With his recent rise to fame fueled by the viral success of his single “back to friends,” an indie-pop ballad that immediately captured the attention of millions of social-media users with its melancholic sound and poignant lyrics, Sombr’s early career has been nothing short of success. After much anticipation, he finally released his debut album on August 22nd of this year, I Barely Know Her, a collection of 10 tracks that takes listeners on a journey through heartache and self-discovery.  

After the almost immediate success of his first single, he released three accompanying tracks “undressed” and “we never dated”, two sonically similar songs that express the complexities of modern-day relationships. While his last single, “12 to 12” introduces a more eclectic vibe with its witty lyrics and nostalgic beat, highlighting his versatility as a songwriter, an impressive feat, especially for such a young artist. 

Other notable songs on Sombr’s album include “crushing,” the bittersweet opening track that encapsulates how quickly two people can grow apart when the once intense spark between them burns out and reality sets in. “I wish i knew how to quit you” feels like a follow-up as it delves deeper into the realm of unrequited feelings and the painful process of getting over someone.

“canal street” is another significant track as it alludes to the block in Lower Manhattan where Sombr grew up, adding a more personal touch to the album. However his lyrics also establish a sense of relatability. “And I tried to go on dates/ But none of  them were you” resonates on a universal level to those experiencing similar heartbreak. “canal street” also audibly stands out, as it features an acoustic guitar as its main instrument rather than the pop-rock sound that dominates a majority of the album

Sombr concludes his album with the final track, “under the mat”, which features the harsh lyrics, “I saw her at her worst, still, I desired her/ I learned to read her eyes and know when she would lie,” that builds into an intense chorus of betrayal and emotional vulnerability. 

I Barely Know Her is the perfect debut album for Sombr, as it showcases his distinct sound, vocal talent, and thought-provoking lyricism. This album not only establishes him as one of the next largest male pop artists but also sets him up for nominations in various Grammy categories, including Best New Artist and Album of the Year.