Wishbone
- Sophia Oppedisano
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
By Sophia Oppedisano
Editor-in-Chief
Conan Gray has reclaimed his throne as a king of pop with his fourth studio album, “Wishbone,” a cathartic, vulnerable, dreamy showcase of Gray’s storytelling and sonic prowess.
“Wishbone” is a compelling and much-anticipated return from Gray on the heels of his third studio album, “Found Heaven,” which took a distinct departure from the rest of Gray’s catalog and fell flat with fans.
In contrast to the synth-pop beats and catchy, nostalgic ’80s sound of “Found Heaven,” “Wishbone” is a breath of fresh air with its stripped-back, raw energy that perfectly encapsulates Gray’s strengths and originality as an artist.
Themes of heartbreak, trauma, and identity have always been prominent in Gray’s discography. What sets “Wishbone” apart is Gray’s unapologetic showcase of maturity, emotion, and honesty in his songwriting.
Singles “This Song” and “Vodka Cranberry” drew fans into the story of “Wishbone” immediately, beckoning them into the narrative of a coming-of-age relationship that didn’t work out.
Tracks such as “Actor,” “Nauseous,” and “Eleven Eleven” bottle up the emptiness and ache associated with heartbreak and longing, and practically beg fans who know the feelings all too well to recognize their own stories in the lyrics.
With these tracks, Gray explores the feelings that come with an apathetic partner, capturing the feelings of being ignored, forgotten, or invisible in a relationship.
“Romeo,” “My World,” and “Caramel” don’t miss a beat on this introspective journey, but they invite fans to dance and indulge in Gray’s addictive melodies.
What prevails across all 12 tracks is the feeling that Gray has created an intimate, tear-soaked slumber party for those of us 20-somethings who still wish on “wishbones and clovers and numbers from heaven.”
As we stand on the edge of uncertainty, lost in our identity, dealing with heartbreak, trauma, and trying to figure out where we belong, Conan is right there with us.
