synths and programmed drums, many songs feature authentic instrumentation. Collaborating with Antonoff, who enlisted members of Bleachers, and acclaimed musicians like Greg Leisz, Carpenter has crafted an album that stands out in the current pop landscape for its distinct sound and authentic feel.
Fans hoping for a revealing narrative about Carpenter’s past relationship with actor Barry Keoghan may find themselves disappointed. The album’s lyrics are intentionally vague, inviting listeners to interpret the meanings for themselves. For instance, a line in “Go-Go Juice” that seemingly references “the one that rhymes with ‘villain’” has sparked speculation, but it lacks definitive ties to any individual. Nevertheless, Man’s Best Friend is filled with relatable insights about heartbreak and relationships, featuring memorable lines that resonate with anyone who has navigated the complexities of love.
Throughout Man’s Best Friend, Carpenter’s wit shines in her lyrics. Here are some standout one-liners that exemplify her clever songwriting:
“Just thought that he eventually would cave in, reach out/But no siree, he discovered self-control” (“Nobody’s Son”)“Abstinence is just a state of mind” (“Never Getting Laid”)“Now I’m at the prospect convention” (“When Did You Get Hot?”)“Got a soft spot for a bev’ and a boy that’s fruity” (“Go-Go Juice”)“Yeah, I spent a little fortune on the waxed floors/We can be a little reckless ’cause it’s insured” (“House Tour”)In conclusion, Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend represents a significant evolution in her musical journey, blending clever lyrics, diverse influences, and authentic instrumentation. As she continues to redefine her place in the pop music landscape, fans can look forward to what this talented artist will create next.
