The Pitchfork review of the album Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers that came out in 2020 analyzes Bridgers’ new album, touches on specific songs and lyrics, as well as covers her inspiration, and growth throughout her career.
The writer, Sam Sodomsky, uses strong verbs when describing Bridger’s writing and emotions to connect with his audience. He also refers to her past music multiple times, as well as the singer’s personal views to lure the audience into the piece. For example when he speaks on how “Her songs can be autobiographical—2017’s “Motion Sickness” bluntly described an emotionally abusive relationship with a since-spurned, one-time mentor—but her writing is too self-aware and wide-ranging to feel confessional.” Sodomsky deeply analyzes Bridgers’ creative voice as well. When speaking on her he says “This impulse toward the candid, the multi-dimensional, has also come to define the sound of Bridgers’ music.” which helps an unfamiliar audience have a better sense of her as an artist.
The writer does seem to be slightly biased towards Bridgers herself. He speaks of her with high regards, commending her career and personality, but fails to provide any negative or neutral feedback on the album that he was reviewing. Instead he tends to go into rant-like spirals of praise. Therefore it created a critique that was less of a review on her album, and more of a review on her character.
Parts of this piece can offer as a good writing template for a critique. The writer had clear knowledge of the singer’s background and influences, as well as the background of certain songs and the inspiration for the album. Which gave an unfamiliar audience a greater opportunity to delve into the album. Also although his personal bias towards the artist created some inconsistency in the review, it did provide a true spark that brought the article to life. Overall it was a well executed piece that could provide as an exemplary template for a music review.
Discussion Questions
Do you think it is important to delve into the writer’s personal icons when reviewing an album?
Does an album critique provide a better review when the writer is biased towards the artist?
the pva creative writing review 