Latest album by Father John Misty embodies appreciation
2 mins read

Latest album by Father John Misty embodies appreciation

Father John Misty’s latest record “I Love You, Honeybear” is a new breed of regretful, lesson-learned, apologetic songs that let the past release you and make you appreciate what you have.

It’s a concept record about Josh Tillman — Father John Misty’s alter ego, and his relationship with his wife, Emma.

The record is 44 minutes long and was released Feb. 10. It’s filled with acoustic-folk, soft-dance melodies that make you visualize a theatrical romance.

The first track, “I Love You, Honeybear,”draws a picture of his perpetual love for his wife. The lyrics describe vivid sexual acts that are strikingly vivid as you listen to the melody.

Each song has a noticeably different mood, while most of the songs on this record deal with his wife, but each one describes a monumental moment. The second track “Chateau Lobby #4 (in C for Two Virgins),” describes the time Father John Misty and his wife first met.

This record is certainly a Valentine’s Day gift his wife will always cherish. The story is loud and clear. The complexity of Father John Misty’s character interfering with the relationship with his wife is a relatable tale for listeners with similar intimacy issues.

The concept of the songs gets cheesy and drags on, but Father John Misty gives his listener a break from the compendium of love with the track “Bored in the USA” — a twist on Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” with a down-and-out perspective about the normal desires and qualities of American life.

It seems to be a poetic rant of the economic struggle one faces — going to college, taking out loans, etc. He describes debt as a prescription that you can’t get off of but eventually learn to deal with.

The concept comes back from intermission, with the track “Holy S***,” which is about the overwhelming feelings he felt on his wedding day. It is a track that captures the struggle of decision making.

Father John Misty’s voice amplifies his personality effortlessly, although it’s hard to take serious when you realize it is the same as Hozier’s. The orchestral structure of the songs can make you feel like you’re watching a musical with your eyes shut with only your imagination to interpret what’s happening on stage.

This album is for people who are looking for a concept album about the struggle and emotions that lead to an everlasting love.