Capacity is the second album by Big Thief, recorded in snowbound upstate New York with now-frequent collaborator Andrew Sarlo. The tracks on Capacity were generally played for the first time and then recorded on the very same day, lending a raw and immediate feel to each. The band is clearly led by lead guitar and vocalist Adrianne Lenker, but it’s impossible to deny the sonic chemistry she has with Buck Meek (guitar), Max Oleartchik (bass), and James Krivchenia (drums). “There is a darker darkness and a lighter light on this album,” Lenker explains. “The songs search for a deeper level of self-acceptance, to embrace the world within and without. I think Masterpiece began that process, as a reaction from inside the pain, whereas I feel Capacity examines the pain from the outside.” “Pretty Things” is all-encompassing acoustic guitar and Lenker’s distinct drawl, backed only by room tone and incidental texture. “Shark Smile” begins with a crash of ricocheting drums and surf-tinged guitar, leading the way to punchy drums and soft strums. “Mythological Beauty” begins with jauntry drumrolls and cheery cymbals, Lenker’s deadpan vocals slipping between layers of guitar interplay. Newly repressed on black vinyl via 4AD, packaged in a gatefold jacket with full lyrics and liner notes. Recommended.

• black vinyl pressing
• gatefold sleeve
  
• original release year: 2017
• music label: 4AD 2025

reviewed by HAMBURGLAR 02/2020