In an intimate press conference ahead of the release of her highly anticipated album Love and Hyperbole, Alessia Cara opened up about her artistic evolution, the themes behind her latest project, and the deeply personal nature of her songwriting. Set to drop this Friday, the album marks a decade since Cara first captured hearts with her breakout hit “Here.” Now, she returns with what she calls her “best work to date, or at least my personal favorite.”

Reflecting on her upbringing in Brampton, Ontario, Cara spoke about how the city’s diversity shaped her approach to music and songwriting. “I grew up in a place that celebrated different cultures, and I think that really informed my songwriting,” she shared. “It expanded my horizons creatively and emotionally.” She also acknowledged the distinct musical identity that has emerged from the Greater Toronto Area, describing it as a key influence in her sonic journey.

Fans have noticed a consistent use of deep reds in the visuals surrounding Love and Hyperbole. Cara explained that this choice was rooted in both artistic instinct and personal connection to color. “I have synesthesia, so I see colors when I hear sounds. The wine red in the visuals just felt right—it has warmth, but also cool undertones. That contrast perfectly represents the themes of the album,” she said.

While Cara’s past work has often been introspective, tackling themes of personal struggle and self-discovery, Love and Hyperbole explores love in a way that feels new for her. “There’s a song called ‘Fire’ that’s special to me because it’s the first time I’ve written about love without fear or negativity attached to it,” she explained. “It’s just a love letter—no overthinking, no hesitation. That was scary for me, but also really freeing.”

With multiple platinum certifications under her belt, Cara was asked about the secret formula behind a hit song. Her answer? There isn’t one. “Hit songs all sound different, but I think the common thread is that they hit people on a deep level,” she said. “Simplicity and universality are key. If a song makes you feel something, it’s doing its job.”

One of the most exciting parts of creating this album, she revealed, was the opportunity to record live with musicians in the studio—something she hadn’t been able to do in recent years due to the pandemic. “We had string players, a horn section, and live musicians feeding off each other’s energy. It felt like how music is supposed to be made,” she said.

The album’s title speaks to the grand emotions of love—both the highs and lows, the humor and the heartbreak. Cara explained that she used hyperbole both as a storytelling device and as a way to process emotions. “Love can feel dramatic, like it’s the end of the world or the only thing that matters. I wanted to capture that intensity, but also use humor to lighten the weight of those feelings,” she said.

For fans who have been with her since the beginning, Love and Hyperbole offers a look at an artist who has evolved while staying true to her essence. “If you listen to my albums in order, you’ll hear that I’ve grown a lot,” she said. “But I think the DNA of who I was on my first album is still there. I’m just more open now, more comfortable with myself.”

As she prepares to share her latest work with the world, Cara remains committed to embracing both love and hyperbole in all their messy, beautiful forms. With this album, she invites listeners to do the same.

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