I was so sure that Hilary Duff’s return would fix us all, and it’s thrilling to report that I was right. luck…or something is the perfect time capsule into the nostalgia we’re all desperately itching for, with the maturity that feels especially relatable.
The moment she released “Mature” as a single, then followed up on it with “Roommates,” it was obvious that Duff’s confidence in the life she built for herself would be the talking point of this album. It’d be the stories she wanted us to know with the level of honesty that comes from a woman who’s been in the spotlight since she was a kid. It’s all heart, coming strictly from her, with the encouragement of her husband, Matthew Koma, that’s so endearing to witness, and the result is magnetic.
Hilary Duff’s voice as an artist isn’t inherently unique, but how she’s become synonymous with uplifting pop is something we could use more of in our lives. How many of us dramatically belted out the lyrics for “Come Clean” when we were younger, while feeling every emotion under the sun? I know I have. And it’s because when Duff sings, there’s a joy in her voice that’s so utterly delightful you can’t help but jam right alongside her.
And while her previous albums were great, there’s truly no denying the layers in luck…or something. The nostalgia and metaphors she weaves into dance beats are thought-provoking and admirable, with some of the best songs about the heaviest topics. And while Duff breaks most of it down in CBS’s interview with Anthony Mason, you don’t even have to watch it to feel the depth of what she’s saying through her lyrics.
There’s something really special that happens in the music space when an artist finally feels ready enough to give us what they’ve wanted all along. Whether it’s a masterpiece or well-received doesn’t matter as much as the fact that you can tell they’ve produced something special. Duff’s latest album might not be everyone’s favorite, but it’s undoubtedly a special one. It’s one that I hope lands her the recognition she’s deserved for years now as an artist.
Pop music is alive and well, thanks to countless amazing artists out there, but Duff’s voice has been a missing puzzle piece. Plus, narratively, the album is an absolute masterclass for the simple reason of starting with “Weather for Tennis” and ending with “Adult Size Medium.” Two songs that I’ll bet big money most of us millennials can relate a little too closely with, and that’s where the deep, indescribable magic lies. This one’s for us. This one’s for her. This one’s for the joy and nostalgia that’s still bursting inside of us all.
Have you listened to luck…or something yet? What’s your favorite song off the record? Let us know in the comments below.
First Featured Image Credit: ©Hilary Duff