Nothing warms my heart in the colder months like a pleasant song, and Clairo’s “Lavender” is no exception. The bedroom pop artist released the surprise single exclusively to Bandcamp on Oct. 19., just in time for temperatures to drop dramatically. The song’s Bandcamp page states that proceeds from song sales will go to Doctors Without Borders. The link below this statement specifically references the aid the organization is providing to citizens living in Gaza. 

This release is slower than many of Clairo’s other hits while still maintaining her signature dream pop style. Her vocal delivery is higher-pitched and complements the soft guitar in a relaxing way. When I first listened to this track, I found myself entering a calmer state. The song’s flute parts are also beautiful and add to its tranquility.

Clairo’s lyricism in “Lavender” is straightforward in a comforting way. With a runtime of two minutes 35 seconds, it is relatively short and does not follow a traditional structure, with only an introduction, one verse and an outro. She utilizes this space to speak of a person she desires to be with again, presumably after a breakup or falling out. They made her feel safe in the past, and she desires that comfort despite any conflict. The longing for the person is palpable in the lyrics, especially in the middle of the verse:

“Once in a while /

I start to fall in love again /

Only been some time, and so /

I don’t know why I can’t let you go.”

Even through other relationships, she still seeks this person and the peace they provided. Clairo elicits a sense of nostalgia through both the lyricism and the static sound present in the background and overall production of the song. There is a tug between the grief of losing a sense of safety and remembrance of the past comfort, and for me it balances out to be pleasant as opposed to melancholic.

This song may not have complicated production or intense and ultra-specific lyricism, but it does not need that. Sometimes a piece’s simplicity benefits the art, and “Lavender” is a perfect example of that. Clairo packs a ton of genuine emotion into a tune that is both personal to her and meaningful to others. If you’re looking for comfort, this song is for you!