Arriving 5 years after a one-off EP and quick promotional tour, the debut album from this trio comprised of indie-leaning singer-songwriters Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker was one of the most anticipated of 2023. Fulfilling the supergroup promise, the file didn’t disappoint, due to its breezy three-part harmonies and susceptible lyrics. With its strident acoustic strumming and pangs of self-doubt (“I don’t know why I’m the method I’m”), “Not Strong Sufficient” completely encapsulates boygenius’ sound and message. Thematically, the music appears to handle inferiority complexes and how you can handle your personal expectations and feelings whereas coping with your personal shit (“All the time an angel / By no means a God”). This sense of uncertainty is universally relatable, a high quality that propelled boygenius to unlikely mainstream visibility and an eye-popping eight Grammy nominations this yr.
Extra from Spin:
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- Editors’ Picks: The Best (& Worst) of Everything Else in 2023
- Boygenius Covers ‘The Parting Glass’ In Honor Of Sinéad O’Connor
To see our working listing of the high 100 biggest rock stars of all time, click here.
