Released 8 years ago this October
Abysskiss
Adrianne Lenker · 2018
33 min · 10 tracks
Intimate, raw melodies intertwine with poignant lyricism, capturing a sense of fragile beauty and introspection.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
from — This track stands out for its haunting vocal delivery and minimalistic instrumentation, encapsulating the album's themes of longing and introspection.
-
→
womb — In just over two minutes, this piece conveys profound vulnerability through its delicate arrangement and poignant lyrics about comfort and protection.
-
→
abyss kiss — The title track serves as the emotional centerpiece of the album, blending ethereal soundscapes with visceral imagery that deeply resonates with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Abysskiss showcases strong songwriting and intimate arrangements, making it a notable entry in Lenker's discography.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of fingerpicked guitar patterns that create a delicate, intimate atmosphere throughout.
- Lenker's vocal delivery often employs soft dynamics, with several tracks featuring layered harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- Most songs are structured around simple verse-chorus forms, but they frequently incorporate unexpected shifts in melody and rhythm.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- intimate late-night reflections
- short, contemplative listening sessions
- emotional storytelling journeys
- hauntingly personal atmospheres
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Abysskiss is Adrianne Lenker's first solo album following her work with Big Thief, marking a significant moment in her artistic evolution. Released in October 2018, it came after the band's critically acclaimed albums, U.F.O.F. and Two Hands, further establishing her as a distinctive voice in indie music.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Big Thief· Phoebe Bridgers· Julien Baker
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
what can you say
The verse shifts to confront existential questions directly, creating an intimate dialogue with the listener about the nature of understanding.
This direct address breaks from previous abstract musings in the album, heightening the emotional connection by challenging listeners to reflect on their own experiences.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 terminal paradise 3:59
- 2 from 3:38
- 3 womb 2:15
- 4 out of your mind 3:51
- 5 cradle 3:17
- 6 symbol 3:49
- 7 blue and red horses 3:17
- 8 abyss kiss 3:03
- 9 what can you say 2:28
- 10 10 miles 4:01
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.