Big Thief

im sad now

They need their bassist back

On “Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You,” every song is an instant classic and so sonically distinct. Take the alternative percussion in “Time Escaping” for example, (like, HOW did they make this??) and then immediately following it, “Spud Infinity,” which is a jaw harp folk-country jam. Not to mention, “Change” opens the record and perfectly sets up our world with a stripped-back performance of pure, speculative feeling. “Could I set everything free? When I watch you holding her the way you once held me?” The album sits at 20 songs. That’s a lot of music! None of this runtime is wasted, however. Buck Meek’s guitar playing is stunningly explorative and experimental throughout, and James Krivchenia’s drum patterns are unique and fit right into this universe’s pocket. And Adrienne Lenker shreds on her lyrics of course, diving straight through to the core of each sentiment. In a standout track, “Simulation Swarm,” she sings “You are the river of light who I love, that I cling to in the belly of the empty night.” Lenker is one of the finest poets of this generation. I could go on and on here, so you might as well just take a listen and decide for yourself. No matter what, I promise you will find meaning in it.