When Lizzy McAlpine released her third studio album Older in March of 2024, it was apparent that the project showcases a new level of vulnerability for her music. Her previous albums, 2020’s Give Me A Minute and 2021’s Five Seconds Flat, knocked on the door of this artistic honesty, but Older kicked that door down. With the release of Older (and Wiser), a deluxe version of this emotional masterclass, McAlpine knocks that door off the hinges.
McAlpine and company recorded the five additional tracks of Older (and Wiser) at Electric Lady Studios in New York City during an off week of her international headline tour. The 24-year-old singer-songwriter also produced the project along with guitarist and producer Mason Stoops. During production, Stoops admired the control McAlpine took when constructing this deluxe album.
“She has mastered the ability to guide the band to match her musical and emotional depth – as a producer, fan, and friend, I couldn’t be more proud of her and these songs.”
Mason Stoops
The only single released for this deluxe album was “Pushing It Down and Praying”. The song’s release in late September was accompanied by a music video starring McAlpine and Role Model. The pair have also collaborated on the track “So Far Gone,” which is features on Role Model’s recent album Kansas Anymore.
The track is a standout because McAlpine’s production perfectly aligns with her emotional mission for Older. Simplicity is the standard in this era of McAlpine’s music. On track that explores the complexities of intimacy and longing, she gives the music the space it needs to grow, elevate her lyrics and consume the listener’s attention.
The first verse and chorus are stripped down, placing McAlpine’s vocals over a lone acoustic guitar and sparse ornamentation. This hollowed out sound sets up listeners to be rocked by lead guitar, steady drumline, and boneshaking harmonies than kick off the second verse.
Although nothing about these editions are overbearingly complex, the naked presentation of the first verse allows McAlpine and Stoops to flex their production chops throughout the rest of the track. It’s song construction like this that makes Older (and Wiser) a perfect elevation of an album that is defined by its poignant simplisticity.
Older (and Wiser) album cover
Arguably the most powerful track on this expansion is “Spring Into Summer,” which became a fan favorite when McAlpine debuted the track live on tour earlier this year. The song rounds out the story of Older perfectly. “Spring Into Summer” is unapologetically direct lyrically and unbelievably warm sonically. The track is a perfect encapsulation of Older (and Wiser), a project where McAlpine displays more self-awareness and maturity than ever before.
Thankfully for fans, there’s more than just five new tracks to listen to. Along with Older (and Wiser), a documentary chronicling the recording process of the album on McAlpine’s YouTube channel. The hour-long film gives viewers an inside look into how McAlpine, Stoops and the band approached producing such an emotionally revealing project. Their commitment to bringing her vision into fruition is just as apparent as the joy they felt during the album’s production.
The final leg of The Older Tour will be taking place across the U.K. and Europe. To purchase tickets and merch from the tour, visit www.lizzymcalpine.com. McAlpine is at the top of her game with Older (and Wiser), so don’t miss the chance to see it live!
In the meantime, stream Older (and Wiser) wherever you get your music!
Love this! Would love to hear Smith’s thoughts on Role Model’s album.