When it comes to modern Midwestern emo, Michigan outfit Charmer have always been somewhat under the radar. Appreciated by those who favour emotionally layered songwriting, the quartet blend nostalgic emo-rock with flashes of pop-punk urgency.
Their third album, ‘Downpour’, marks a return after five years away. That time hasn’t been idle, with each member going through personal changes. For vocalist David Daignault, new fatherhood in particular has shaped the lyrical tone. Throughout the album, he reflects on desperation, uncertainty, and the delicate balance of care and responsibility.
As ever, Charmer‘s music carries a strong nostalgic pull. Similar to their 2018 self-titled debut, ‘Downpour’ doesn’t chase modern trends but still avoids sounding dated. Twinkling emo textures on tracks like ‘Watercolor‘ sit alongside the post-hardcore punch of ‘Scream’ and the energetic rush of ‘Arrowhead’. There’s enough sonic variety for each track to stand on its own while remaining grounded in a familiar emotional tone.
‘Blue Jay’ is a standout, lifted by Nick Erickson’s tight, dynamic drumming. Guitars from Daignault and Neil Berg, along with Zack Alworden’s warm basslines, build a lush backdrop for Daignault’s poetic lyrics. It’s followed by ‘Swords Dance’, a moodier, alt-folk detour filled with sliding guitars and strained vocals. The result is a track that captures Charmer‘s ability to sit with bleak emotions without overindulging in them. ‘Rose Thorns’ also deserves praise, pairing upbeat instrumentation with lyrical metaphors of regret and emotional fragility.
The album’s pacing is well judged. Urgent cuts like ‘Blink’ contrast effectively with more restrained moments such as ‘Night’. Across repeated listens, Daignault’s reflections on adulthood, grief, and growth hit harder. While the topics have shifted from teenage heartbreak to heavier personal themes, Charmer still deliver with sincerity.
‘Downpour’ isn’t a reinvention but a confident step forward. The emotion remains raw and unfiltered, the sound stays recognisable, and the songwriting feels more lived-in than ever. Charmer continues to offer comfort to those growing older with emo still in their veins.
‘Downpour’ by Charmer is released on May 23rd on Counter Initiative Records.
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