Cassadee Pope “Thrive” Album Review

Cassadee Pope released her brand new album Thrive on Friday, October 15. The dynamic singer-songwriter confidently comes into her own while being vulnerable and authentic.

Many recognize Pope from her time on The Voice where she became the winner of season 3 back in 2012. The following year she released her debut album Frame By Frame, which went on to reach no. 1 on the Country Albums Chart. Songs like “Wasting All These Tears” and “If My Heart Had A Heart” made her relatable to fans. Pope also went on to earn a no. 1 song with “Think OF You” where she was featured with Chris Young.

The opening track “Welcome” is exactly that: a welcoming into the electric world Pope has created with Thrive. The overall sound draws on inspiration from mid-2000s rock-pop, all while staying true to her country roots. “Same Old Brand New Me” is the perfect example of that sound. “Wherever it takes me, I know it won’t break me, cause I’ll always be, the same old brand new me.”

The woes of heartbreak are met with an angst style of production on this LP. “Break Too” is about acknowledging that even if you’re the one ending it, heartache still cuts both ways. “Just cause you make him cry, that don’t mean you don’t cry too, just cause you let him go, that don’t mean you ain’t going through all the pain, of the change.” “Say It First” dives into the real anxiety that is felt when know the love has run its course.

There are collaborations on this project worth noting. “What The Stars See” features Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town and Lindsey Ell. This track acts as wanting to be a fly on the wall when you can’t be with someone. “Mind Your Own” feat. Stephen Jenkins cleverly calls out those who can’t seem to mind their own business. “Let everybody be themselves, what’s it gotta do with you, why are you so hateful, why are you so cold, cause if you were happy, you would mind your own.” A message that certainly resonates in today’s culture.

Pope radiates empowerment throughout Thrive, but especially on “Sis.” The song is an anthem about being there for your friends come hell or high water. That sense of empowerment whether it comes from finding yourself through heartbreak, or from life in general, is what made Pope want to inspire others with these songs.

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