Whether solo or on Big Thief, Adrianne Lenker's reputation as a playful, heartfelt, sincere, and otherworldly comforting writer precedes her. But “Bright Future” feels like a change. Introspective from the start, “Real House” begins with a vivid look back at her former life at a steady, deliberate pace. From here, it's clear that there is a specific purpose behind this record. It's a seriousness that hasn't necessarily been utilized in the past. “Sadness As A Gift” is her typical song centered around positivity and perspective, but from here the album continues on her reflective path starting with “Fool.” While pensive about the many ways her life has been lived, “Free Treasure'' provides a brief respite, touching delicately on the simple joys of human relationships, such as the quiet sharing of a cup of coffee or wine. But the record's core songs, “Vampire Empire'' and “EVOL,'' evocatively capture the push and pull of relationships, the internal conflicts that arise, and the ups and downs that lovers ultimately experience. As you turn the page, “Candleflame” and “Doughnut Seam” return to the simplicity of love, the longing for someone when you're broken up with, and the ease of a relationship when things are going well, before “Ruined” returns to the heartfelt The record ends with expression. About love and the conflicts that arise from vulnerability in the face of strong emotions.
Retaining Adrian's natural charm and love, Bright Future not only provides a grounded look at relationships, personal reflection, and the challenges that come with aging, but ultimately… also depicts the joy that can be found in casual moments with loved ones. It's a beautiful work of honesty, graced with appearances by friends such as Nick Hakim, Matt Davidson and Josephine Lansteen. For Adrianne, 10 years after her debut solo album, this feels like a milestone record of her maturity and grace. It is a testament to the relationships we all strive for and the highs and lows of intimacy we choose to commit to. A brave and deeply honest expression, this is a beautiful record that deftly captures the often confusing and contradictory emotions that come with being truly in love.