On
Turn Out The Lights (2017), American singer-songwriter Julien Baker dealt with heavy themes of self-loathing and depression, framed by beautiful guitar and piano music. Following the release of that album, she played with
Phoebe Bridgers and
Lucy Dacus in the group Boygenius. Perhaps she brought a fuller sound from that collaboration to this album, because her compositions sound warmer and more
… organic than before. That pushes the melancholy character of her lyrics a bit to the background, although they do have an important message. Baker grew up in a strict religious family and is a lesbian. This left its mark on her youth and echoes heavily in her music. The vulnerable side of herself on Little Oblivions is wrapped up in rich yet intimate compositions that reveal many emotions. Baker played almost all instruments on this album herself. (JvQ)more
