In the world of music, artists often pay homage to their influences and heroes, and Phoebe Bridgers is no exception. Her new album, 'Lost Weekend', is a treasure trove of Easter eggs and subtle references to the musicians who have shaped her songwriting journey. Let's dive into some of these hidden gems and explore the fascinating narrative they weave.
Unveiling the Easter Eggs
Elliott Smith's Angelic Presence
The opening track, 'Still Standing', hints at Bridgers' deep admiration for Elliott Smith. The line 'An angel in the snow/Accident prone' is a clear nod to Smith's 'Angel in the Snow' from the 'New Moon' compilation. This reference is not just a random choice; it reflects Bridgers' long-standing love for Smith's music and her desire to honor his legacy.
Damien Jurado: The Unsung Hero
Damien Jurado, a talented yet under-appreciated singer-songwriter, makes a significant impact on 'Lost Weekend'. The melodies of 'Lost Weekend' and its reprise are directly inspired by Jurado's 'The Last Great Washington State'. This interpolation not only showcases Bridgers' respect for Jurado's work but also adds a unique layer to her own album.
Intertextual Influences
The Replacements' Wait Game
'I Can't Wait' seems to draw inspiration from The Replacements' iconic 'Can't Hardly Wait'. Bridgers' previous play with the same chorus on 'Chesapeake' further strengthens this connection. It's a clever nod to a classic, and a testament to Bridgers' ability to weave influences seamlessly into her own work.
Rock & Roll's Eternal Battle
'Lost Weekend (Reprise)' takes us on a journey through grief with a reference to 'I Fought the Law'. Originally by The Crickets, this rock classic has been reinterpreted by various artists, including The Bobby Fuller Four and The Clash. Bridgers' use of this line adds a layer of depth and emotion to the song.
A Conor Oberst Connection
Bright Eyes' Morning Awakening
On 'Haunted', Bridgers sings 'I've been daydreaming about sleeping/But by the evening, I'm wide awake'. This line echoes the title of Conor Oberst's 'I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning', suggesting a subtle tribute to her collaborative partner. It's a beautiful way to acknowledge their shared musical journey.
Beyond the Obvious
The Statler Brothers' Bright Past
'Liberty Tree' features a line that closely resembles the title of The Statler Brothers' 'My Past Is Looking Brighter (All The Time)'. While it may be a coincidence, it adds an intriguing layer to the song's narrative.
Black Sabbath's Eternal Rock
Bridgers' love for Black Sabbath is evident in her reference to 'Live Forever' on 'As Above'. This connection showcases her appreciation for the pioneers of heavy metal and how their influence extends beyond their genre.
A Self-Referential Twist
'Graceland Too', a fan favorite from 'Punisher', makes an appearance on 'Lost Weekend' as a recurring musical motif. Bridgers' self-referential callback adds a layer of postmodern fun and a unique narrative thread to the album.
Final Thoughts
'Lost Weekend' is a masterpiece of musical storytelling, where every song is a chapter in a larger narrative. Bridgers' ability to incorporate these subtle references and Easter eggs adds depth and richness to her work. It's a testament to her talent and her deep connection to the music that has inspired her. Personally, I think these hidden gems make the album even more captivating and worth multiple listens to uncover all the layers.
