Connor Spellecy
Entertainment Editor
Singer Phoebe Bridgers released her third solo album, “Lost Weekend,” on Friday, Aug. 14.
Bridgers continues to create her usual acoustic indie-pop, but steps into a new realm of experimentation while collaborating with a star-studded cast of indie rock artists.
When Bridgers began an unanticipated, phone-free pop-up tour in May, anticipation for a new album from the singer was high. This anticipation only intensified when a U.S. and European tour was announced and a single, “Lost Boys,” was released. After all the hype, Bridgers does not disappoint.
The last album from Bridgers, “Punisher,” was released in June of 2020 and was met with extremely positive reviews from critics, receiving an 8.7 from Pitchfork and four stars from Rolling Stone. It’s hard to imagine how Bridgers could make an album as good as, maybe even better than, this.
However, Bridgers continues to allow her sound to grow and evolve. From the dark, autotune-drenched opening track, “The Outside,” to the ecstatic, energetic “Bobby,” which turns out to be one of the most upbeat songs in her catalog.
Another standout of this album is the features. “Bobby” features both singer-songwriter Alex G and American Football guitarist Mike Kinsella. “I Can’t Wait” not only features a duet between Bridgers and Geese frontman Cameron Winter, but it also features Bright Eyes vocalist and longtime Bridgers collaborator Conor Oberst on harmonica. Boygenius bandmates Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker also appear on the album.
As is the case with any album, “Lost Weekend” is not without its faults. “Haunted” ventures too far into folk “stomp-clap” territory, and with 16 tracks and a runtime of 53 minutes, the album begins to drag on.
Even with the lows of the album, Bridgers can keep listeners engaged with deeply personal lyrics about grief and codependency, backed by some of the most complex instrumentals in Bridgers’ catalog.
The album was met with very positive reactions from listeners, being named best new music by Pitchfork magazine. The album also received high praise from NPR and the New York Times.
“Lost Weekend” has a parental advisory label for explicit language. It is available on all streaming platforms and is available on vinyl for $35.99-$40.99 depending on the pressing, and on CD and cassette for $15.
