Epic indie rock. This fourth studio album from Asheville singer-songwriter Angel Olsen sees her maturing in her craft—lyrics take on a nostalgic edge and her characteristic grand vocal hooks are taken to new heights with the accompaniment of a 14-piece string ensemble. Mysterious gothic elements stain the record with a dusky verdigris that adds layers of complexity to its deceptive accessibility. A really interesting take on the genre.

RIYL: Sharon Van Etten, Jessica Pratt, Weyes Blood, Snail Mail
FCC: 6, 9, 10
TRY: 2, 3

(1.) (6:18) Cathartic, and unflinching with passionate vocals
(*2.) (4:42) Top-notch chamber pop with soaring vocals and floaty synth lines
(*3.) (2:57) Seductive love song with incredible vocal melodies and a chill, groovy beat
(*4.) (3:26) Chugging synth beat and satin ribbon vocals
(5.) (3:23) Bouncy sing-songy. Lyrics about aging and mature romance
(6.) (3:16) (FCC) Galloping beat with zippy strings and finger-pointing crooned vocals
(7.) (4:23) Unhurried, moody with a slow crescendo
(8.) (4:38) Slow, reflective
(9.) (4:05) (FCC) Atmospheric, with great instrumentation and swaggering vocals
(10.) (5:19) (FCC) dim-the-lights slow dance with cinematic strings and airy vocals
(*11.) (5:59) Beautiful piano ballad