Fake It Flowers is the debut album of Filipino-British singer-songwriter Beatrice Laus or known as “Beabadoobee.” Released on October 16, 2020 under the British independent label Dirty Hit, the record is described as a bubble grunge album, a poppier version of the  alternative/grunge genre, and pays tribute to the 90s grunge sound.

Born in Iloilo, Philippines, Laus and her family moved to London when she was three years old. She gained attention with her 2017 debut single, “Coffee” on YouTube. Later on, she signed to Dirty Hit Records. Moreover, English pop-rock band The 1975 is also currently signed to the independent label. 

Prior to her debut album, Beabadoobee released four extended plays (EP), Lice (2017), Patched Up (2018), Loveworm (2019), and Space Cadet (2019).

Laus gained massive attention after Canadian rapper Powfu released the 2019 single, "Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head)." In early 2020, the song went viral on the video-sharing app TikTok. It also peaked in the top 20 charts across 27 different countries, earning Laus her first platinum certifications in countries with large music markets such as the United States. 

Following the hype surrounding the singer, Laus embarked on a new era in her music career with the announcement of her debut album.

A blooming debut

Kickstarting a new era in the Beabadoobee’s music career, “Care” was released on June 15, 2020 as the album’s first single. The track’s guitar-driven atmosphere springforths a rock anthem from the singer’s catalogue, and fueled by anger with lyrics, “It's been a while since I've talked about it. Maybe it's time to cooperate. I need some help to forget about it. I don't want your sympathy. Stop saying you give a sh*t.”

Now, it deserves a couple of listens to get used to Beabadoobee’s newer sounds, which was hinted in her Space Cadet EP in 2019. 

The album’s second single, “Sorry,” starts off a bit more calm but utilizes its guitar-driven chorus to pull off another solid track. The track revolves around dealing with mistakes in a friendship, with lyrics, “And it hurts me. That you could be the one that deserved this even more. But you stayed in the same dark place that I adore. But you stayed for more. I guess that's what happens to the best of us.”

A more laid back acoustic track is another single, “How Was Your Day?,” released on September 28, 2020. The song makes us feel nostalgic; with its raw and acoustic vibes, and makes us think about the people we care about. Its intimacy begins with the verse, “How was your day? Was it okay? 'Cause we haven't talked in a while. Forgotten how you used to smile. What do you look like? Remember when we used to fight?” 

Supplementary recommendations

• “Together” is a perfect ending song to a late 90s to early 2000s teen rom-com. The overall nostalgic presence doesn’t feel over-the-top and makes you relive a cherished period in music. 
• “Worth It” is perfect to pair with The 1975’s “Me And You Together Song” as you imagine you’re living in an early 2000s Disney teen flick. 
• A song that Avril Lavigne may have written and performed in another timeline, “Dye It Red” offers powerful guitar riffs and empowerment in the lyrics. Time to leave that toxic ex-lover goodbye, hon. Oh, dying your hair into a new color is definitely liberating.
• As the title suggests, “Emo Song” hits you hard with an emotional punch to the face. A perfect song to chill to while laying in bed thinking about your relationship choices or life in general.
• Part of the album’s latter half, the heartfelt track “Horen Sarrison” is a spoonerism of Soren Harrison, Laus’ boyfriend. Now that person you’re in love with may not share the same name, it surely makes you feel with comfort and ease knowing that this is dedicated to a special person to the singer.

Overall, there are tracks that fall apart in terms of production and uniqueness. However, the debut album from the singer shows signs of Laus’ further potential. 

Even though Laus’ comes from a different generation, she fully embraces her love for 90s grunge and introduces it to the listeners of today. 

Rating: 4/5