Exploring Vulnerability Through Laughter: Audrey Hobert’s Debut Album
Embracing the Clown Within
To be a clown is to embrace vulnerability, innocence, and foolishness. The saying, “The clown falls so we don’t have to,” encapsulates the essence of clowning—performing our fears and weaknesses, allowing us to laugh at them collectively. This naive perspective carries power; through exaggerated costuming and physical antics, clowns help us confront the awkward, uncomfortable, and tragic aspects of life. This theme resonates deeply in Audrey Hobert’s debut album, Who’s the Clown, where the Los Angeles-based writer and musician skillfully navigates the minutiae of dating and personal insecurities, falling on our behalf so that we can find solace in her experiences.
A Journey from Screenwriting to Songwriting
Hobert first garnered attention through her collaborative efforts with childhood friend Gracie Abrams, co-writing several tracks for Abrams’ 2024 album, The Secret of Us, including the hit single “That’s so True.” Initially, Hobert did not envision a career in songwriting; her academic background is in screenwriting, and she contributed to two seasons of her father’s Nickelodeon series, The Really Loud House. However, her songwriting journey took a turn after her work with Abrams led to a publishing deal, prompting her to explore the art of writing for herself and her close circle. Partnering with producer Ricky Gourmet, known for his collaboration on Finneas’ album For Cryin’ Out Loud!, Hobert began crafting the songs that would define her debut.
Musical Style and Influences
The sound of Who’s the Clown is a natural extension of the pop landscape Abrams occupies—characterized by verbose, conversational, and unfiltered lyrics. Hobert’s vocal delivery is as if she’s being compensated by the syllable, fitting complex phrases like “Not that it matters/But I’m breaking patterns/And getting so good at pilates” into the rhythm of the track “Sue Me.” On “Wet Hair,” she nearly loses the English language, cramming “over-thinker but it’s OK” into an impressively rapid cadence. This playful, chatty style evokes the pop music that shaped their generation—where fun and lightheartedness take precedence over glamour and seduction.
The Album’s Strengths and Weaknesses
While the album shines in its first half, the latter portion reveals some weaknesses as Hobert leans on specificity, which sometimes feels like a crutch. For instance, in “Chateau,” her grievances about mingling with industry elites at a Hollywood landmark can come off as unrelatable. In “Phoebe,” she compares her struggles with self-acceptance to the character from Friends, but fails to recognize that Phoebe’s journey ultimately leads to a loving relationship, suggesting a disconnect in her narrative. This highlights a theme of her growth; Hobert is still in the process of understanding her own story.
Humor as a Coping Mechanism
As a modern-day court jester, Hobert uses humor to explore the desperation that accompanies being human. Lines like “Sue me, I want to be wanted!” and “I like to touch people!” resonate with listeners, encouraging them to acknowledge desires often suppressed by societal norms. In “Bowling Alley,” she humorously captures the internal conflict between opting for a cozy night in versus attending a lively party, illustrating the extremes of her personality. When she transcends her personal details, Hobert transforms fleeting moments of anxiety into captivating pop, yet she sometimes retreats into familiar territory, relying on her life experiences to convey broader emotions.
Conclusion
In Who’s the Clown, Audrey Hobert invites listeners to find humor in the chaos of growing up. While she adeptly captures the essence of vulnerability and the awkwardness of navigating adulthood, there remain moments where she could benefit from further exploration of her narrative. Through her music, Hobert not only entertains but also encourages her audience to embrace their own imperfections. As she continues to grow as an artist, the potential for deeper storytelling and emotional resonance is undoubtedly within reach.
FAQs
Who is Audrey Hobert?
Audrey Hobert is a Los Angeles-based writer and musician known for her debut album Who’s the Clown and her work as a co-writer for Gracie Abrams.
What themes are explored in Who’s the Clown?
The album explores themes of vulnerability, dating, personal insecurities, and the awkwardness of growing up, all conveyed through humor and relatable storytelling.
How does Hobert’s background influence her music?
Hobert’s background in screenwriting and her experiences working with other artists shape her lyrical style, resulting in a conversational and playful approach to pop music.
What are some standout tracks on the album?
Standout tracks include “Sue Me” and “Bowling Alley,” which showcase Hobert’s knack for blending humor with relatable themes.
What can we expect from Audrey Hobert in the future?
As Hobert continues to evolve as an artist, listeners can anticipate more introspective storytelling and exploration of her journey through adulthood in her future work.
