Brandi Carlile’s ‘Returning to Myself’ Is a Moving Look at Love, Mortality and the Search for the Heart of the Matter: Album Review

Brandi Carlile’s ‘Returning to Myself’ arrives as an introspective journey, offering listeners a profound exploration of love, mortality, and the often-elusive “heart of the matter.” This eighth solo release from the acclaimed singer-songwriter delves into weighty philosophical questions and intimate personal reflections, all while maintaining her signature blend of raw emotion and masterful musicianship.

Thematic Depth: Love, Loss, and Life’s Big Questions

From the album’s outset, Carlile invites contemplation. The title track, “Returning to Myself,” immediately grapples with themes of mortality and existential inquiry, questioning the grand design of fleeting lives. This sets a reflective tone that permeates much of the record, encouraging listeners to ponder their own existence and the transient nature of time. Carlile’s approach here feels less about finding definitive answers and more about the ongoing process of questioning and self-discovery.

While the album carries a thoughtful weight, its musical landscape is often gentle. It largely leans into a classic singer-songwriter aesthetic reminiscent of the 1970s, prioritizing acoustic textures and nuanced arrangements. This allows Carlile’s powerful voice and poignant lyrics to take center stage, creating an immersive experience where the listener is prompted to engage deeply with the narrative and emotional core of each song.

A Tapestry of Collaborations and Influences

Carlile’s ‘Returning to Myself’ is also notable for its collaborative spirit, particularly with producers Andrew Watt and Aaron Dessner, and featuring contributions from Justin Vernon. Andrew Watt, known for his work with rock acts, showcases a more restrained and ethereal touch here, allowing for delicate finger-picking and subtly layered instrumentation, particularly evident in the gradual build-up of the title track. This collaboration reveals a pleasing versatility, blending Watt’s capacity for grandeur with a more intimate soundscape.

Aaron Dessner’s influence is also palpable, especially in tracks he co-produced or co-wrote. His distinctive acoustic stylings, familiar from projects like Taylor Swift’s “Folklore,” provide a thoughtful foundation for Carlile’s melodies. “War With Time,” for instance, exemplifies this blend, featuring Dessner’s intricate acoustic riffing that perfectly complements Carlile’s evocative storytelling. The album even features moments where the distinct sounds of Watt and Dessner converge seamlessly, such as in “No One Knows Us,” which transitions from Dessner’s acoustic minimalism to a more expansive Watt-esque jam, underlining the cohesive yet diverse production approach.

The album further draws inspiration from iconic figures, most notably Joni Mitchell. Carlile’s admiration for Mitchell is evident not only in musical echoes — from distinctive vocal phrasings to playing styles — but also through a dedicated track titled “Joni.” This homage goes beyond simple imitation, incorporating “Mitchell-isms” like out-of-time rhythms and specific horn solos, while offering a tender yet honest portrait of the legendary artist.

Song-by-Song Reflections

“Returning to Myself”: A Philosophical Opening

The album opens with its title track, “Returning to Myself,” framed as an internal dialogue. It explores the tension between solitude and community, a personal debate about the value of alone time versus connection. Carlile ultimately leans into the embrace of others, concluding with a heartfelt affirmation of connection, a subtle yet impactful statement within the pop song format.

Political Currents: “Human” and “Church & State”

Carlile doesn’t shy away from broader societal concerns. “Human,” an anthem reportedly conceived around a significant election, offers timely advice on maintaining perspective amidst political turmoil. It’s a poignant reminder of human fragility and the importance of living in the present. Conversely, “Church & State” takes a more direct and impassioned stance, delving into political anger with a potent rock sound. The track even incorporates a spoken-word recitation of Thomas Jefferson’s famous letter, underlining its historical and contemporary relevance, while musically nodding to influences like U2 with its robust bass line.

Navigating Relationships: From Intimacy to Independence

Beyond the grand themes, Carlile dedicates several songs to the intricate dynamics of personal relationships. “A Woman Oversees” intricately details the imbalance in communication within a partnership, capturing the unease of oversharing against another’s withholding nature. “Anniversary” explores reconciliation, where positive aspects of a working relationship begin to overshadow past regrets. Another deeply personal track, “You Without Me,” explores the profound shift in the parent-child relationship as children grow independent, capturing the “joy and terror” of this realization with striking emotional resonance.

Honoring an Icon: The Spirit of “Joni”

The track “Joni” is a standout for its heartfelt tribute and intricate musicality. Carlile masterfully weaves in musical quirks borrowed from Mitchell, creating an impressive pastiche that feels both reverent and original. Lyrically, Carlile presents Mitchell not with sycophantic praise, but with an edgy admiration, highlighting Mitchell’s directness and profound ability to communicate through a “sacred language.” It celebrates Mitchell’s genius as a healer not through overt empathy, but through her artistic power.

Profound Closures: “Hey, Can You Get Out of Bed Today?” and “A Long Goodbye”

The album’s final two tracks are particularly moving. “Hey, Can You Get Out of Bed Today?” addresses themes of depression and the vital role of connection, ostensibly checking in on a childhood friend but extending a broader message about the solace found in shared secrets and unwavering support. It’s a poignant exploration of enduring bonds and the quiet tragedy of loss or disconnection.

Closing the album, “A Long Goodbye” confronts mortality head-on, advocating for living fully in the face of death. Carlile interweaves autobiographical details with universal images of loss, asserting that we are “just a broken heart away / From making a promise that we’re forced to keep.” The song culminates in a breathtaking coda, referencing beloved artists and literary figures, transforming the acceptance of death into a powerful affirmation of life. This transcendent ending leaves a lasting emotional impact, marking it as one of Carlile’s most compelling musical statements.

Brandi Carlile’s Unmistakable Voice

Throughout ‘Returning to Myself,’ Carlile’s commanding voice remains at the forefront. Her vocal prowess, characterized by its power, nuance, and emotional depth, serves as the undeniable anchor of the album. Her songwriting continues to be both intricate and accessible, blending poetic sensibility with conversational honesty. Carlile crafts material that is not only catchy but also searingly honest, showcasing a rare synergy between a remarkable voice and equally remarkable lyrical craftsmanship.

Legacy and Evolution

‘Returning to Myself’ represents a significant chapter in Brandi Carlile’s artistic journey. While her previous work, such as “By the Way, I Forgive You,” is often cited as a landmark, this album offers a more tightly focused musical and lyrical experience. It leans into a predominantly acoustic core, hyper-focused on stripping away distractions to reach the emotional and philosophical essence of her themes. This album may be seen as a more introspective and refined effort, reinforcing Carlile’s position as a leading voice in contemporary music. As she sings in “A War With Time,” “None of it was overrated,” a sentiment that aptly captures the enduring quality and significance of her work.