Shawn by Shawn Mendes - In Review
by Vy Le | November 24th, 2024
Shawn is the fifth album by Shawn Mendes, set to release on November 15, 2024. The release date was originally set for October 18, 2024, but was pushed back. It was preceded by the singles “Why Why Why”, “Isn’t That Enough”, “Nobody Knows”, and “Heart of Gold”, and serves as his second self-titled album after his 2018 album Shawn Mendes.
Shawn Mendes and Wonder are some of my all-time favorite albums, so I actually have high expectations for this album. If Shawn Mendes feels like a summer afternoon, Wonder feels like a midnight dream, then Shawn would be a cold winter day.
Who I Am
"Who I Am" unravels the tangled threads of self-doubt and insecurity. With its guitar-driven sound, it captures the raw confusion of navigating the weight of others’ expectations while trying to prioritize yourself. The lyrics hit hard, especially lines like “I feel pressure from the people that I love, and it hurts” and “Sorry, gotta do it, gotta let you down.” It’s an anthem for anyone learning to put themselves first, perfectly balancing vulnerability and strength.
Why Why Why
“Why Why Why” gives me flashbacks to Shawn Mendes (2018). The first time I listened, I felt transported back to the summer of 2018. The vocal layers in the chorus really stand out, stacking up to make the question “Why” feel so slammed. In an Apple Music interview, Shawn described how the song emerged from moments of intense anxiety in the studio, which often led to breakthroughs. This track reflects that vulnerability with raw honesty, as Shawn said he wanted listeners to feel the emotions directly without digging too deep for meaning.
That’s The Dream
“That’s The Dream” feels like a hazy memory, reflecting on a love that once was. Rooted in a dream about a past relationship, the track’s simplicity lets its bittersweet emotions take center stage. Lines like “I know we made our promises / But promises are hard to keep” linger like the remnants of a dream you can’t quite let go of. Its understated nature mirrors the fragility of those fleeting moments.
Nobody Knows
“Nobody Knows” stood out immediately when the singles were released. The higher-string plucks in the background and bluesy sound give it a unique edge. Shawn’s lyrics describe a love that feels enchanting, with phrases like “your touch walks me home” and “when the glitter is gold” evoking a sense of magical intimacy. There’s a bittersweet undertone, though, as the words “feels like it should” hint at the fleeting or illusory nature of that connection.
Isn’t That Enough
“Isn’t That Enough” is one of the catchiest tracks on the album, with its folk-inspired sound and layered opening lines: “Sweet is the sun / Warm is the rain / June is the month / Free is the day.” The calmness contrasts with the haunting repetition of the chorus, “Isn’t that enough?” It’s like the echo of overthinking—those endless questions that keep you up at night. Its simplicity and depth make it quietly unforgettable.
Heart of Gold
“Heart of Gold” is an acoustic guitar-led tribute to a childhood friend who passed away from a drug overdose. The pre-chorus hits especially hard with, “When we were young / We didn’t care / We shot for the stars / I’ll see you up there.” It’s raw, poignant, and filled with the kind of emotion that lingers long after the song ends.
Heavy
“Heavy” brings a gentle country-inspired vibe, balancing emotional depth with ease. The pre-chorus builds beautifully, leading to a dynamic shift in the chorus that feels cathartic. This track grows on you with each listen, leaving a lasting impression through its subtle yet powerful themes.
That’ll Be The Day
“That’ll Be The Day” dives into the whirlwind of love, heartbreak, and longing. The high-pitched guitar adds raw vulnerability, while lyrics like “I could pretend that I have a chance / At another romance, but, honey, in the end / Even if I tried, I’ll be wastin’ breath / I’ll be fakin’ sex ‘cause you’ll be on my mind” hit like a gut punch. It’s painfully honest but beautifully crafted.
In Between
“In Between” captures the emotional limbo of wanting more than something casual but not being ready for full commitment. The lyric “If it isn’t black and white, then it’s onto the next” sums up the uncertainty of navigating relationships. The bridge cleverly incorporates the melody from “Isn’t That Enough,” tying themes of overthinking and longing together. Its reflective tone and understated complexity make it one of the standout tracks.
The Mountain
From my interpretation, “The Mountain” is about reconnecting with nature while distancing yourself from public opinion. Responding to speculation, Shawn declares, “So call it what you want.” The line “You can say I like girls or boys / Whatever fits your mold” is bold and unapologetic, brushing off labels and reclaiming his narrative. It’s self-assured and powerful, signaling that Shawn is done tiptoeing around expectations.
Rollin’ Right Along
“Rollin’ Right Along” leans into country vibes, with an opening that gives instant “Jolene” energy. It feels like a continuation of “The Mountain,” but with a personal touch, reflecting on Shawn’s life after debuting at just 15. Lines like “Two years since I held my baby tight / Learned my heart can break and that's alright” seem to address his past relationship with Camila Cabello, showing both vulnerability and growth.
Hallelujah
The album closes with Shawn’s take on Leonard Cohen’s iconic “Hallelujah.” His delivery, especially the vibrations in the chorus, gives it an intimate feel. Shawn’s addition of a final verse seamlessly blends his style with the original. The line “It's a cold and it's a broken Hallelujah” resonates with quiet intensity, carrying a mix of heartbreak and hope. It’s a stunning reinvention and tribute.
Shawn feels like Shawn Mendes at his most raw and emotional. It is heavy on themes of self-doubt, reflection, and personal growth, exploring not just love but life, loss, and mental health. Compared to his previous work, this album is deeply personal and authentic. I didn’t expect Shawn to pour his emotions out like this, and it was a surprising, refreshing listen.
My Picks
In Between
The Mountain
Isn’t That Enough
As Shawn told Lowe, whatever label people place on him “really doesn’t matter because I feel this.” Shawn is a statement of purpose from a seasoned artist in his mid-twenties, proving what he is capable of when he is free to create without limits. (Apple Music)
LISTEN HERE
