Lauran Hibberd – Girlfriend Material | Album Reviews

Lauran Hibberd’s sophomore album, “Girlfriend Material,” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey back to the early 2000s with its likeable, fuzzy pop-punk sounds reminiscent of Avril Lavigne’s heyday. The album is a collection of relatable lyrics that feel like they were taken straight from Hibberd’s personal journal, creating an intimate and authentic listening experience.

While “Girlfriend Material” may not break new ground in terms of originality, Hibberd’s willingness to embrace her influences adds to the album’s charm. Songs like “Jealous” and “2nd Prettiest Girl (In The World)” pay homage to Lavigne and Wheatus, respectively, with a level of immediacy that is hard to resist. Hibberd’s lyrics also elevate the album, touching on introspective topics such as grief, relationships, and self-acceptance.

Standout tracks like “I Suck At Grieving” and “Happy For You” showcase Hibberd’s songwriting prowess and emotional depth, while “90s Kid” delivers a catchy, singalong pop-punk anthem that is sure to resonate with listeners. The album’s diversity is highlighted by tracks like “Anti Fragile,” a delicate acoustic ballad that showcases a different side of Hibberd’s musicality.

Clocking in at under three minutes each, the tracks on “Girlfriend Material” maintain a lively pace that keeps the album engaging from start to finish. While the album leans heavily into its retro-pop sound, tracks like “Anti Fragile” offer a refreshing change of pace and hint at Hibberd’s potential for growth and exploration in future projects.

Overall, “Girlfriend Material” is a confident step up from Hibberd’s debut album, “Garageband Superstar,” and demonstrates her ability to craft catchy, heartfelt pop-punk anthems. While the album may not be groundbreaking, its nostalgic vibe and relatable lyrics make it a worthwhile listen for fans of early 2000s pop-punk and anyone craving a bit of Avril Lavigne revival in their music collection.

Rating: 7/10

Written by staticwire