Review
"Capacity," Big Thief's second studio album released in 2017, is a heartfelt exploration of life's many layers. Recorded in the down-to-earth ambiance of a farmhouse using analog equipment, this album draws listeners in with its raw sound and deeply personal touch. Critics have praised its ability to reach profoundly introspective corners, marked with the essential feel of genuine musicianship.
Adrianne Lenker's vocals on "Capacity" have a beguiling power, each note painted with the brush of emotion—a canvas depicting family, identity, and the human experience. Tracks like "Mythological Beauty" and "Mary" are vivid stories that almost unfold like diary entries, offering emotionally gripping perspectives bolstered by Adrianne's remarkable lyricism. These narratives resonate through themes of familial essence and soul-searching that listeners from all walks of life find captivating.
What makes this album musically special is its weave of folk, rock, and indie dimensions through instrumentation such as acoustic and electric guitars, upright bass, and percussion. Additional instruments like the ARP synthesizer and pump organ add surprising yet draping layers. Andrew Sarlo's production keeps the album's sound tender and warm, a perfect offset for Lenker's honest vocals. Even the album cover drives the central theme home, with a poignant family photograph highlighting personal history and intimate reflection. "Capacity" resonates widely with its soulful craft, drawing recognition across NPR, Pitchfork, and Spin's revered year-end lists, embodying the serene spirit Big Thief is celebrated for. - Jasmine
