Singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers has received an increase of attention following her debut on SNL, where she smashed her guitar at the end of her song “I Know The End.” Along with this song, Bridgers also performed another hit, “Kyoto”, which both come from her sophomore album Punisher.

   Punisher was released in June of 2020 and earned Bridgers four Grammy nominations. The title of the album itself is a word which Bridgers uses to describe overbearing fans. Elliot Smith, deceased singer, is the subject of the title track, Bridgers stated her concerns that is she ever met Smith, she would be a “punisher” and his “eyes would glaze over” when she tried to talk to him.

Bridgers’s album is incredibly personal and multi-dimensional. Songs on Punisher explore a variety of themes, from failed relationships to having no sense of faith. Bridgers switches styles of instrumentals and production to complement her complex lyrics. For example, “Graceland Too” is a folksy, banjo-led ballad, while “I Know The End” features a guitar solo and screaming vocals.

However, Phoebe Bridgers’s lyric-writing may be the most impressive aspect of her music. Bridgers lyrics seem to yield new meaning upon every listen. In “Moon Song”, Bridgers explores a failing relationship through the lyrics like, “I will wait for the next time you want me/like a dog with a bird at your door.” Her poetry-like lyrics are sure to provide insight into her mind with every song.

With exposure from SNL and the popularity of her latest album Punisher, Phoebe Bridgers is an artist that will only continue to grow in the music industry.