Ahead of Big Thief’s singer-songwriter Adrianne Lenker album Bright Future, dropping next week, she has today unveiled a new collection of songs, out now. The six-track body of demo songs called i won’t let go of your hand is available now on Bandcamp, to purchase but not to stream. All proceeds will go towards the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund.

Lenker shared a statement via Instagram about Israel’s war campaign in Palestine, attached to an image reading “CEASEFIRE NOW.” Her message reads:

Everything I think to say feels like it is less than a micro-fraction of the power that is needed to convey the message. I can’t express how sad and angry I am about this ongoing violence towards Palestinians. The killing must stop. The need for a ceasefire is beyond urgent. Permanent Ceasefire Now!

Today I’m releasing a new collection of songs I cherish, which were recorded in the moments they were written. You can purchase this record on Bandcamp, and 100% of the proceeds will go towards the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. link in bio.

 

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Lenker’s statement calling for a ceasefire comes two years after Big Thief’s Israel-related controversy. In 2022, the indie-rock outfit scheduled two performances in Tel Aviv, Israel, where their bassist Max Oleartchik was born and currently resides. The announcement of the concerts gave way to intense blowback on social media, which occasioned a statement from Big Thief in defence of their decision. As criticism and backlash ensued, they cancelled the concerts.

In a New York Times profile published yesterday, Lenker addressed the controversy. According to NYT, the ‘Shark Smile’ singer called it “naïve and not thought out” to assume that Big Thief could have played those shows without criticism, and described the inner turmoil that discussion spawned as something that could break up a band. She expressed gratitude that the experience granted a reminder that “All right, I have to work on myself, always.”

Cover for i won't let go of your hand. Artwork by Diane Lee

Next week, Lenker will release her new solo album Bright Future on 22 March via 4AD. The follow-up to 2020’s Songs and Instrumentals is led by the singles ‘Ruined,’ ‘Sadness as a Gift’ and ‘Fool.’