Lucy Dacus Emphasizes Love in Latest Solo Album
Lucy Dacus, known for her work in the group Boygenius alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker, has stepped into the spotlight with her latest solo effort, “Forever Is a Feeling.” In this fourth album, Dacus delves into the complexities of love with a level of vulnerability that is both arresting and raw.
Discussing the album, Dacus shares how exploring themes of love and sexuality felt like uncharted territory for her. Growing up, she grappled with the pressures of conforming to societal standards as a daughter, friend, student, Christian, and girlfriend. The fear of embracing her true self and acknowledging her desires led her to adopt a people-pleasing persona. However, Dacus realized the manipulative nature of these behaviors and learned the importance of acting from a place of authenticity rather than seeking external validation.
The opening track of the album, “Big Deal,” captures a poignant moment when a close friend expressed romantic feelings for Dacus. Initially, her instinct was to brush off the confession and maintain the status quo. This avoidance of confronting emotions and avoiding change was a recurring pattern for Dacus. However, she eventually embraced the idea of surrendering to love, allowing the album to take shape around this central theme.
Throughout “Forever Is a Feeling,” Dacus takes listeners on a journey that is as diverse musically as it is emotionally. Tracks like “Limerence” showcase a dreamy, introspective side of Dacus, while songs like “Best Guess” delve into the uncertainties of new relationships with a more upbeat vibe. The collaboration with Hozier on “Bullseye” adds another dimension to the album, blending Dacus’s introspective storytelling with Hozier’s soulful vocals seamlessly.
When it came to the album’s cover art, Dacus opted for a handcrafted approach, shying away from the digital artwork that inundates modern media. The cover features an oil portrait by Will St. John, portraying Dacus in a classical, saintlike manner. This departure from conventional beauty standards reflects Dacus’s preference for timeless elegance over the fleeting trends of social media aesthetics.
The title of the album, “Forever Is a Feeling,” symbolizes the impermanence of love and the continuous choice to stay committed to one another. Dacus’s decision to have the title drawn on her skin in eyeliner for the cover art emphasizes the transient nature of love and the evanescence of artistic expression. In her own words, Dacus hopes that the music speaks for itself, transcending her explanations and intentions to resonate with listeners on a deeper level.
“Forever Is a Feeling” marks a significant progression in Lucy Dacus’s career, showcasing her evolution as both an artist and an individual. Through her honest and introspective lyrics, Dacus invites listeners to explore the complexities of love, vulnerability, and self-acceptance, making this album a truly compelling and impactful musical experience.