Mitski - Be The Cowboy (Album Review)

This innovative indie pop artist has produced one of best and most creative albums of the year.

Two years since her last album, Mitski has become a favourite of indie fans, writing some of the cleverest lyrics and catchiest hooks. Proof of this are the two singles, "Geyser" and "Nobody", both infectious poppy tunes that you could both dance to or analyse the intense, personal and interesting lyricisms.

In fact, that's what makes this album so special. You get loads of generic indie music, but this album in original because of just how deeply personal it is to Mitski. All the songs offer insight into her thoughts, experiences and creative mind, aided by slight beats, cool synths and interesting chords and melodies on both piano and guitar. In fact, the simplicity and shortness of these songs only helps build the sense of intimacy between you and the songs.

Perhaps the most important song on here for Mitski is the closer "Two Slow Dancers", a ballad from the heart that illustrates exactly why she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of music.

One criticism of this album is the thin structure of the songs, many sounding 'incomplete' or 'underproduced'. I see where this is coming from and in the case of a song like "A Horse Named Cold Air" I understand why someone would say that, occasionally these songs lack a weight that other indie acts would usually deliver, either with a tense guitar riff or a strong synth lead. The latter is definitely present on the song "Washing Machine Heart", an absolute smash of a song and the fun pinnacle of the album.

Overall, I find this to be a great album that showcases diversity and wit throughout, with several highlights and standouts. The sounds range from pop to indie folk, with flares of synthpop and light alternative rock. It's an eclectic record that offer several slices into life as Mitski, be it depressing, joyous or indifferent. She showcases a range of developed ideas and emotions that all come together to make up one of the best albums of the year. This gets a strong 8 out of 10 from me.

Best Songs:
Geyser, Why Didn't You Stop Me?, A Pearl, Remember My Name, Nobody, Washing Machine Heart, Two Slow Dancers

Worst Song/s:
A Horse Named Cold Air