Description
Carly Rae Jepsen – Kiss – Opaque White Vinyl Record
Released on September 14, 2012, Kiss is the second studio album by Canadian pop artist Carly Rae Jepsen. Following the global phenomenon of her breakout single “Call Me Maybe,” Jepsen leaned into her newfound pop stardom with an album that embraces youthful exuberance, glittering synth-pop production, and romantic escapism. The album draws inspiration from the sounds of the ‘80s while maintaining a modern, radio-friendly aesthetic, solidifying Jepsen as a key player in contemporary pop.
Carly Rae Jepsen gained international fame in 2012 with the release of “Call Me Maybe,” a track that topped charts worldwide and became a cultural sensation. The success of the single set high expectations for Kiss, as Jepsen aimed to prove herself as more than a one-hit wonder. The album was released under 604 Records, Schoolboy Records, and Interscope, with Jepsen collaborating with a team of prominent producers and songwriters, including Max Martin, Redfoo, Josh Ramsay, and Toby Gad.
Kiss was designed to capture the joy and innocence of young love while positioning Jepsen as a versatile pop artist capable of delivering more than just catchy singles.
Key Tracks and Themes
Call Me Maybe
The song that started it all, “Call Me Maybe” remains the album’s centerpiece. Its infectious hook, playful lyrics, and polished production made it an instant classic of the 2010s, with a timeless charm that continues to captivate listeners.
Good Time (with Owl City)
A collaboration with Owl City, this upbeat anthem celebrates carefree summer days and living in the moment. The duet’s feel-good energy made it a natural follow-up hit.
This Kiss
The title track explores the thrill of forbidden love with a bouncy, synth-heavy beat and Jepsen’s signature sugary vocals.
Curiosity
A track that showcases Jepsen’s ability to balance emotional depth with pop sensibilities, “Curiosity” reflects on longing and uncertainty in a budding romance.
Turn Me Up
This energetic breakup anthem combines pulsating beats with empowering lyrics about moving on and reclaiming one’s independence.
Your Heart Is a Muscle
A slower, heartfelt ballad that reveals Jepsen’s more vulnerable side, this track highlights her vocal range and emotional depth.
Tonight I’m Getting Over You
Produced by Max Martin, this dance-pop banger blends shimmering synths with lyrics about finding closure after heartbreak, making it one of the album’s standout moments.
Hurt So Good
This retro-inspired track channels ‘80s pop influences with its playful lyrics and upbeat tempo, embodying the album’s nostalgic charm.
Kiss revolves around themes of love, infatuation, heartbreak, and youthful optimism. Its lyrics are simple yet relatable, capturing the highs and lows of relationships with a sense of sincerity and joy. Musically, the album is heavily influenced by ‘80s synth-pop, with shimmering melodies, danceable beats, and polished production. Jepsen’s light, effervescent vocals serve as the perfect vehicle for these bright, romantic songs, striking a balance between nostalgia and modernity.
Kiss debuted at No. 6 on the US Billboard 200 and received generally positive reviews from critics. While some viewed the album as lightweight compared to its contemporaries, many praised its catchy hooks, polished production, and Jepsen’s ability to convey emotion through her vocals. Critics highlighted tracks like “Call Me Maybe” and “This Kiss” as standouts, while others noted the album’s cohesive, fun-loving aesthetic.
Although Kiss didn’t match the meteoric success of “Call Me Maybe,” it established Jepsen as a skilled pop artist with a knack for crafting infectious, feel-good music. The album’s success paved the way for her later work, including her critically acclaimed 2015 album Emotion, which expanded her artistry and secured her status as a pop icon.
Kiss captures a moment in time when Jepsen dominated the pop landscape, bringing a sense of joy and lightheartedness to the genre. “Call Me Maybe” became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless memes, covers, and parodies, while tracks like “Good Time” and “This Kiss” solidified her ability to deliver hits. The album remains a snapshot of the early 2010s pop scene, with its blend of nostalgia and modern production continuing to resonate with fans.
10th anniversary vinyl edition
Exclusive opaque white vinyl
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Tiny Little Bows
This Kiss
Call Me Maybe
Curiosity
Good Time
More Than A Memory
Turn Me Up
Hurt So Good
Beautiful
Tonight I’m Getting Over You
Guitar String / Wedding Ring
Your Heart Is A Muscle
