My time at university is ending, with a winter graduation date looming over my head. Sometimes, I wish I had more time for a college experience filled with parties, beach days, and all-nighters. One album that encapsulates this feeling of being a free spirit is Just Because, Claire Rosinkranz’s first album. Known for “Backyard Boy,” with 246 million streams on Spotify, 19-year-old Rosinkranz brings listeners on an emotional rollercoaster through different parts of her brain. Let’s take a look at some of her songs together!
“Sad in Hawaii”
I noticed that most of her songs tend to have an upbeat, happy melody, no matter the topic. This song was no exception. The song is about how something that may look perfect on the outside may not be positive in actuality. Rosinkranz revealed in a press interview that she went through an intense situation in Hawaii where she got sexually assaulted. She noted her emotional connection to the song, which helped her process something difficult. Writing several of her songs in the studio brought her more peace. She hopes that people can find comfort in the music.
“Swinging at the Stars”
I love driving along the coast with the windows down; this song evoked that feeling. One of the lyrics I wanted to highlight is “Wanna be tired when I get to my grave” because of its relatability. My current mindset matches this song as I finish college. The midnight drives and parties may take all my energy, but at least I got to experience it while I was young. Rosinkranz emphasized that “Swinging at the Stars” is about the “abundance of feeling alive,” which she perfectly captured. She thinks this song will be a fan favorite.
We’re capable of feeling all these emotions. I put myself in situations where I get to be fully alive and conscious.”
Claire Rosinkranz
“Banksy”
I wanted to highlight the harmony during the chorus of this song. Rosinkranz’s voice is beautiful, and listeners can feel the emotion behind it. As the lyrics suggest, “Banksy” is about loneliness and being lost in one’s thoughts. Ironically, the singer-songwriter didn’t feel lonely when she wrote it, but it helped her through her time in Hawaii. Even though Rosinkranz’s songs are about the personal experiences of her or her friends, she captures these universal feelings that make her discography more impactful. Many people can connect with wanting to sit around all day because they have no energy to do anything else.
“Polarized”
On universal feelings, “Polarized” was about a friend falling out. Rosinkranz had never gone through a falling out with a friend before and didn’t know how to process it. She tells the story using vivid imagery over a smooth backtrack and softly confident vocals. Some artists tend to be literal with their lyrics, but I love how Rosinkranz paints a picture with symbolism and metaphors. One example of this is her line, “Your circles on my squares, our stories don’t compare,” which is one of my favorites. She brings a refreshing perspective of the age-old process of growing up within her work.
I don’t know how to function without [music]. It is my processing system.”
Claire Rosinkranz
“Jupiter”
To end this list, I wanted to talk about “Jupiter,” the second to last track on the album. The song is about being overstimulated but numb at the same time. She wants someone to “take [her] to Jupiter” to escape daily stresses. This song is the perfect indie pop for long drives in the sun. I enjoyed the mellow drumbeat the song had and the audio that goes from one ear to the other. It creates this unique effect that makes it seem like you’re in the same room as her. Overall, I love the vibes of this album and am super excited for her upcoming tour.
Final Thoughts
I already liked Rosinkranz’s singles like “Backyard Boy” and “Frankenstein,” but this album gave me even more favorites. You can check out her whole album on any streaming platform, but I will link the Spotify playlist below. You can sign up for presale tickets here to see her on tour. I hope to see you there!
