After the last few years of women being the primary pop stars, Conan Gray has filled a niche that’s been missing. Aug. 15 marked his fourth album’s release date to the excitement of fans and music enthusiasts alike. Gray’s style has evolved over the last few years and it’s easy to see how his music has grown with him.
The album itself is melancholy and reminiscent covering themes of heartbreak and grieving past relationships. “Wishbone” is deeply introspective while also being relatable enough to appeal to a wide audience of listeners. The singles released prior to the release date including “Vodka Cranberry” and “This Song” were amazing teasers for the rest of the album. They were perfectly catchy while still feeling like they carried genuine emotion. In a world where a lot of music feels manufactured, the album’s intimate connection with the artist and listeners is refreshing. Senior Ivy Galens puts it best, explaining that, “it’s kind of angsty but in a calm way.”
Fan speculation on who the album is about has created buzz in the entertainment world. Some have discussed the possibility of it being about Kit Conor. With songs like Romeo possibly relating to him having starred in Broadway’s most recent adaptation of Romeo and Juliette. However, because of the age and misalignment of Gray’s description to Conor’s life it is unlikely. It may be an unlikely mystery to his fans for now, but it certainly won’t stop speculation. As Senior Kayla Condon describes it, the album is powerful. Not just lyrically, but in how it motivates fans to speculate about who “Wishbone” could have been about.
One of the most exciting things to come from the album is a tour! The Wishbone Pajama Show started Sep. 11 and is coming to Michigan on Sep. 17. The vibes of the tour are a cross between sailors and sleepwear and sure to be a good time for anyone going. His set-list includes songs from both Wishbone and past albums. He includes some of his most popular songs including “Heather” and “Maniac.” Many fans are wearing elevated pajama looks accompanied with sailor hats to fit the theme.
One challenge about the concert landing on a Wednesday for students is school the next morning. It may be a challenge to move past the magic of the night, but it will have been well worth it to get to experience Wishbone and other songs from Gray’s discography performed live at Pine Knob Music Theater.
Whether or not people have been a fan of him in the past, it is undeniable that Gray made an incredible album. He has without a doubt granted every fan’s wish for new music and far exceeded expectations.
