A review of Phoebe Bridgers’ cathartic new album ‘Lost Weekend’

Written by Mark McConville

Credit: ‘Lost Weekend’ by Phoebe Bridgers (album cover)

Musician Phoebe Bridgers has become a phenomenon in a solo capacity as well as being part of a collective called boygenius, in which has created some of the most poignant songs. In truth, she’s an enigma, a vessel with so many ideas, with so much inspiration flapping around in her head. This inspiration only designs wonderful tracks, songs that offer stories. These fables stick around for the long haul too, and they resonate piling on the emotions.

Lost Weekend is another collection developed and honed. Her creative spark is also undying, and never processed from the hinderance of cliches, as every word and strum means something, and in that, the music doesn’t let-up or become a swamped mess. The album triggers emotions and embodies spirit and an attitude, and in turn, we get to feel the aftermath of an ultimate cry.

‘Lost Boys’ is a perfect track, signalling real intent. Bridgers sings about a person unafraid of the world. She thinks the machine will kill on her feet too, and that she’s sorry for being pretending that everything is make-believe.

‘Kill Me’ is another acoustic track fitted with a monologue of emotional significance. There is a real sense of dread here as Bridgers airs her feelings, marked by hurt. The song then lifts and her voice becomes a sound of energy which matches the theme.

‘Lost Weekend’ goes along the same theme. The vocals are pristine and the track breaks open a wider frequency, with Bridgers focusing on love’s inner depth while it stands unbroken. As well as that, the track elevates into this massive trance like vibe.

Pheobe Bridgers wholesomely puts her all into Lost Weekend, providing a sound for the masses and the disenfranchised, while trying to find her own way. It’s also a triumphant record in terms of lyrical swagger and emotiveness, putting into perspective the challenges of life.

9/10