Kiss cover

Kiss

Carly Rae Jepsen · 2012

45 min · 13 tracks · folk music

An effervescent pop collection that marries infectious melodies with a playful exploration of youthful romance and heartbreak.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Call Me Maybe Start here — This track not only launched Jepsen into global stardom but also exemplifies the catchy pop hooks and relatable themes that define the album.
  • →
    Good Time — A collaboration with Owl City, this upbeat anthem encapsulates the carefree spirit of summer, further establishing Jepsen's knack for creating infectious dance-pop hits.
  • →
    Tonight I’m Getting Over You — This track delivers an empowering message of moving on from heartbreak, showcasing Jepsen’s ability to blend vulnerability with upbeat production.

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 showcases catchy melodies and solid production but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a consistent upbeat tempo, while the second half introduces slower tracks that create a contrast.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response sections, enhancing the pop sensibility.
  • The production employs bright synths and danceable beats, with a notable use of handclaps and electronic elements throughout.
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 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • upbeat anthems for celebrations
  • catchy choruses for sing-alongs
  • steady flow for road trips
  • youthful exuberance and fun
  • feel-good vibes for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking deep, introspective themes
  • prefer slow, moody atmospheres

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established her reputation post 'Call Me Maybe', solidifying her place in pop.
Themes
summer romance· viral pop culture· teenage heartbreak
Career context
Kiss is Carly Rae Jepsen's second studio album, released following the worldwide success of her breakout single 'Call Me Maybe' in 2011. This album solidified her reputation as a significant pop artist, showcasing her transition from indie artist to mainstream pop sensation.
Stylistic neighbors
Charli XCX· Robyn· Tove Lo

Tracklist

  • 1 Tiny Little Bows 3:21
  • 2 This Kiss 3:50
  • 3 Call Me Maybe Start here 3:13
  • 4 Curiosity 3:35
  • 5 Good Time 3:26
  • 6 More Than a Memory 4:03
  • 7 Turn Me Up 3:46
  • 8 Hurt So Good 3:11
  • 9 Beautiful 3:18
  • 10 Tonight I’m Getting Over You 3:39
  • 11 Guitar String / Wedding Ring 3:27
  • 12 Your Heart Is a Muscle 3:50
  • 13 I Know You Have a Girlfriend 3:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata