It would seem at this point in this current year, that 2020 couldn’t get any worse. Though this very notion is sure to be challenged at any moment, at least right now, we have some excellent news to celebrate. That news is the announcement of not one, but two new solo records on the way from the mesmerizing talent that is singer-songwriter Adrianne Lenker, frontperson of Big Thief.
The genesis of this project(s) began because Big Thief’s tour was cut short in early March. At a loss, Lenker moved into the mountainous region of Western Massachusetts, where Lenker would call a little cabin home during the on-going quarantine period. Lenker grew close to the cabin’s character, likening its ambiance to the “Inside of an acoustic guitar.” From this mere analogy, these two new records were born.
Simply and facetiously called songs and the other instrumentals, the two new projects’ impending arrival are not without a new song. Titled “Anything”, the lead single—lifted from songs—is Lenker at her quintessential, guitar-strumming best. With Lenker’s soft string-plucking playing to an ambient effect—not unlike anything from past solo material and of Big Thief— “Anything” is as gorgeous and intimate as you’d expect. Except, the lyrics make this statement ring even more true as Lenker sings about silence so that we can sit and be present with our surroundings and with the loved ones in our lives. Basic but resonant as always.
Regarding hopes for how Songs and Instrumentals would be received, Lenker explains:
“I’m grateful that this music has come into existence. These songs have helped me heal. I hope that at least in some small way, this music can be a friend to you.”
Both songs and instrumentals are out on October 23 via 4AD.
