Horsegirl’s Phonetics On and On: A Sonic Exploration of Change

Opening with a Question

Horsegirl launches their second album, Phonetics On and On, with an engaging inquiry. In the upbeat track “Where’d You Go?”, singer-guitarist Penelope Lowenstein asks the titular question, which is promptly answered by fellow singer-guitarist Nora Cheng: “Far, far, far away.” This exchange reflects the evolution of the Chicago-based indie-rock trio, now navigating the complexities of young adulthood after moving across the country for college. With drummer Gigi Reece focusing on zines while awaiting her bandmates’ graduation, Lowenstein and Cheng delve into their English studies at New York University, cultivating a passion for linguistics that permeates the new album.

A Home-Away-From-Home Album

Phonetics On and On encapsulates the freedom, uncertainty, and transformations that accompany leaving one’s familiar surroundings. The album features Lowenstein and Cheng trading vocal duties, tackling themes of awkward crushes in “Well I Know You’re Shy” and the perplexities of adulthood in “In Twos.” Their lyrics, often reminiscent of a heavily redacted diary, introduce intriguing characters—like a welder fixing a pipe or a shepherd transporting flowers for their pleasant aroma. While Horsegirl has always exuded confidence, their lyrical approach presents a sense of ambiguity, inviting listeners to engage in a search for deeper meanings amidst the obscurity.

Deconstructing Language through Sound

One of the standout features of Horsegirl’s work is their frequent use of non-lexical vocables such as “do” and “fa la la.” While these elements serve as effective harmonic fillers within Lowenstein and Cheng’s understated delivery, they also represent a deliberate deconstruction of language itself. The track “Information Content” acts as a guide to the album’s overarching themes, with Cheng articulating her textural choices as a means of translating conversation into musical tones. She encourages listeners to form their own interpretations or to embrace the ambiguity of spaces left unfilled, as encapsulated in the playful lines, “All you got’s ahoo ahoo ahoo/’Cause all I give’s ahoo ahoo ahoo.”

Musical Influences and Evolution

Much of the initial acclaim surrounding Horsegirl, particularly for their debut Versions of Modern Performance, stemmed from their insightful homage to indie rock icons and lesser-known ’90s bands. Their collaboration with Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo and Steve Shelley on that album highlighted their musical pedigree. While the trio achieved their dream of signing with Matador Records, Phonetics On and On leans toward the softer, more whimsical sounds reminiscent of Flying Nun, Electrelane, and Stereolab. Tracks like “Frontrunner,” with its country twang and acoustic strumming, alongside the buoyant melodies of “Switch Over,” reflect Horsegirl’s newfound admiration for classic songwriters such as Bob Dylan and Al Green. Although the band continues to draw from their extensive musical knowledge, their application of these influences feels fresh and original.

Conclusion

With Phonetics On and On, Horsegirl has crafted a compelling exploration of the complexities of youth, change, and the nuances of language. Their ability to blend playful experimentation with introspective lyrics showcases their growth as musicians and storytellers. As they navigate their new lives away from Chicago, the trio invites listeners to join them on this journey of discovery, wrapped in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative.

FAQs

What themes are explored in Phonetics On and On?

The album delves into themes of youth, change, awkward crushes, and the ambiguities of adulthood, all presented through a unique lyrical lens.

How does the album reflect the band’s evolution?

As the members have transitioned from high school to college, their music has shifted to incorporate new influences, showcasing a blend of indie rock with elements of classic songwriting.

What is the significance of the non-lexical vocables used in the album?

The non-lexical vocables serve both as harmonic fillers and a means of exploring the deconstruction of language, encouraging listeners to engage with the music on a deeper level.

Which musical influences are evident in this album?

The album draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including indie rock legends, the softer sounds of Flying Nun, Electrelane, Stereolab, and classic songwriters like Bob Dylan and Al Green.