Adrianne Lenker, renowned singer-songwriter and Big Thief band member, is set to release her latest solo album, “Bright Future,” on March 22nd via 4AD. The album, marking Lenker’s first since 2020’s “songs & instrumentals,” boasts co-production by Philip Weinrobe and collaborative contributions from Nick Hakim, Mat Davidson, and Josefin Runsteen.
Lenker’s recently shared single, “Sadness As A Gift,” follows the previously released “Ruined” and showcases her signature warmth and familiarity. The timeless yet refreshingly novel track features Adrianne’s evocative lyrics, with lines like, “The seasons go so fast // Thinking that this one was going to last // Maybe the question was too much to ask.”
“Bright Future” emerged as an unexpected outcome of an autumn 2022 experiment in collaboration. Lenker, accompanied by musical friends Hakim, Davidson, and Runsteen, gathered at the secluded Double Infinity studio. Despite the uncertainty, Lenker describes the sessions as “magical,” leading to the creation of the studio’s inaugural album, a 12-track journey of the heart.
Co-producer and engineer Philip Weinrobe, Lenker’s longtime collaborator, prepared the studio with an Otari 1/2 inch 8-Track and Studer console, aiming for pure technical honesty. The 150-year-old main room of Double Infinity set the stage for Lenker’s desired instrumentation—piano, guitar, and violin—masterfully played by Mat Davidson, Nick Hakim, and Josefin Runsteen, respectively.
The recording process unfolded with an organic ease, capturing the essence of each performance. Lenker notes, “It felt like everyone’s nervous systems released,” emphasizing the spontaneity and authenticity of the sessions. The resulting album, “Bright Future,” reflects thoughtful engineering combined with the natural ambiance of a field recording, showcasing the unarmored and light-footed nature of Lenker’s songs.
Bright Future will be available in various formats, including digital, CD, cassette, standard black vinyl, and recycled vinyl (Indie & D2D Exclusive) starting March 22nd. Pre-order information is available [link to be inserted]. Lenker’s admirers, both from her solo work and Big Thief, can anticipate a captivating musical journey with the stunning clarity of her talent preserved in these recordings.
Rome is a freelance writer and photographer. He brings a fresh perspective to the indie music scene and highlights emerging artists and underground movements. His writing style is drawn from personal experiences and a deep love for the art form.