Francene Rouelle Ushers in Fall with Reflective New Album “off the carousel”
Written by Jonathan "V" Villanueva | August 3, 2025
photo by @chie_endo
AUSTIN, TX – As summer draws to a close, rising indie-pop artist Francene Rouelle delivers a sweetly somber soundtrack to ease us into the season of reflection with her debut album, off the carousel. Following her well-received singles all the things I’d do and mr too perfect, the new full-length project further cements Rouelle’s signature blend of dreamy synths and emotionally honest lyricism.
Released through Asian American indie label mHart, off the carousel explores themes of memory, emotional release, and personal growth. It’s a coming-of-age collection that captures the ache of holding on and the courage it takes to let go. The album marks a confident step forward in Rouelle’s evolution as both a songwriter and a storyteller.
A second-generation Filipina and Austin native, Francene Rouelle brings raw vulnerability to her work—inviting listeners into moments of tenderness and self-discovery. Throughout off the carousel, she shares reflections on love, loss, and identity, offering comfort for those navigating their own transitions.
Right from the opening track, Rouelle sets a tone of soft melancholy. One of the album’s most striking lines—“everyone I love had to know your name”—captures the lingering impact of past relationships and the emotional residue they leave behind. But rather than dwelling in despair, the album embraces healing and self-worth.
“off the carousel is about stepping off the ride—whatever cycle you’ve been stuck in—and finding clarity in the quiet,” says Rouelle. “It’s about being honest with yourself, even when it hurts.”
With this release, Rouelle proves she’s more than a voice in the bedroom pop space—she’s a voice for a generation learning to move through its emotions with grace. off the carousel is an album that resonates long after it ends, and as the leaves change, so too will the way it finds its place in listeners’ lives.
Whether you’ve been following her journey or are just discovering her now, off the carousel is a moving entry point into the world of Francene Rouelle—and a stunning companion to the changing season.
