Hilary Duff's New Album 'Breathe In. Breathe Out.' Might Reveal the Truth About Her Relationship with Ex Mike Comrie
Nearly every song on 'Breathe In. Breathe Out.' reveals Hilary's relationship headspace.
When many of us regard Hilary Duff, we still envision little Lizzie McGuire digging through overly-stuffed closets in frustration, lamenting various pre-teen life choices, and philosophizing in cartoon form.
This, among other reasons, is why it's so cool to see her growing up, raising a son of her own, and releasing great music.
In quick summary, Breathe In. Breathe Out. is a worthwhile listen. The album thrives on a feel-good vibe that speaks to relatable instances of love, loss and change.
When we observe a kid grow into an adult so closely, we sometimes feel an almost protective bond with them; we want to see them do well, and mature. So if you were a fan of Duff way back in the day, we're confident in hoping you'll be just as proud of her newest chart-topper.
Before our eyes, we're watching Duff's metamorphosis from (frankly) subpar, overly auto-tuned teen performer to the type of artist whose music will be blasted because it's legitimately fun and poppy - not only because a part of us still guiltily lusts after her fabulous butterfly clips.
Even more interesting is that what seems to be nearly all of the songs on the album clearly reference her now defunct relationship with Canadian ice hockey player Mike Comrie.
She and Comrie share a son, Luca, who is too sweet for words in his three-year-old splendor.
As a matter of fact, the album as a whole seems to serve as one giant ode to her ex-husband, shedding much more light on what has thus far been an exceedingly elusive breakup for Hollywood.
Here's a rundown of the 12 songs on Breathe In. Breathe Out.
1. Sparks
"Sparks" was the album's first teaser, and fans weren't disappointed.
It's suggestive, sassy, and may or may not suggest that Duff still hooks up with Comrie despite their strenuous past. This wouldn't be the most uncommon, nor the most scandalous revelation, but it does indicate that the split hasn't been a walk in le parq.
2. My Kind
This song listens as the good girl's tale of YOLO.
Duff illustrates her affinity for this person and the fact that she's with them "for the night" despite the deep-rooted knowledge that it probably won't work out.
3. One In A Million
"One In a Million" is one giant pro-self binge and it's all kind of fantastic. Every woman in a less-than-ideal relationship eventually comes to the realization that she's too good for these behaviors; this is Hilary's moment.
4. Confetti
Who knew that confetti had such propensity for tragedy?
5. Breathe In. Breathe Out.
Yaaassssss, girl, yaaassssss.
Hilary waves a slow goodbye to Comrie as her man-filled, rose-laden bright red Ferrari rounds the corner. Streamers softly fall onto Comrie's shoulders as he regrets his actions.
6. Lies
Obviously "lying" is a consistent theme.
This tune in general has a much more aggressive vibe. It's also probably one of the better breakup songs I've heard this year. Use this knowledge as you will.
7. Arms Around A Memory
Sigh.
8. Stay In Love
At this point it's clear that this breakup wasn't easy. Your heart goes out to Hilary; you're remembering moments when you felt the exact same way with your own SO.
9. Brave Heart
"Brave Heart" aptly describes that journey in which you've been with someone for a long time, but have come to the point that it's just not right anymore. Arguably one of the worst feelings in the world.
Aaand I just wanna crawl into Lizzie's closet and hide.
10. Tattoo
Duff partnered with Ed Sheeran (who wrote the track) to produce what might be the slowest song on the album.
It's also the most conversational, almost reminiscent of a song you'd hear on a Taylor Swift album. Good old Ed.
11. Picture This
"Picture This" is the most NSFW track on the album, while simultaneously managing to remain entirely wholesome — yet another ode to the memory of intimate moments had with someone you're no longer on the same page.
12. Night Like This
A duet with singer-songwriter Kendall Schmidt, this song is a far cry from the emotion that's expressed in the rest of the album. Though its lyrics continue to explore love and relationships, it's the singular track that's looking to the future as opposed to the past.
Breathe In. Breathe Out. is available now on iTunes.