Adrianne Lenker’s album “songs,” released in October 2020, is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s an immersive experience into the heart of an artist finding solace and creativity in isolation. Recorded in a small cabin in the Berkshire Mountains during the early months of the pandemic, “songs” is a testament to the power of music to heal and connect, even in the most solitary of circumstances. This record, born from heartsick introspection and nurtured by the unique acoustics of a cabin studio, offers listeners an unparalleled glimpse into Lenker’s world.
The origin story of “Songs Adrianne Lenker” is as captivating as the music itself. When Big Thief’s tour was abruptly cut short in March 2020, Adrianne Lenker found herself seeking refuge in a cabin in Western Massachusetts, next door to friends Zoe and Brian. This wasn’t just any cabin; it was a space that resonated with sound, feeling “like the inside of an acoustic guitar.” Inspired by this unique sonic environment, Lenker reached out to her friend Philip Weinrobe with a proposition: to create a record that captured the essence of this acoustic space. Weinrobe enthusiastically agreed, and a remarkable recording journey began.
The setup process was far from conventional. Gathering borrowed equipment, including tape machines and a binaural head, they transformed the cabin into a makeshift studio. However, technical difficulties soon arose when unstable electricity fried several tape machines, including a crucial Otari 8 track. Despite this setback, and after weeks of troubleshooting, they managed to get a functional setup going, initially relying on Weinrobe’s battery-powered Sony Walkman. This limitation, while initially daunting, pushed them towards a pure, unfiltered recording approach. Thankfully, a rescued Otari 8 track arrived just in time, allowing for some overdubs but preserving the raw, intimate feel they had cultivated.
The creative process for “songs” was deeply intertwined with the surrounding environment and a focus on simple living. Lenker describes being “heartsick” and songs “flying through my ears” during this period. The recording sessions were fluid and organic, guided by emotion and improvisation. Nourishment came from cooking on a woodstove, and daily walks to a nearby creek for bathing grounded them in nature. This connection to the natural world is palpable throughout the album, adding to its earthy and honest character.
Nine of the eleven tracks on “songs adrianne lenker” were written during this intense recording period. Each day began and ended with improvised acoustic guitar instrumentals, showcasing the spontaneous and collaborative nature of the project. These instrumental pieces were later compiled to form the first side of the instrumental companion album, highlighting the improvisational aspect of the creative process.
“songs” is available in various formats to suit every listener. You can choose to stream and download the digital album, or opt for the tangible experience of a Record/Vinyl or Compact Disc (CD), each including a digital download. The tracklist features evocative titles such as “two reverse,” “ingydar,” “anything,” and “zombie girl,” each offering a unique sonic and emotional landscape.
Track Listing:
- two reverse
- ingydar
- anything
- forwards beckon rebound
- heavy focus
- half return
- come
- zombie girl
- not a lot, just forever
- dragon eyes
- my angel
Adrianne Lenker’s “songs” is more than just an album; it’s an invitation to share in a moment of profound artistic creation and personal healing. Through its intimate soundscapes and honest lyrics, “songs adrianne lenker” offers solace and connection, proving to be a true friend to listeners seeking refuge and beauty in music. Explore the album and discover the resonant world Adrianne Lenker has crafted within the walls of that small cabin.
