Album Review: Snail Mail - 'Valentine'

Often labelled a prodigy since bursting onto the scene with her 2016 debut EP ‘Habit’ and incredible 2018 LP Lush, Lindsay Jordan has returned with Valentine.

Known for exploring heart-wrenching infatuation with raw candour and self-deprecating melodrama; Snail Mail’s sophomore offering is about far more than just love’s slippery grasp. Those shaky, obsessive early stages of a burgeoning relationship play a key role, but Jordan also bravely opens up about entering an alcohol rehab facility in Arizona.

Taking inspiration from the likes of queer art (Ammonite, The Favourite) and indie-rockers Julien Baker, Waxahatchee and Soccer Mommy; Jordan uses stunningly complex string arrangements on Valentine. Synth-laden pop gem ‘Ben Franklin’ injects sarcastic bravado while ‘Automate’ layers Snail Mail’s trademark emotionally eviscerating lyrics.

Opener ‘Valentine’ is a slow burning rock gem full of unequivocal yearning: “fuck being remembered, I was made for you”. ‘Madonna’ sees the Baltimore sensation’s guitar riffs come to life, while ‘c.et.al’ recalls endless late-nights and mental anguish. Jordan’s devoted fans won’t be let down by Valentine. Ironally, they’ll be even more obsessed.

Listen: ‘Ben Franklin’
9/10

Steam Valentine below, out now on Matador Records