With her latest album, soft pop icon Kristi Laus, aka beabadoobee continues her evolution from 2020s lo-fi bedroom pop towards contemporary indie grunge. This is a record layered with melancholy and introspection as Laus draws inspiration from the ’90s with a nostalgic sound.

It has been exciting to see the growth of beabadoobee since her breakout song ‘Coffee’ back in 2017. This Is How places her exemplary lyricism at the centre addressing the struggle of womanhood, insecurity and relationships. It begins with ‘Take a Bite’ which features ominous but glorious riffs and lyrics discussing the desire to relive moments and “see the world in colour”. This track and many others have that raw and intimate quality of the best bedroom pop.

The British-Filipino singer indulges in grungey riffs throughout the record, similar to that of Olivia Rodrigo. ‘California’ is a song driven by anger and discusses a need to escape LA life. Laus explores the disposability of fame and its brutal culture: “got the pieces of what they left, and I know they’ll never know”. The guitarwork reinforces Laus’ frustration and anger with fame culture.

‘Real Man’ surprised me whilst first listening as I expected the angsty and melancholic tone to remain consistent, but ‘Real Man’ is an unsettling and distorted track with a backing piano tune which could be in a horror film. The chorus quickens in pace alongside the jazzy piano as Laus sings “I guess nobody taught you how to be a real man” and discusses the pain of having high expectations and being messed around by somebody you love. One lyric which hit me in the gut was “I need your reassurance not a silly romance,” which is repeated throughout the song, and I think perfectly captures a relationship where two people are looking for different things.

Probably my favourite track, ‘Girl Song’ is the epitome of bedroom pop melancholy. It’s a ballad about everything to do with womanhood; Laus discusses insecurity, confusion, communication problems, the feeling of having more bad days than good, and an inability to love, or even like yourself. Laus’ soothing and peaceful voice are like a lullaby; completely calming despite the despairing lyrics.

This is How is a journey through the messy reality of adulthood. Laus’ distinctly intimate sound alongside her nostalgic ’90s production allows for a unique blend of soft pop and typical indie. It feels like a melancholic dream, yet its themes are so real; Laus paints a touching portrait of womanhood, and it is so exciting to see her grow as an artist.