Possible Dust Clouds cover

Possible Dust Clouds

Kristin Hersh · 2018

36 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A introspective blend of raw emotion and intricate storytelling woven through haunting melodies and earthy instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    LAX — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its contemplative lyrics about longing and the transient nature of life, embodying the overarching themes present throughout.
  • →
    No Shade in Shadow — The track features a haunting chorus that captures the essence of isolation and introspection, making it a poignant reflection on personal struggles.
  • →
    Tulum — In this song, Hersh juxtaposes vibrant imagery with somber reflections, creating a narrative that resonates with anyone who has sought solace in fleeting moments.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends introspective lyrics with rich instrumentation, creating a compelling but not experience.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies that create an atmospheric depth, particularly in 'Lethe' and 'Breathe In'.
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
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • haunting atmosphere for introspection
  • short tracks for quick sessions
  • yearning tones for quiet nights

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy excitement
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2018, Possible Dust Clouds is Kristin Hersh's first album following a five-year hiatus after her last solo project, Crooked. At this point in her career, Hersh was reconnecting with her roots in alternative rock while exploring new sonic landscapes. This album showcases her evolution as an artist, blending personal narratives with broader themes of displacement and connection.
Stylistic neighbors
Liz Phair· Neko Case· Sharon Van Etten

Tracklist

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

  • 1 LAX 3:50
  • 2 No Shade in Shadow 3:34
  • 3 Halfway Home 3:58
  • 4 Fox Point 3:12
  • 5 Lethe 3:50
  • 6 Loud Mouth 3:33
  • 7 Gin 2:47
  • 8 Tulum 3:45
  • 9 Breathe In 3:20
  • 10 Lady Godiva 4:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata