Father John Misty, “Funny Girl” | Track Review

“Funny Girl” is an utterly sublime way for singer/songwriter Father John Misty to kick off his Chloë and the Next 20^th Century era.

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hen it comes to singer/songwriter extraordinaire Father John Misty (Josh Tillman), there’s NEVER a dull moment.  Tillman is an unpredictable songwriter in many ways, which is part of his charm.  What you can expect or predict about his music is that he’ll unleash ample clever lines, often with a humorous element, as well as deliver nuanced vocals.  In the year of our lord, 2022, Mr. Tillman has returned with a brand-new album, Chloë and the Next 20^th Century, arriving in April.  Until then, he whets our thirsty palates with “Funny Girl” which is NOT the record I expected.  Even though it’s surprising, I fully support what Tillman shares with us!

With Tillman characterized stylistically as singer/songwriter or alternative, “Funny Girl” throws a slight curveball.  In all honesty, this record sounds like a long-lost torch song – easy listening or traditional pop. Based upon much of the music he’s released as Father John Misty in the past, this is a stark contrast.  Here, Tillman is accompanied by a sophisticated, lush backdrop including dreamy strings, upright bass, piano, and wind instruments.  One of my favorite moments of the record is the instrumental section which features the ‘big-band’ winds contrasting with pizzicato strings.  Despite the surprising sound, the songwriting is tried-and-true Tillman. “Funny girl, you look so unassuming,” he commences the first verse, continuing, “Right up until the room you’re captivating / Starts to fill with gut-busting laughter / And you’re transformed into a five-foot Cleopatra.” What a killer allusion!

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Final Thoughts  

Can Father John Misty do any wrong? Not in my eyes! “Funny Girl” is top-notch.  Sure, Josh Tillman surprises us with the gorgeous, traditional pop arrangement, but the songwriting is idiomatic – true to self.  “Funny Girl” is an utterly sublime way to kick off his Chloë and the Next 20^th Century era.

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Father John Misty • Chloë and the Next 20^th Century • Sub Pop • 4.8.22
[: Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay, Sub Pop]

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