Greta Kline, more aptly known by her stage name Frankie Cosmos, has nestled herself in the indie rock singer-songwriter scene. The daughter of actors Kevin Kline and Phoebe Cates, her New York City attitude demands listeners’ attention, referencing the poetry she studied in college throughout her songs. Through witty lines and dark humor, Cosmos has an authentic knack for crooning about the human condition. Using her own personal experiences, she breaks the barriers of age and gender alike. Rising to prominence through bops like “Young” and “Outside with the Cuties,” Cosmos now drops her new album, Vessel, which sees her evolve from the mainstream to an individualistic take on her genre.

Opening track “Caramelize” sets the album’s quirky tone. Cosmos incorporates intensely layered harmonies to create a world within the song that takes you straight to the 1980s via Cranberries-esque ethereal vibe. Her chosen sound harkens back to ‘60s hip shaking, ‘80s feel-good and even early 2000s teen angst. The compact melodies of “As Often As I Can” exemplify her dreamy 1960s nostalgia. Although the tune seemingly ends as soon as it starts, her siren voice strokes heartstrings with sentimentality: “When you close your dreamy eyes are they even close to dreaming of mine?/ You could take me and my apathy and turn us into clarity.” 

At 23, Cosmos intertwines a youthful, free-spirited aura through the fabric of Vessel, spotlighted by how her chosen subject matter reflects purity and self-awareness. On tracks like “Duet” and “Apathy” her hopeless romantic tendencies scream loud and clear. Cosmos shows no fear in revealing her naked emotions, allowing listeners to be moved by deep-rooted thoughts and passions for blue, bright eyes and idyllic dates. No matter where her songs go thematically, a profound innocence remains potent in her delivery, which takes center stage in the playful jangle-pop cut “Jesse.” In spite of this musical backdrop, the empathetic “Apathy” paints a relatable picture of anyone who struggles with a longing for someone who will make them better.

The influence Cosomos’ English and poetry studies has on her music plays out throughout the record; especially the work of avant-garde poet Frank O’Hara—which translates beautifully into her lyricism. These influences play into her notable similarities to the songwriting traditions of Diners and Jaunt. On the spirited “Accommodate” she embraces her innocence in a sunny and happy spirit with adequate percussion to keep the song interesting. The unconventional “Cafeteria” imparts thematic joy with electronics reminiscent of the xylophone, alongside the spunky lyrics Cosmos has down to a science.

Frankie Cosmos thoroughly impresses with this eccentric dialogue disguised as a delightful album. She has single-handedly made a name for herself among the brigade of indie art house artists, highlighting the particular artistry it takes to produce music both listenable and emotionally weighty. Vessel ranges from external desires to internal needs, making it a fascinating and gripping soundtrack to life’s early journey.

Follow Vic Silva at Twitter.com/VicSilvaaaa.