Courtney Barnett – Sometimes I Sit And Think, And Sometimes I Just Sit (Mom & Pop/ Marathon Artists/ Milk!; 2015)
Following up two acclaimed EPs, Courtney Barnett has released her first full-length album. On the record, the Melbourne-based songstress and guitarist is able to vividly capture common struggles faced by the average 20-something. Her observational lyrics based on everyday occurrences like a commute to work or grocery shopping are honest, simple and relatable, but manage to tackle some pretty heavy-duty themes. On “An Illustration Of Loneliness,” the track’s protagonist is dealing with heartbreak and the inevitable nighttime insomnia and longing that comes along with it. On “Depreston,” she’s house-hunting, but can’t shake the eerie thought of the home’s late owner and her life story told through the photos still hanging on the walls. Barnett is able to weave between fast-paced, ‘90s-sounding Seattle grunge, blues-infused guitar solos, and stripped down acoustic playing. Courtney Barnett’s anthology of daily life over 11 tracks reminds us to take the time to relish the little things, no matter how ordinary they may seem.
Rating: 8.5/10
Trial Track: “Depreston”
