Older (and Wiser)

Lizzy McAlpine’s third studio album, Older (and Wiser), released on October 4, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in her musical journey, blending the raw vulnerability of her previous work with a more mature and polished sound. Having made a name for herself in the indie music scene with her introspective lyrics and unique vocal style, McAlpine’s latest project captures her growth as both an artist and a person. The album reflects the experiences and lessons she has gathered over the past few years, particularly since her rise to fame after the release of her second album, Five Seconds Flat (2022).

Older (and Wiser) showcases a blend of indie pop, folk, and jazz influences, but McAlpine experiments more with sonic textures, incorporating elements of R&B and alternative rock. The album was co-produced by a roster of notable talents, including Ethan Gruska, Jeremy Most, Ryan Lerman, and Tony Berg, who helped craft the nuanced and emotionally charged soundscapes that accompany McAlpine’s confessional songwriting. The production is rich and layered, featuring complex arrangements that build on McAlpine’s signature acoustic base with lush instrumentation, including electric guitar, flugelhorn, and French horn.

Thematically, Older (and Wiser) is a reflection on the passage of time, personal growth, and the inevitable struggles that come with becoming more self-aware. McAlpine grapples with the highs and lows of adulthood, exploring relationships, heartbreak, and the bittersweet nature of change. The title track, “Older,” serves as the emotional centerpiece of the album. It reflects on the difficulties of growing up and coming to terms with past mistakes while also embracing the wisdom gained through those experiences. The lyrics are poignant and reflective, revealing McAlpine’s evolving perspective on life.

Other standout tracks include “The Elevator,” which opens the album with a haunting piano melody, setting a melancholic yet introspective tone. “Like It Tends to Do” and “Movie Star” showcase McAlpine’s ability to create deeply personal narratives, both lyrically and sonically. “Drunk, Running” introduces an uptempo, jazz-inflected groove, highlighting her versatility as a songwriter. Meanwhile, “Broken Glass” is a heart-wrenching ballad that pairs stripped-back acoustic guitar with McAlpine’s emotionally charged vocals, emphasizing her lyrical depth and raw vulnerability.

The production credits on Older (and Wiser) are a testament to the collaborative nature of the album. Accomplished musicians such as Ryan Richter, Aaron Sterling, and Pino Palladino contributed their talents to the project, adding depth and dynamism to the sound. McAlpine herself took on production and engineering roles, further demonstrating her growing confidence and expertise in the technical aspects of music-making. The background vocals and harmonies provided by collaborators like Mason Stoops, Michael Libramento, and others help create a fuller, more immersive listening experience.

Lyrically, McAlpine continues to shine, with co-writers like Olivia Barton, Remy Moritt, and Taylor Mackall lending their voices to create songs that are both intimate and universally relatable. Tracks such as “You Forced Me To” and “Better Than This” dive deep into emotional turmoil, offering raw, cathartic moments that are sure to resonate with listeners. Meanwhile, songs like “Spring Into Summer” and “Soccer Practice” touch on themes of nostalgia and the inevitability of change, balancing the heavier topics with moments of levity.

Overall, Older (and Wiser) is a testament to Lizzy McAlpine’s evolution as an artist. The album combines her introspective songwriting with bold production choices, resulting in a project that feels both personal and expansive. It is a reflection of her journey, one filled with heartbreak, healing, and the quiet wisdom that comes with embracing life’s complexities.