Lizzy McAlpine released her fourth studio album “Angel” last Friday after two years of anticipation, giving fans an indie-folk album that paints themes of love and longing through her creative lyricism. 

The 14-track album follows McAlpine’s typical sound with haunting vocals and stories told through metaphors and poetic lyrics. Her albums typically have a more indie-pop sound, but this one strays from that pattern by using folkier instrumentals like fretless guitars and a Mellotron. 

“Angel” includes several love songs, but they’re not always happy. “I have a friend” is about falling in love with someone who’s also your best friend, and it might be the only happy love song on the album. 

“A car wash and a new pair of pants” is a more upbeat tune, but a deep listen to the lyrics reveal an ex-boyfriend’s search for attention and how he used her for her fame. The song is actually really fun and has potential in my eyes to be a great break up anthem. 

“Over country” is perhaps the album’s most popular song and it’s currently being used as a TikTok trend to showcase long-distance friendships and relationships. This is probably my favorite song on the album, too. I love a song with good lyricism, and this has it. It’s catchy and simple guitar melody quickly put it on my fall playlist. 

Two other songs are stand-outs in “Angel” for their unique dedications. If you have a close sibling or best friend, “Mason’s song” might hit a little harder. It’s about the close relationship McAlpine has formed with her co-producer Mason Stoops and their bond over the years. 

As with every one of McAlpine’s albums, the 13th track is dedicated to her late father, who passed on March 13, 2020. “The crowd” is her song about trying to make her dad proud of her. A real tearjerker, I must say. 

The album gets a little repetitive as the songs tend to sound very similar and blend together, but perhaps it takes more familiarity to distinguish the differences. 

Overall, “Angel” is another success for Lizzy McAlpine. I’ve written this entire article with it on loop, so I can say that it’s great for working or relaxing. Consider it added to my Spotify.

Official Score: 8/10

Categories: Arts & Entertainment