CARR talks CARRGIRL’s thesis statement, taking risks and leaving it all on the table

Alt-Pop and rock icon, CARR, otherwise known as Carly McClellan, has made herself known with her brutally honest lyrics and fast-paced, crunchy riffs. Her latest album, “CARRGIRRL,” a record that creates a sugar rush feeling encased in excitable noise, was released on March 20. 

McClellan took the time answer some questions about the album and the single prior to its release, “Bang it Out.” 

“Bang It Out” feels raw and confrontational, what inspired you to write with the track with this energy? 

I think I wanted to convey the feeling of when a relationship is dead and all you have is the physical intimacy. So I tried to just be really honest and vulnerable while still keeping it fun somehow.

Sonically, the song is heavier than tracks released in the past, was this purposeful? 

Yes- I think I just wanted it to be more fun to go with the vibe of the lyrics 

Your music is sometimes described as “brutally honest” — do you ever hesitate before putting something so personal in your lyrics? 

Not really ever.. haha... I think I usually just lay it all out on the table. I’ve had moments post recording though...when I overthink a bit and ask myself it may be too much but I don’t think I’ve ever gone back and changed anything. 

If “Bang It Out” is a preview, what emotional or sonic world does “CARRGIRRL” live in? 

I would say it lives in the indie rock alt pop kind of space.

Were there any risks you took on this album that you hadn’t taken before? Is there a central theme that ties the album together? 

Hm not really lyrically, maybe sonically a bit with tracks like PT and tennisballs. They’re more stripped sounding and raw I would say.

You’ve carved out a space as a candid voice in alt-pop, did that feel intentional, or did it happen naturally? 

Naturally! I think my starting point was way more singer songwriter/ indie. I always enjoyed alt music so I think I naturally gravitated toward that sound as I grew as an artist. 

What does being an “alt-pop provocateur” mean to you? 

LOLLL I think just someone who keeps doing what I want and pushing the boundaries.

If “CARRGIRRL” had a thesis statement, what would it be?

Don’t date men that look like rats.

“CARRGIRRL” is available to listen on all streaming platforms, now.