Saint Cloud (album)

Saint Cloud is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Phoebe Bridgers. It was released on June 16, 2017, by Dead Oceans. The album received widespread critical acclaim, praised for Bridgers' songwriting, vocals, and the production. It is considered a cornerstone of her career, establishing her as a significant figure in indie folk and alternative music.

The album's sound is characterized by its melancholic and introspective lyrics, often dealing with themes of death, grief, and relationships. Musically, it blends elements of indie folk, indie rock, and alternative rock, with sparse instrumentation and Bridgers' distinctive, emotionally resonant vocals at its core. Notable tracks include "Motion Sickness", "Funeral", and "Smoke Signals".

The album's critical success led to several awards and nominations, solidifying Bridgers' status as an artist to watch. Its influence can be heard in the work of many subsequent artists, impacting the soundscape of indie music in the years following its release. While the album primarily explores themes of loss and heartbreak, a subtle undercurrent of hope and resilience also permeates many of the songs.

The album's production, handled by Tony Berg and Ethan Gruska, contributed significantly to its overall atmosphere and sound. Their work helped translate Bridgers' intimate songwriting into a fully realized and emotionally powerful sonic experience. The album’s critical success led to its inclusion on many "best of" lists at the end of 2017 and remains a popular and critically lauded work in Bridgers' catalog.