Dressed in Victorian era clothing, two lovers share a secret kiss behind closed doors, as betrayal waits on the other side. Lindsey Jordan appears in period clothing, she twirls her partner, looking towards the camera with a smile. With the haunting sound of swelling synth and raw vocals, Jordan leads viewers into Snail Mail’s latest project, “Valentine.”
As the music video for the opening track continues, tensions rise in the narrative along with the intensity of the vocals. “So why’d you try to erase me” Jordan sings out, slashing her lover’s throat then cradling her in her arms she continues, “Darling Valentine.”
Dark, artful and surprising, the song and video for the opening track is only an entry point to the awe that Jordan—the mastermind behind indie band Snail Mail—has to offer on “Valentine.” The album is a space of maturity and self-reflection, displaying growth from the ennui ballads of youth that characterized past releases.
Prior to “Valentine,” Snail Mail’s discography was a window into adolescent yearnings and the toll that heartbreak can have on one’s well-being. The lyrical content on “Valentine” is built on the same foundational concepts as the last release “Lush”—, longing, love, heartbreak, self discovery, addiction— yet the awe is in the increased honesty that spews form Jordan’s lyricism and the new perspective from which these topics are handled.
A sense of maturity is present in all aspects from instrumentation to vocal technique and lyrics. Following her time in rehab, Jordan writes from a place of complete vulnerability. On the second single released, “Ben Franklin,” Jordan sings, “Post rehab I’ve been feeling so small, I miss your attention I wish I could call.” Jordan exposes her most intimate thoughts and emotions, cutting deep as she speaks frankly about the feelings she, and most people, have experienced.
Much like on “Lush” and her EP that came before, “Habit,” Jordan explores themes such as heartbreak, love, desire, self discovery and addiction. Despite such similarities, the way that Jordan writes about such topics on “Valentine” displays an understanding that emotions are fleeting, despite how painful or difficult a situation may be. A somber tone, reminiscent of earlier releases, still hangs over certain tracks, but there is a sense of hope and assuredness that rises to the surface as well.
From the opening note of the first track, it is evident that Jordan has also taken steps towards a more attuned and sophisticated sound. While still catchy and surging with emotion, the album also incorporates new musical styles that display Jordan’s progression as a musician. Her vocals are deepened and more refined, while also delving into different techniques and pitches.
The vocals highlighted as the production is clearer and more balanced. The professionality of the mixing also allows for certain instruments to shine through. Jordan introduces string instruments which add sophistication to the album while synth adds a more modern touch. Bass lines are more jazz influenced and acoustic guitars play a larger role than ever before.
With an amalgamation of diverse instrumentation, matured vocals and a refreshing sense of honesty within the lyricism, Snail Mail steps into the next stage of the band’s career with “Valentine.” The album is proof of Jordan’s ability to create awe inspiring music from a place of growth.
“Valentine” is available on Spotify and Apple Music on Nov. 5. Listen to Snail Mail’s discography before the album’s release.
