Courtney Barnett

Sometimes I Sit and Think and Sometimes I Just Sit (Mom + Pop)

Behind her first two EPs, Courtney’s Barnett’s deadpan delivery and verbosely sprawling verses unleashed ennui that hit just the right tone for a bored generation. Yet the Australian songwriter’s furious shredding guitar, accentuated by the Drones’ Dan Luscombe, pushed the songs beyond mere suburban malaise, with the quartet proving anything but lethargic. Her proper debut full-length follows suit, but honed with more power. Barnett still wheels breathlessly through lyrics like a Benzedrine-fueled daydream, but drops inspired phrases like, “I’m not suicidal, just idling insignificantly” on day-in-the-life opener “Elevator Operator,” and brilliant kiss-off, “I think you’re a joke but I don’t find you very funny” on lead single “Pedestrian at Best.” “Small Poppies” sways with a soulfully warped Hawaiian vibe exuding apathy, while “Depreston” demonstrates Barnett’s subtle vocal range. Even so, guitar rippers like “Nobody Really Cares if You Don’t Go to the Party” best highlight her many talents. (Wed., 9:50pm, Stubb’s; Thu., 12mid, Cedar Street Courtyard)

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This article appears in March 20 • 2015.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.