Exes cover

Exes

Tate McRae · 2023

4 min · 2 tracks · pop music

A blend of introspective lyrics and upbeat rhythms that captures the complexities of modern relationships.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    exes — The titular track encapsulates the essence of the album, blending catchy melodies with candid observations about past relationships, highlighting McRae's lyrical maturity.
  • →
    greedy — This track showcases a more playful side of McRae's artistry, combining sharp lyrics with an infectious beat that invites listeners to dance while exploring themes of desire.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album combines catchy production with relatable themes but lacks significant depth or innovation.

What we noticed

  • The lead track 'exes' features a steady beat with layered synths, creating an upbeat yet reflective atmosphere.
  • The second track 'greedy' shifts to a more dance-oriented rhythm while maintaining the introspective lyrical theme.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Marks a significant transition in McRae's career as a prominent pop figure.
Themes
modern heartbreak· dance floor desire· candid relationship reflections
Career context
Tate McRae's 'Exes' marks her first major release since her breakthrough EP 'Too Young to Be Sad' in 2021. As she transitions from a rising star to a prominent figure in pop music, this album reflects her artistic evolution and growing confidence in songwriting.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • exes

    The bridge shifts perspective, directly addressing an ex-partner and reflecting on shared memories.

    This moment introduces vulnerability by breaking away from third-person narration, making the emotional impact more immediate and personal.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 exes 2:39
  • 2 greedy 2:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata