ALBUM REVIEW: Name What I Need by Caitlin Mahoney

Caitlin Mahoney’s third full-length album, Name What I Need, is an evolution that reflects a journey that spans across the country and into the vast depths of self-awareness. After years of honing her craft in New York City and a brief stint in Los Angeles, Caitlin’s relocation to Northeast Florida seems to have provided the perfect backdrop for Name What I Need’s personal and reflective work.

The album is a masterful blend of synth-pop layers against Caitlin’s honey smooth and warm vocals. But the album doesn’t just showcase her vocal range, it also shows her growth as a songwriter as she explores themes of boundaries, burnout, and self-love. 

Each nuanced examination allows tracks like “Feeling Free” and “Prison” to capture the album’s spirit and offer anthems of liberation and self-discovery. However, the album’s strength lies in its diversity. The song feels like a chapter in Caitlin’s story or a page from her diary. Be it the introspective “Forest” or the empowering “Let”, they are raw, vulnerable, and offer an authentic edge that is engaging from start to finish.

One of the most commendable aspects of Name What I Need is Caitlin’s unwavering commitment to female empowerment. The album is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of creative women, be it with femme-led music videos, or collaborative art projects, Caitlin provides a platform that uplifts female voices.

Caitlin Mahoney has crafted an album that is as much about personal growth as it is about artistic expression. It’s for anyone seeking music that speaks to both the heart and mind. Name What I Need is a beacon of positivity and strength in a world where such qualities are often in short supply.