Review
Lucy Dacus's 'Home Video' is like a warm embrace from an old friend, filled with stories that feel both intimately personal and achingly familiar. Released in the summer of 2021, this album took me on a journey through Dacus's past, painting vivid pictures of her childhood and teenage years in Richmond, Virginia. As I listened, I found myself transported to my own adolescence, reliving the bittersweet moments of first loves, self-discovery, and the confusion that comes with growing up.
The indie rock sound of 'Home Video' serves as a perfect canvas for Dacus's storytelling. Songs like 'Thumbs' and 'Hot & Heavy' hit me right in the heart, exploring the strange feeling of returning to your hometown and seeing it through changed eyes. I was particularly moved by 'VBS', which tells the tale of a summer romance at Vacation Bible School. It's a song that captures the complexity of young love, especially when beliefs and interests don't quite align.
What struck me most about this album was Dacus's raw honesty and attention to detail. In 'Cartwheel' and 'Partner in Crime', she delves into the intricacies of adolescent relationships with a clarity that's both refreshing and a little uncomfortable - in the best way possible. The use of Auto-Tune in 'Partner in Crime' adds an interesting layer, highlighting our attempts to present a perfect version of ourselves to the world. And 'Please Stay' - oh, how that song tugged at my heartstrings, exploring the helplessness we feel when trying to support someone who's struggling. This album is a beautiful, nuanced exploration of memory, identity, and the journey into adulthood that left me feeling seen and understood. - Lexi
