Musical Thesis: Father John Misty “Pure Comedy”

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At the center of every album is a musical thesis. This thesis can be the driving force behind the album, a theme that interweaves songs together, or a feeling you are left with after the very last song plays. With some albums, the thesis is easy to find. On others, it is hidden and requires you to be more than a passive listener. These reviews aren’t about rating an album. Instead, it is about uncovering a musical thesis.

Musical Thesis: Father John Misty “Pure Comedy”

“Pure Comedy” can often feel like someone has visited Earth, studied its people, and is reporting on all our flaws. At other times, it can be deeply introspective with the songwriter digging into his own flaws and delusions of grandeur. It can also point a finger at religion, pop-culture, and human interaction. Taken together, it is a brave album constructed like nothing I have heard before with songs unafraid of the 10-minute mark and some barely eclipsing two. As a whole collection, it forces you to listen intently and wrestle with the expressed opinion. You will not agree with everything Father John Misty has to say, but hopefully, you can celebrate the bravery to do so.

Be good to each other,

Nathan