Sabrina Carpenter: “Espresso”

GENRE: Pop/R&B
LABEL: Island
REVIEWED: April 29, 2024

Even though Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” dropped almost three weeks ago, it’s gearing up to be the definitive summer anthem. With today’s forecast hitting 82 degrees in New York, this song is in perfect sync with the season’s vibe.

“Espresso” is a masterclass in pop absurdity, and its offbeat charm is exactly what makes it so irresistible. The track’s playful, luxury nu-disco feel has hooked me—and judging by how often phrases like “That’s that me espresso” and “I’m working late/’Cause I’m a singer” are popping up, it’s also captivated a lot of others.

What makes “Espresso” stand out is its unapologetic quirkiness. Phrases like “That’s that me espresso” and “I Mountain Dew it for ya” might sound nonsensical, but they work brilliantly, evoking a sense of fun over literal meaning. Carpenter’s delivery of lines like “Walked in and dream-came-trued it for ya” shows a knack for catchy, memorable lyrics that most pop songwriters can only aspire to.

The production by Julian Bunetta, known for his work with One Direction, brings to mind a sun-drenched, reggae-infused twist on Carly Simon’s 1982 club hit “Why,” featuring Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic. “Espresso” carries the same uplifting energy, and Carpenter’s ability to infuse her own style into this disco revival is refreshing. Though the genre’s resurgence might feel a bit overdone, Carpenter’s unique flair and infectious vibe could make “Espresso” a standout hit for yet another summer.