Lindsey Jordan is 18 years old, and Lush is the Maryland singer-songwriter's debut album under the Snail Mail moniker. Armed with a clear and powerful voice, Jordan details growing up: "the passing trends, the awkward house parties, the sick-to-your-stomach crushes and the heart wrenching breakups." Heard it all before? Yes, sure, but her masterful pacing, tension building, and "razor-sharp" writing makes for a very refreshing, spellbinding listen, "an emotional rollercoaster" that's audacious as it is intimate and thoughtful. As is the case with many young artists, Jordan started making her name in the DIY scene. What's impressive about Lush is the fact that raw, charming energy associated with home recordings is still much present, while the songs are poised and refined. Plenty of "moody rockers and soft-burning hooks," check out: "Heat Wave," "Pristine," "Speaking Terms," and "Let's Find An Out."

• includes custom inner sleeve
• download coupon
• also available: Snail Mail: Habit EP Vinyl 12"
• music label: Matador 2018

reviewed by rei kwondo 08/18