Acid Tongue cover

Acid Tongue

Jenny Lewis · 2008

47 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and rich melodies, merging folk-rock influences with a modern pop sensibility.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Acid Tongue — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, combining haunting melodies with a narrative about self-reflection and the complexities of relationships.
  • →
    The Next Messiah — This track stands out with its expansive length and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of hope and disillusionment against a backdrop of lush instrumentation.
  • →
    Pretty Bird — An uplifting anthem that contrasts vulnerability with strength, showcasing Lewis's knack for blending poignant storytelling with catchy pop hooks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but follows familiar indie rock templates.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic richness.
  • The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and storytelling, with recurring themes of introspection and personal struggle.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • introspective late-night vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2008, Acid Tongue was Jenny Lewis's second solo album, following her debut Rabbit Fur Coat in 2006. At this point, she had already established herself as a prominent figure in the indie rock scene through her work with Rilo Kiley. The album reflects an evolution in her sound and songwriting, showcasing her ability to blend personal narratives with broader themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Neko Case· Feist· Laura Marling

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Black Sand 2:53
  • 2 Pretty Bird 3:46
  • 3 The Next Messiah 8:47
  • 4 Bad Man's World 3:40
  • 5 Acid Tongue 3:54
  • 6 See Fernando 3:33
  • 7 Godspeed 4:32
  • 8 Carpetbaggers 3:33
  • 9 Trying My Best to Love You 3:07
  • 10 Jack Killed Mom 5:27
  • 11 Sing a Song for Them 4:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata