Phoebe Bridgers' 'Lost Weekend' is a treasure trove of musical references, a testament to her deep appreciation for the artists who have influenced her. From subtle nods to iconic anthems, Bridgers weaves a tapestry of musical connections throughout her album, creating a rich and layered soundscape. Here's a deep dive into some of the Easter eggs and references that make 'Lost Weekend' a true masterpiece of musical storytelling.
Elliott Smith's Legacy
One of the most prominent references is the haunting 'Angel in the Snow' from Elliott Smith's posthumous compilation, 'New Moon'. Bridgers' song 'Still Standing' opens with the line 'An angel in the snow/Accident prone', a direct echo of Smith's poignant lyrics. This connection is not coincidental; Bridgers has been an avid fan of Smith's work, even inscribing lyrics from an early version of 'Miss Misery' on the Figure 8 memorial wall in Los Angeles. The 'angel in the snow' phrase, a title track from 'New Moon', further cements the influence of Smith's music on Bridgers' songwriting.
Damien Jurado's Collaboration
'Lost Weekend' and its reprise showcase a unique collaboration with Damien Jurado, a singer-songwriter from the Pacific Northwest. Jurado's 'The Last Great Washington State' inspired the melody and structure of these tracks, earning him a co-writing credit. This collaboration highlights Bridgers' willingness to draw from diverse musical influences and create something new and exciting.
The Replacements' Influence
The Replacements' 'Can't Hardly Wait' is another intriguing reference. The chorus of 'I Can't Wait' on 'Lost Weekend' bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Replacements song. Bridgers' previous experimentation with the same song's chorus in 'Chesapeake' further strengthens the connection. Her live performances, including the cover of 'Can't Hardly Wait', showcase her love for the Replacements and their impact on her musical journey.
Rock & Roll Classics
'Lost Weekend (Reprise)' pays homage to the timeless rock & roll classic 'I Fought the Law'. The song's lyrics, 'I am my old man's oldest son/I fought the wall, and the wall won', echo the original's narrative of rebellion and its consequences. This reference adds a layer of depth to the album, connecting Bridgers' personal experiences to the broader themes of youth and resistance.
Conor Oberst's Connections
Conor Oberst, a fellow musician and friend, is also referenced throughout 'Lost Weekend'. The song 'Haunted' includes the line 'I've been daydreaming about sleeping/But by the evening, I'm wide awake', a subtle nod to Oberst's album 'I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning'. Additionally, Oberst plays harmonica on 'I Can't Wait', further emphasizing their musical bond. The album's title track, 'Governor's Waltz', might also be a play on Oberst's song 'Governor's Ball', adding another layer of intrigue.
Country and Rock Influences
'Liberty Tree' features the title 'My Past Is Looking Brighter (All The Time)', a line borrowed from the Statler Brothers' song. This reference showcases Bridgers' appreciation for country music and its ability to convey complex emotions. The album also includes a Black Sabbath reference with the line 'Now I don't want to live forever/But I don't wanna die' from 'As Above', echoing the iconic 'Live Forever' from Sabbath's final studio album, '13'.
Self-Referential Genius
One of the most intriguing references is 'Graceland Too', a song that serves as a sonic connective tissue throughout the album. The melody is a recurring motif, tying together various tracks. Bridgers' self-referential nature is evident here, as the phrase 'rebel without a clue' from her own song 'Punisher' has been used by other artists, including Bonnie Tyler, the Replacements, and Tom Petty. This meta-reference adds a layer of postmodern fun and complexity to the album's narrative.
In conclusion, Phoebe Bridgers' 'Lost Weekend' is a masterpiece of musical storytelling, filled with subtle and not-so-subtle references to her heroes. From Elliott Smith to Damien Jurado, Conor Oberst to Black Sabbath, Bridgers weaves a rich tapestry of musical influences, creating an album that resonates with fans and critics alike. Her ability to pay homage to the past while crafting a unique and captivating sound is a testament to her artistic genius.
