Big Thief

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
To my UFO friend
Goodbye, goodbye
Like a seed in the wind
She's taking up root in the sky
See her flickering
Her system won't even try
To defend and ripen
In the radio action

[Verse 2]
She'll never return again
Polarize, polarize
The seasons will bend
There will soon be proof
That there is no alien
Just a system of truth and lies
The reason, the language
And the law of attraction

[Chorus]
Just like a bad dream
You'll disappear
Another map turns blue
Mirror on mirror
And I imagine you
Taking me outta here
To deepen our love
It isn't even a fraction
[Verse 3]
Switch to another lens
The last sunlight
I don't need any other friends
The best kiss I ever had is the flickering
Of the water so clear and bright
To leap in, my skin
And I could feel the reaction

[Chorus]
Just like a bad dream
You'll disappear
Another map turns blue
Mirror on mirror
And I imagine you
Taking me outta here
To deepen our love
It isn't even a fraction

[Instrumental Break]

[Chorus]
Just like a bad dream
You'll disappear
Another map turns blue
Mirror on mirror
And I imagine you
Taking me outta here
To deepen our love
It isn't even a fraction

In the vast realm of music, there are albums that strike a deep chord within us, touching our souls and leaving an indelible mark. One such album is UFOF by Big Thief. Led by the enigmatic Adrianne Lenker, Big Thief takes us on a transcendent journey through their intricate melodies and evocative lyrics. UFOF, an acronym for Unidentified Flying Object Friend, encapsulates Lenker's profound exploration of the unknown, the otherworldly, and our connection to the mysteries that lie beyond our comprehension.

As Lenker aptly describes, UFOF symbolizes those intangible aspects of life that exist outside of ourselves and defy our understanding. It represents the fleeting nature of relationships, the impermanence of our physical forms, and the ephemeral essence of existence itself. By embracing the concept of finitude and making friends with the Other, Big Thief crafts a truly immersive musical experience that resonates deep within our beings.

With a heartrending honesty and vulnerability, Lenker's lyrics weave tales of love, loss, longing, and introspection. Each song on UFOF invites us to confront our own attachments and the transitory nature of our existence. The album's title track, "UFOF," gently opens the door to this introspective journey, setting the tone for what lies ahead. Lenker's ethereal voice, floating over a delicate tapestry of acoustic guitars and subtle percussion, draws us into a world where time seems to stand still.

Throughout UFOF, Big Thief seamlessly blends folk, indie rock, and hints of Americana, creating a unique sonic landscape that is both haunting and comforting. Tracks like "Cattails" and "Strange" captivate with their mesmerizing melodies, showcasing the band's ability to effortlessly intertwine introspection with infectious hooks. The ethereal harmonies and intricate guitar work throughout the album lend an air of otherworldliness, immersing the listener in a dreamscape that mirrors the enigmatic title.

One of the standout moments on UFOF is the haunting "Terminal Paradise." Here, Lenker's lyrical prowess shines as she paints vivid pictures with her words, delving into the depths of human emotion. The song builds gradually, with haunting instrumentation and mesmerizing vocals, culminating in a climactic release that leaves a lasting impact. Each track on UFOF unfolds like a chapter in a captivating story, each moment building on the last, drawing us further into Big Thief's sonic universe.

Big Thief: Masters of Emotion

With UFOF, Big Thief continues their sonic exploration, solidifying their position as masters of emotion. Lenker's songwriting is nothing short of masterful, capturing the beauty found in life's fleeting moments. The introspective and philosophical nature of her lyrics is reminiscent of the great poets of yore, painting pictures with words and evoking a myriad of emotions within the listener. Each verse feels intimate, as if Lenker is divulging her innermost thoughts, fears, and hopes to a confidant, creating a sense of connection that transcends mere music.

Accompanied by the skilled musicianship of her bandmates, Lenker's mesmerizing vocals are at the forefront of every song, revealing a vulnerability that is both captivating and powerful. The interplay between the instruments is seamless, creating a rich tapestry of sound that serves as the perfect backdrop for Lenker's ethereal voice. From the delicate acoustic picking to the subtle flourishes of electric guitar and the pulsating rhythms, each element works in harmony, enhancing the emotional impact of every lyric.

In a world where music often seems oversaturated and predictable, Big Thief's UFOF stands out as a refreshing and thought-provoking masterpiece. The album's poetic and introspective nature allows listeners to escape the confines of everyday life, immersing themselves in the enigmatic world crafted by Lenker and her bandmates. It challenges us to contemplate our existence, our impermanence, and the beauty that lies in the ephemeral.

UFOF is a rare gem in the musical landscape, a testament to Big Thief's unwavering commitment to authenticity and their willingness to delve into the depths of human emotion. With each delicate note and every heartfelt lyric, the album invites us to embrace the unknown, to make peace with the transient nature of our lives, and to find solace in the mysteries that lie beyond our comprehension. In the hands of Big Thief, a mere UFO becomes a vessel for profound self-reflection and a catalyst for embracing the beauty of the other.

• Release Date: February 26, 2019
• Artist: Big Thief