The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We Listening Party
Written by: Nicole Rivera
I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a listening party at a nearby record store, Volume Music, to experience Mitski’s new album. "The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We" was everything I expected it to be.
When entering the store, I was greeted and given an exclusive poster and wristband for those attending. While we waited for the clock to hit 6, we all got situated and comfortable around the store.
Once the opening song started, we were able to feel the mood of the album and eased into the listening experience. As always, Mitski’s vocals always have a way of bringing a calming aura, and it’s not difficult to begin enjoying the opening song.
Mitski is known for her heart-wrenching lyrics and the ability to deliver them in an even more devastating manner. During the song "Heaven," she showcases these talents as such. With a more moving rhythm, compared to "Bug Like an Angel," she delivers the lines: “As I sip on the rest of the coffee you left, a kiss left of you.” The happier tone of the song contrasts the lyrics that are in it and leaves the listener wondering what the ending of t9his story will be.
"I Don’t Like My Mind" is undoubtedly my favorite track from the album. She tragically speaks on how her thoughts seem to consume her, and in trying to stop this, she brings nothing but distractions onto herself. The lyric, “And it may be a few years, but you can bet it’s still there, waiting still for me to be left alone full of things that I’ve done,” is one that stood out to me.
A pattern that I’ve noticed throughout this album was the increase in volume during certain songs. There’s an instrumental part at the end of the song "The Deal" that she brings in to exaggerate the feel of the song. This was always a strategy that I enjoyed and admired when added to her music.
"I’m Your Man" is another one of the most devastating songs on this record. She proceeds to talk about how she’s sorry for having her past lover fall for her. The theme of this tune reminded me of a previous record, "Should’ve Been Me," where she expresses her guilt of not being the lover her past partner needed. Her apology seems raw and genuine. I find it very courageous to see how she expresses her regrets as the one who hurt the other party.
The end of the album ends on a much lighter note, with her expressing self-love and care. "I Love Me After You" shows her journey and progression towards self-love and begins to explain her process. Mitski can transfer these strong emotions into melodies that will have you experiencing the lyrics differently compared to just reading them.
From the beginning to the end, Mitski tells the story of her struggle with love altogether. With similar sounds to her earlier works, she makes a daring decision to express her vulnerabilities and insecurities. I left the store feeling a mix of emotions with the lyrics running through my head. It was a beautifully crafted album that easily earned its spot as one of her top works.