Written Avani Goswami
Romance by Camila Cabello is an album full of songs that stick true to the title: they are all about the feeling of falling deeply in love. After leaving Fifth Harmony and releasing her breakout solo album, Camila, she has never been hesitant to try new sounds and stay vulnerable with her lyrics. Romance reflects this, through pop and R&B influenced tracks, often staying true to her Latin heritage.
After listening, it’s clear that “Senorita” featuring Shawn Mendes may be the worst song on the album. Not to say it isn’t catchy—it is one of 2019’s biggest songs—but this goes to show that her other, less popular, tracks reflect more of who she is and give a better sense of what she’s capable of.
The album opens with one of her strongest singles, “Shameless.” It sounds a bit darker than some of the others, with enticing guitar riffs and a hook that sticks in your head. Some of the other fiercer songs on the album include “Cry For Me,” with an edgy, unexpected sound, and “My Oh My” featuring DaBaby, which is an almost haunting bop. Her more upbeat moments are where she truly succeeds on this album; they’re exciting and replayable.
Most of the 14 songs are fairly good, albeit a bit forgettable, like “Should’ve Said It.” Her ballads, like “Dream of You” or “Used to This,” feel very vulnerable but slightly repetitive. Cabello’s vocal talent shines on “This Love,” and it’s hard to deny her skill, but the best sentimental song on the album is “First Man.” The song is addressed to her father, introducing her partner and detailing her future wedding. It’s one of the songs that could actually bring tears to listeners’ eyes.
Overall, Romance is a compelling album that still leaves a bit to be desired. Her lyrics are open, like “The stretch marks all around my thighs/kiss em’ till I change my mind” in “Easy,” and she takes risks experimenting with different sounds. Some songs feel a bit more authentic than others, and a few feel unique, like “Living Proof.” Even if I find myself missing “Havana,” it feels as though Camila Cabello has grown more into herself and her identity, and the album is a fun listen, especially for pop fans.
