We are seeing Gracie Abrams further maturing as a songwriter with songs like ‘Hit the Wall’, ‘The Knife’, ‘Look at My Life’, ‘Good Reason’, and ‘Cold Goodbyes’. They have emotional depth and much sharper lyricism than on her previous album.

The National’s Aaron Dessner (yes, one of the twins) did all that was asked of him. His production blends with her record’s reflective nature.

I cannot fault Aaron Dessner and Dan Nigro’s production, but it’s just too safe.

The majority of the songs have that all-too-familiar muted, mid-tempo sound, which drags the album, and it lasts for almost an hour.

Her writing has further improved, but “Daughter from Hell” does not take any risks. Instead of capturing your ear and imagination, it acts as background music.

A well-made record, but far too often my concentration wandered. I hope next time she has some more bold ideas.

Song recommendations: ‘Hit the Wall’, ‘Cold Goodbyes’, ‘The Knife’

6/10