1xLP on Black Vinyl

My Soft Machine embraces more sophisticated, contemporary pop production and a wider variety of sounds. "Impurities" sports a faded, atmospheric hip-hop beat, backing Parks' low-key but empowering "I radiate like a star, like a star, star, star" refrain. Though she doesn't make aggressive music (yet), Parks seems delighted to let off some steam with the wailing alt-rock guitars and vocal distortion of "Devotion." On the neon-tinged disco bop "Blades," she yearns for the sound of her partner's voice, presumably while she's on tour somewhere far away. On "Weightless," easily her most ambitious song to date, she sounds on the verge of tears as she begs for validation from someone who barely acknowledges her. At least as dramatic is the breakup lament "Room (Red Wings)," which lives up to its chorus ("without you, I'm devastated"). Though the feelings of longing, heartache, and hopelessness seem inescapable, there are still moments of joy and satisfaction, such as the Phoebe Bridgers-featuring "Pegasus," which feels like a relaxed hang-out between two close friends, and the sunny, shoegaze-inspired "Dog Rose." My Soft Machine hits differently than Collapsed in Sunbeams, but it's still a powerful effort that packs more emotional weight while expanding the singer/songwriter's stylistic range.

Bruiseless    
Impurities    
Devotion    
Blades    
Purple Phase    
Weightless    
Pegasus    
Dog Rose    
Puppy    
I'm Sorry    
Room (Red Wings)    
Ghost