The Haunted Man is a refinement of the sound that already worked very well on her sophomore album. The album is a banger from start to end, with absolutely no filler (a small problem on her other albums). She comes into her own Kate Bush+Björk on this album.
This album has definitely been one of the critic's favorites, and I can see why. It's got that youthful appeal, not quite instant but very catchy hooks, and dreamy, trippy soundscapes.
There are about 2 songs on this record that I don't listen to at all, but the highs are just beyond amazing. The melodies are crafted to be sweet ear candy, and Carly has a sweet charm about her voice that doesn't grate on my ears like some other bubblegum pop singers. The production is squeaky clean and the entire album is just a fun listen. Maybe it'll age badly like most other bubblegum pop albums, but as of right now it's amazing.