CHARLOTTE GRAYSON - Low Standards

On Rotation: "LOW STANDARDS" by CHARLOTTE GRAYSON

Charlotte Grayson, a UK-based singer-songwriter, released her final track as part of her project The Shame Areas titled “Low Standards.” As the title might suggest, the song is fun-natured and self-deprecating, as she explores her disappointing experiences while dating men.

What makes “Low Standards” unique is how each verse showcases Charlotte’s dry humour and honesty. While she has built a following on this, “Low Standards” is extra confessional in nature, giving real-life examples of disappointing dating experiences. For example, the song kicks off with the punchy lyrics: “You showed up late, but at least you showed up / And at this point, that’s more than enough.”

It’s important to note that there is also an underlying sense of strength beneath all the irony, as she uses these experiences to write music, have a good laugh, and connect with her audience. I mean, is there anything more powerful?

The single came about during a spontaneous session. It was recorded in a quick, collaborative, and fun nature with producer Mark Folland. There’s a DIY edge to the production that keeps a good sense of emotion but also showcases her very high standards for sound quality. Sonically, “Low Standards” might be hard to compare to other artists out there today, but it sounds like a punchy blend of alt-pop, rock, and country. Perhaps it is best described as the perfect love child of early Taylor Swift and Paramore, with a little Alanis Morissette attitude.

This release follows January’s punchy and unfiltered return with “Get Outta My Yard.” For fans of artists like Courtney Barnett, Big Thief, or Lucy Dacus, this track will be an obvious playlist add. As she starts working on a new acoustic album, there’s a sense that Charlotte is leaning even further into her authentic voice, humour, and stripped-back lyrical writing.