NEW ALBUM: THE LUMINEERS | BRIGHTSIDE

Though 2022 may not have started as calmly as we all had hoped with the new COVID Omicron surge, politics and hospitalizations do seem to be slightly more under control than 12 months ago. With winter in full swing and Christmas music making its way down the charts, it’s time for the first major releases of 2022. And The Lumineers have decidedly kicked things off with an optimistic take. "Brightside," their fourth studio album, finds the band in somewhat familiar territory with lyrics often about minute moments of romance. This time, the music is more electric and fuller than their previous releases. Quiet drumming is paired with an electric guitar on the opening title track. It tells a story of commitment through the good times and the uncertain ones. “Brightside” features a more electric and produced sound than some listeners of The Lumineers may be familiar with. Still, it works well, especially paired with succinct scenic descriptions like, “I was stranded in the bed/ You were listening to ‘The Dark Side of the Moon/ I could barely see your eyes.” The Lumineers make the perfect style of music to listen to this time of year. It’s warm and comforting, and the band aims to spread love throughout its songwriting. The two are not seeking revenge, nor are they heartbroken. If you get sent into quarantine, take a listen to "Brightside," as it will undoubtedly be an uplifting and easygoing 30 minutes of your time.