Carly Simon announces her first album of original material in 16 years. The legendary singer-songwriter, who shaped 1970s soft rock and pop with hits like "Anticipation" and "You're So Vain," returns to the studio with "Comes in Waves." The album follows 2008's "This Kind of Love," marking a significant gap in her output of new compositions. Simon has remained active during this period, releasing compilations and reissue projects, but "Comes in Waves" represents a full creative return to songwriting and recording.
The lead single "Howl" showcases Simon's evolved artistry while maintaining the introspective lyricism and sophisticated production that defined her Elektra Records era. At 78 years old, Simon demonstrates that her voice and songwriting instincts remain sharp. The timing reflects a broader trend of veteran artists reclaiming their catalogs and releasing late-career work. Artists from Joni Mitchell to Leonard Cohen have produced some of their most acclaimed albums in their later years.
Simon's career renaissance comes as the music industry increasingly values legacy acts and catalog ownership. Her influence on contemporary singer-songwriters remains undeniable, with her confessional style prefiguring the intimacy now standard in mainstream pop. The release also signals confidence in her continued relevance nearly five decades after "No Secrets" established her as a major force.
The decision to record new original material rather than relying solely on reissues or live performances suggests Simon's commitment to artistic growth rather than nostalgia. "Comes in Waves" arrives at a moment when audiences have demonstrated appetite for elder statesmen and women of rock returning with substantive new work. For Simon fans waiting since 2008, the album represents validation that one of pop music's finest songwriters still has stories to tell.