Against Me! frontwoman Laura Jane Grace’s new project solidifies her reputation as a wry and observant songwriter. Spanning punk, folk and scuzzy dream pop, the record is full of Grace’s characteristically witty, verbose lyricism.

The record traces Grace’s thoughts as she attempts to make sense of the world. Hers is a mind in flux. Tracks like Amsterdam Hotel Room and The Airplane Song are lyrically hyperactive, their ideas barely contained by cadence and structure. Manic Depression is a snapshot of contemporary ennui, the slinking music reflecting the sludge of an overstimulated brain, as Grace rattles off intrusive thoughts. The album ends on a note of clarity and compassion, with The Apology Song acting as a reminder to be kind to yourself and loved ones after inevitable fuck-ups. In her work with Against Me!, Grace created euphoria from nihilism. On Bought to Rot she works her neuroses into acceptance.

Claire Biddles