Album Review: Bess Atwell, Light Sleeper

Made in collaboration with The National founder and producer du jour Aaron Dessner, Brighton singer-songwriter Bess Atwell’s Light Sleeper is the perfect follow-up to 2021’s Already, Always. Raw and fearless, it finds Atwell at her most vulnerable.

Opening with the devastating love ballad ‘Everyone Who’s Not In Love With You Is Wrong’, the record is infused throughout with heart and soul. Early highlight ‘Release Myself’ is a vibrant testament to Atwell’s skill as a vocalist and storyteller, reminiscent of folk-pop stars Maggie Rogers and Kacey Musgraves. Another highlight arrives with the sweeping climax of ‘Crowds’, a declaration of agency that hits home for those of us struggling to let go of the past.

Overall, Light Sleeper is a leap of faith for the young singer, forgoing the trends of the day in favour of a more direct approach. The result is a wonderful album from an artist who continues to scale impressive new heights.

Listen to Light Sleeper here!