Punisher
by Phoebe Bridgers
User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 435 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 395 out of 435
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 435
  3. Negative: 25 out of 435
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  1. diegofrolim
    Jul 29, 2023
    8
    Album bem coeso, algumas músicas um pouco sem gracinhas, mas tem muitos pontos altos também. "I Know The End" uma das maiores músicas do mundo.
  2. dylandylandylan
    Jul 14, 2023
    10
    i first listened to this album last year, and that’s when i became a phoebe bridgers fan. i would consider it one of the best albums of all time. phoebe’s vocals are stunning and her ability to write and story-tell is even better.
    ranking:
    1. moon song
    2. chinese satellite
    3. i know the end
    4. kyoto
    5. icu
    6. savior complex
    7. graceland too
    8. punisher
    9. halloween
    10. garden song
  3. candelrey
    Apr 1, 2023
    10
    One of my favorite albums of all time. Intimate, vulnerable and so immersive. Favorite songs: I know the end, chinese satellite and kyoto.
  4. hannahwashere
    Mar 30, 2023
    9
    Displays such a progression from her debut album 'Stranger in the Aps'. 'Punisher' is a more mature and well-produced development in Bridger's sound which highlights her musical and well as lyrical talents. Bridger's vocals are heartbreaking and beautiful.
  5. j444cks
    Mar 1, 2023
    9
    A wonderful, personal record that deserves all of the acclaim it gets. Perhaps 'I Know The End' being one of the bests songs of the decade thus far.
  6. leogarcia132002
    Feb 9, 2023
    7
    An album with an almost perfect production and lyrically exciting. I need to listen to it more times to be more related, but I feel that a little more emotion is missing that catches you.
  7. bronsonhatch
    Jan 25, 2023
    9
    It took me a couple listens over a long period of time to actually get this album. On my first listen, “I know the end” was the only track I liked. A year after listening to only “i know the end” I gave the album another full listen and I liked a handful more tracks like “moon song, punisher, savior complex” ANOTHER couple months and now it’s one of my fave albums. Almost all tracks are onIt took me a couple listens over a long period of time to actually get this album. On my first listen, “I know the end” was the only track I liked. A year after listening to only “i know the end” I gave the album another full listen and I liked a handful more tracks like “moon song, punisher, savior complex” ANOTHER couple months and now it’s one of my fave albums. Almost all tracks are on repeat and yeah. Such great themes and writing. Phoebes vocals are to die for… Expand
  8. caleb_minaj
    Jan 3, 2023
    0
    horrible, friend recommended it to me, only liked the instrumental parts where she wasn’t singing.
  9. JoelG
    Dec 12, 2022
    9
    This album exceeded any expectation I had before listening to it. From the mood setter 'DVD Menu' through the prefect storytelling 'Kyoto' and all the way straight to 'I Know The End' which is a very strong outro song, that makes you wanna listen all the way again, this album is just a delight.
    The songwriting is great, storytelling is exceptional and unique, the instruments use is    This album exceeded any expectation I had before listening to it. From the mood setter 'DVD Menu' through the prefect storytelling 'Kyoto' and all the way straight to 'I Know The End' which is a very strong outro song, that makes you wanna listen all the way again, this album is just a delight.
    The songwriting is great, storytelling is exceptional and unique, the instruments use is authentic and refreshing, composition is very professional, and the rawness is felt through every lyric.
    Phoebe makes us feel the pain inside and out her mind, all over our body, and god there's pain.
    The album is overall very soft and calm, and that might not be fitting to all listeners, but Phoebe uses very wise composition and poetry to not bore us for a single moment.
    There's not a single track I didn't like, and the album is very cohesive, and satisfying.

    Favorite Tracks: Kyoto, Punisher, Savior Complex, Moon Song, I Know The End.    … Expand
  10. Synthl0ver22
    Dec 12, 2022
    9
    Phoebe Bridgers is one of the only artist who have not only avoided an sophomore slump, but created an album maybe superior to its predecessor. She wraps you in her warm arms and combines beautiful melodies with lyrics that hit in the heart. I can not wait for her future projects, and she is one of the most promising and innovating artist in our time
  11. chiaramanto
    Oct 22, 2022
    10
    the lyricism of this album is absolutely insane. icu and Chinese satellite are definitely the best tracks
  12. georgetheod73
    Sep 9, 2022
    10
    Her songwriting is just amazing. Listen to this album late at night and you'll admire it
  13. Jorgepardo
    Aug 22, 2022
    10
    One of the best albums I ever listened to in my life def in my top 5. The lyrics , her vocals and so many things currently happening on that record. Speechless
  14. scwwts
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    one of the best 2-3 albums of the 21st century, probably top 10 all time. phoebe has actually created a new genre of music and its fascinating and bewildering to witness the power she and her music actually have.
  15. dsanojag
    Aug 13, 2022
    10
    possibly one of the best albums of the decade and best sopohomore albums of all time just incredible
  16. elizabryantrowe
    Apr 5, 2022
    10
    one of my favourite albums of all time! fave tracks are saviour complex and moon song :)
  17. All_ButTrU4
    Apr 4, 2022
    8
    I feel Phoebe Bridges is nothing like her music. When you see her you are shown a blonde former emo who seems like the unintentional cool girl but what you hear in her music,has more depth. Her music is melancholy heard. Her skill was first debuted on the 2017 gem"the strangers in the alphs". The knack for dark observation and levity in the same verse compelled any ears that heard toI feel Phoebe Bridges is nothing like her music. When you see her you are shown a blonde former emo who seems like the unintentional cool girl but what you hear in her music,has more depth. Her music is melancholy heard. Her skill was first debuted on the 2017 gem"the strangers in the alphs". The knack for dark observation and levity in the same verse compelled any ears that heard to continue listening. On this grand follow up she out does herself erasing any doubt of her talent and ascending onto the height of the indiesphere. Punisher takes all her strengths and discards her weaknesses. She takes her lowest moment's and shrugs them off. Pain is inevitable not definitive. The narrative resembles that of a movie:a beginning, climax and conclusion. "Dvd Menu " lulls with it's hopeful violins and pitched piano chords leading into the beguiling nostalgia of "garden song " . "Garden Song " opens with a promise and ends with satisfaction. It remunerated on lost time and hope . There is no catharsis reached by the finger picking guitar. The rock "kyoto" remunirates on the attempts of a disappointing father trying to make amends, loss and growing up all within a trip to the namesake city. The song reads like a diary entry left open for us to read. The sadness of it's message is almost hidden by the light lively guitars and drumming. The depressed "punisher " gives us intimate insight into a fan who goes to a concert while high to see an artist they haven't met but feel close to but this is only a metaphor for the actual idealistic honeymoon stage of love that fall apart towards the songs end.
    What sounds like the sequel to "kyoto", the chillwave "Chinese Satellite " explores detachment through another lense. The imagery of using a satellite as a star to wish on conjures false hope perfectly. My highlight and the most emotionally decrepit song on the album, so melancholy Pheobe regrets releasing it is the grand "moon song". It takes idiosyncratic event's,arguing about john lennon or nautical themed birthdays, then makes then feel universal. It paints heartbreak with three strokes:loss,disappointment and bargaining. The narrators love intrest seems to be afflicted by an addiction which seems to be affecting the relationship. Yet even then dreaming of them smiling largely is one of the best things they could have dreamt. Then makes heartbreak something inevitable and unintentional. Recovery isn't given after the emotional rollercoaster of an album, no. Instead the contemplative "saviour complex " that takes a toxic relationships and rips it open to it's fundamentals . The romantic "ICU" is the least emotionally challenging song on the record but doesn't do this at the expense of being disappointing. The minature boygenius reunion "grace land too" lulls with the supergroups precise harmonies and lyricism only for the concussive finale of "i know the end" which splits itself in two:an accident and freedom . The first part details a calm serene tableau of a European visit and a bloody accident. The change on tempo mid song or the drained screeching at the end make this a rollercoaster and a perfect synopsis of the album and Phoebe Bridgers too. That perception and meaning rately correlate. That maybe they aren't supposed to.
    Favourites:moon song, garden song,punisher,kyoto,dvd menu    … Expand
  18. ColinFrags
    Mar 2, 2022
    10
    Completely beautiful throughout. Covers dark topics such as the fear of death as a non-believer and the sensitivity of friendships with a view through a melancholic lens. She has much more to come.
  19. Ka1dowskiX
    Feb 26, 2022
    10
    Punisher is simply beautiful - it is a wonderful, climatic album that keeps the listener interested from the beginning up to the end.
  20. LonelyHeart28
    Feb 4, 2022
    9
    Beautiful album, the lyrics, the production, really amazing voice for phoebe
  21. AboveAllMusic
    Jan 11, 2022
    10
    Albums of this caliber don’t come around often. There is a haunting depression with each song that pulls you in, then a moment of brilliance, brought on by either an instrument or a change in Phoebe’s incredible voice. All of which keeps you wanting to connect with music even more. Stunning in it’s simplicity, and brilliant when it gets complicated.
  22. Thirteen13
    Jan 7, 2022
    10
    If I could marry any album in the existence of music, I would marry this masterpiece
  23. beatlemaniac
    Dec 27, 2021
    0
    my favorite album of all time. phoebe bridgers is my favorite lyricist, and this album is a beautiful display of emotions. 'I Know The End' is no longer a song, it's an experience. 'Savior Complex' is the best music video I've seen, not just from phoebe, but from anyone. 'Moon Song' is one of her strongest songs lyrically, which is saying something. Lyrics like 'you're holding me likemy favorite album of all time. phoebe bridgers is my favorite lyricist, and this album is a beautiful display of emotions. 'I Know The End' is no longer a song, it's an experience. 'Savior Complex' is the best music video I've seen, not just from phoebe, but from anyone. 'Moon Song' is one of her strongest songs lyrically, which is saying something. Lyrics like 'you're holding me like water in your hands' and 'i will wait for the next time you want me / like a dog with a bird at your door' are the most emotive lyrics I've heard ever. listen to this album. i wish i could listen to Punisher for the first time again.… Expand
  24. jvdraw
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    First time I listened to this album I might not cared a lot... Guess I wasn't depressed enough, or just didn't payed attention to the lyrics. But now, I love it so much, this is ART in its highest level, her voice is very soothing, and the stories she tells are just hurtfully true.
  25. KirangopalS
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
  26. paltareina
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    "You are sick, and you're married
    And you might be dying" a cultural reset
  27. picfall_dark
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Phoebe did really have a glow-up since Stranger in the Alps. Beautiful and meaningful songs throughout, ending with a song with unpredictable out turns. The lyrics are dark and lovely, portraying moments from Phoebe's childhood and teenage years, with catching and sweet melodies.
  28. Fra101
    Nov 12, 2021
    10
    Really good project, I liked it, I will listen to it again and again and again and again for sure!!!
  29. Tbone413
    Sep 25, 2021
    10
    it’s a haunting emotional trip yet it’s so gorgeous, how an album can pull off both of those simultaneously I don’t know but this is a masterful album in every sense of the word
  30. Thiagoatml
    Aug 21, 2021
    10
    Punisher is perfect. Her compositions are beautiful and well done, the melodies are wonderful and I feel like Phoebe gave her all on this album
  31. Panchogul
    Aug 16, 2021
    10
    Que discazo, tan hipnótico, tan ecléctico y tan sofisticado que es nada excepto placer para mis oídos.
  32. bwray
    Jul 22, 2021
    10
    I would definitely regard Punisher as one of the most lyrically-sound albums ever released. It is an upgrade from Stranger in the Alps, maturity-wise, and composition wise (I Know The End). The instrumentals on the album are just as powerful as the songwriting is. While no album is perfect, this comes very close.
  33. Small-Talker
    Jun 26, 2021
    0
    The monotony of this album is its downfall. According to the credits, 7 of these 11 songs have live drums on them. Not that anyone could tell from listening to the record. All of the drums have a processed sound to them, and almost exclusively consist of those sub-bass beats you hear in trip hop. As a result, every song seems to have the same tempo, with little variation in sound and styleThe monotony of this album is its downfall. According to the credits, 7 of these 11 songs have live drums on them. Not that anyone could tell from listening to the record. All of the drums have a processed sound to them, and almost exclusively consist of those sub-bass beats you hear in trip hop. As a result, every song seems to have the same tempo, with little variation in sound and style throughout. It becomes obvious after a certain point that this was a creative decision made by the producers in response to Bridgers's vocal abilities. She clearly can't sing in major keys. This in itself wouldn't be a problem, as there are plenty of singers who perform wonderfully in minor key territory. Nick Cave and Hope Sandoval are prime examples. Bridgers is not among them. In fact, the vocals here are downright perplexing. She sings in the most affected way; the similarity in her vocal phrasing to Norwegian singer-songwriter Lene Marlin is obvious at points. Norwegian accent and all. Strange, considering Bridgers was born and raised in California. A bizarre little record.… Expand
  34. carter1206
    Jun 26, 2021
    10
    I love everything about this album. The instrumentals on this album are genuinely amazing, along with Phoebe's stunning performances on each track. The emotions this album evokes are unmatched by almost every other album I've ever heard. I recommend this album very strongly.
  35. Chris182
    Apr 27, 2021
    9
    My favorite album of 2020. This album is a truly magnificent, experience. You feel every emotion when listening to it. It is nice to see that all of the fame has not gone to Phoebe's head.

    Best Songs: Kyoto, Chinese Satellites, Garden Songs, Savior Complex, ICU, Moon Song, I Know the End,
    Worst Songs: N/A
  36. reddomingo
    Apr 9, 2021
    10
    This record is one of the best albums of the year 2020. It deserves all of the accliam it received.
  37. merna12
    Apr 7, 2021
    10
    This album is one of the best I’ve heard. The lyrics are simple yet meaningful and brilliant. This indie alternative sound is done exceptionally. Excited for what Bridgers will do next!
  38. Dalmx
    Mar 23, 2021
    7
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  39. viniciuspotlght
    Mar 16, 2021
    10
    The Punisher nonsense, with its simple images, contains rich signification. Phoebe's songs are hypnotic.
  40. lUcOzAdExx
    Mar 4, 2021
    10
    This album is very special to me, it helped with so much last year and this year, i found it a fantastic record to listen to... and apart from my personal opinions, this is a very well-made album, the songwriting, the production, the story-telling feeling, phoebe's vocals and the general instrumentation of the songs makes it stand out and be part of the best albums we had on 2020
  41. Diabolical_
    Jan 24, 2021
    10
    Bridgers mixes poetic lyrics and dreamy compositions to submerge you in a world of hyperrealism, heartbreak, despair, and most of all, hope.
  42. clem666
    Dec 29, 2020
    7
    Cover artwork intrigued me. I found it was mysterious and powerful. I wanted to discover an artist I didn't know and the fact that she appeared on Kid Cudi's last album made me take the plunge.

    I was not disappointed. Bridgers instantly captured me into her deep and questioning lyrics. These are original, both funny and nostalgic. The artist explores different issues she is experiencing    Cover artwork intrigued me. I found it was mysterious and powerful. I wanted to discover an artist I didn't know and the fact that she appeared on Kid Cudi's last album made me take the plunge.

    I was not disappointed. Bridgers instantly captured me into her deep and questioning lyrics. These are original, both funny and nostalgic. The artist explores different issues she is experiencing with an incredible ability of introversion. No featured artists, just Bridgers herself speaking about living in her own skin. Lyrics take almost all the place in 'Punisher' and this is awesome. But it also makes instrumentals and production sound a bit unoriginal and seem effortless excepted for ('Garden Song' that I found amazing). 'ICU' and 'I Know The End' are two more songs having some musical potential but that were kind of aborted. If it was only about lyrics this could easily have been a 9/10 but I can't omit the fact that 'Punisher' didn't make me dance or even wiggle. Still really interesting though.    … Expand
  43. 1lixo
    Dec 20, 2020
    10
    This is one of the best albums of all times. This is an incredible work of art and it changed my perspective to see the life. thank you Phoebe to keep me alive in this terrible year!
  44. KingAmity44116
    Dec 15, 2020
    10
    My album of the year. Made me cry 3 times on first listen, and the end is probably the biggest payoff I've ever heard in music
  45. Kamoyayo
    Dec 11, 2020
    10
    I never have I cried,I swear her own game is excellent,she's giving me the Billie Eilish that went to Harvard
  46. NormanAlee
    Dec 10, 2020
    0
    So sorry for album "Calligulla" from Lingua Ignota that evenmore tragic and delivers much more expressive and diverse vocal performances. This album full of very predictable melodies, she sings the same in all songs, and the decent late 00s style arrangemets doesnt save the situation.
  47. vitortfv
    Dec 5, 2020
    7
    DVD Menu / Garden Song - 8/10
    Kyoto - 7,5/10
    Punisher - 7/10
    Halloween - 7,5/10
    Chinese Satellite - 7,5/10
    Moon Song - 7,5/10
    Savior Complex - 7/10
    ICU - 7,7/10
    Graceland Too - 7/10
    I Know the End - 7/10
  48. dreamyjose
    Dec 4, 2020
    0
    major. phoebe made me connect with my emotions in such a powerful way, this album is a masterpiece, if you havent gave it a good listen, you're missing out. best album of the year. i feel like im still gonna listen to this one when im 60
  49. hevonfilm
    Dec 3, 2020
    8
    This album is extremely beautiful. Perfect album to listen to on a winter evening. Feel like I'll be coming back to this album for years to come!
  50. Introverted97
    Nov 29, 2020
    6
    Remarkable songwriting — lovely imagery, ear-grabbing diction, evocative. However, the songs quickly start to resemble each other sonically and vocally. After “Kyoto”, I found myself getting lost in the sameness of Phoebe’s underwhelming vocal performances. I can understand the album’s appeal, but it simply lacks presence. Once again, excellent songwriting though.
  51. JoshuaQv
    Nov 29, 2020
    8
    Phoebe has progressed over the years since her first album in 2017 starring Motion Sickness.

    Punisher brings us some indie/alternative bangers that relate each other mixing meanings and emotions when you feel "the end is near" (yeah, its here). Every lyric fits perfectly depending on the track and its topic, in excpetion of the instrumental track DVD Menu. The productions fits    Phoebe has progressed over the years since her first album in 2017 starring Motion Sickness.

    Punisher brings us some indie/alternative bangers that relate each other mixing meanings and emotions when you feel "the end is near" (yeah, its here). Every lyric fits perfectly depending on the track and its topic, in excpetion of the instrumental track DVD Menu.

    The productions fits perfectly with Phoebe vocals that drags you into her POV at the point you inner-question yourself existential and heart-broken issues.

    You can assume why she got 4 nominations for 2021 Grammys for Kyoto (best rock performance and song), the album Punisher (best alternative album), and best new artist.

    Don't review Punisher expecting a mainstream happy lyrical ending to every track. Get the message the artist is trying to give you and review it by that.    … Expand
  52. flavz
    Nov 29, 2020
    6
    It was good but very boring. The lyrics didn’t entertained. The only song I can rescue is Kyoto and maybe two more. I’m excited to hear her next work, she definitely has what it takes but is not quite there yet. Add some spice in it!
  53. Willduffy
    Nov 22, 2020
    10
    A genius album. Kyoto, Chinese Satellite, I know the end are some of my favourites, but this entire album is excellent and deserves all the praise it's getting and more!
  54. yeez22
    Nov 15, 2020
    7
    A real slow burner, not as immediate as Stranger but grabs me on every listen.
  55. beth123456
    Nov 5, 2020
    10
    consegui sentir cada palavra que phoebe escreveu... letras profundas, lindas, melancólicas! esse álbum se tornou muito especial para mim e sem dúvida é um dos melhores de 2020
  56. Monsetherat
    Oct 30, 2020
    10
    Es un disco precioso. Phoebe hizo un trabajo maravillo, y más considerando que el indie o el folk es un género en el que cuesta destacar y no sonar igual a otros.
  57. connordalzin
    Oct 24, 2020
    10
    I have to be honest that so far this summer my music mood has been very upbeat happy pop. I don’t know if it’s just because of the season or if it's because I want to keep myself distracted from the depressing world today, but the first few listens to Punisher I found myself underwhelmed and thinking that I would like it a lot more if it was the winter. I usually gravitate to sad musicI have to be honest that so far this summer my music mood has been very upbeat happy pop. I don’t know if it’s just because of the season or if it's because I want to keep myself distracted from the depressing world today, but the first few listens to Punisher I found myself underwhelmed and thinking that I would like it a lot more if it was the winter. I usually gravitate to sad music when my seasonal depression hits, but I spent a lot of time with it mainly because Phoebe's voice is so calming to put on in the background. Punisher didn’t just grow on me, but it really made me feel. Now every single song can make me cry and I think it took me acknowledging my own depression to fall in love with it. Phoebe created an emo folk masterpiece. I think it’s easy to clump all “sad girl” music together but this is truly unique. Phoebe's lyrics are so vivid and personal that you feel as if you’re in a therapy session with her. I feel like the type of music that Phoebe makes can easily sound dated but the production while very minimalistic is still very spacey and modern. To make an album like this is incredibly brave and I think sad music really doesn’t get as much credit as it deserves. To talk about depression so openly helps get rid of mental illness stigmas. Punisher is perfect and in the running for my album of the year.… Expand
  58. bushyforest
    Oct 23, 2020
    0
    I gave it a try, i did not like it so i would not recommend but maybe next time.
  59. Miguels
    Oct 23, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Esto es Stranger in The Alps perfeccionado. Algo muy superior a su predecesor. Impresionante trabajo lírico, vocal, y en aspecto de producción es impecable. Mantiene la misma esencia que Phoebe desea trasmitir. Te da esa calidez que necesitas y además, te cautivará esa aura de tranquilidad que produce. En la noche es todo lo que necesitas para poder relajarte y llorar a gusto. Es perfección, en todo aspecto.… Expand
  60. Lajaleaa
    Oct 20, 2020
    6
    ( 69/100 )

    Phoebe Bridgers es una cantante de Los Angeles, California que presenta su segundo álbum después de tres años. Yo la escuché el año pasado con Better Oblivion Community Center en donde no pude rescatar nada precisamente emocionante y con "Punisher" por alguna razón tampoco logro hacerlo. El Indie Folk que se explora en este álbum se arrastra demasiado y la producción, a cargo    ( 69/100 )

    Phoebe Bridgers es una cantante de Los Angeles, California que presenta su segundo álbum después de tres años. Yo la escuché el año pasado con Better Oblivion Community Center en donde no pude rescatar nada precisamente emocionante y con "Punisher" por alguna razón tampoco logro hacerlo. El Indie Folk que se explora en este álbum se arrastra demasiado y la producción, a cargo de Tony Berg, Ethan Gruska y ella misma, anula cualquier sensibilidad musical potencial con una ecualización que hace de cada canción algo demasiado Pop. Sí, las letras tienen su propia poética, pero el romance en ellas no muestra una madurez superior o diferente a muchas otras artistas cantando sobre crecer y el dolor de la incertidumbre. La música es aburrida, lenta y muy dispersa. "Punisher" simplemente no conceptualiza bien su trayectoria y comparte un Pop Folk demasiado pasajero e invisible que, para cuando escribo esto, ya fue sustituido.
    -
    Phoebe Bridgers is a singer from Los Angeles, California, that presents her second album after three years. I listened to her last year with Better Oblivion Community Center where I could not rescue nothing precisely exciting, and with "Punisher", for some reason, I still don't. The Indie-Folk explored in this album drags too much, and the production, by Tony Berg, Ethan Gruska, and herself, cancel any potential musical sensibility with an equalization that makes of each song something too Pop. Yes, the lyrics have their own poetic, but the romance in them doesn't show a superior or different maturity than many other artists singing about growing up and the pain of uncertainty. The music is boring, slow, and very dispersed. "Punisher" simply doesn't conceptualize well its own trajectory and shares a Pop-Folk too passenger and invisible that, for the moment I write this, it's already replaced.    … Expand
  61. Simao
    Oct 1, 2020
    10
    punisher is the definition of a mystical album.
    what i love the most about this album is how my two favorites moments are right in the first and last seconds.
    the first few chords of garden song introduces the listener to the album, which is finished with the astonishing climax in "i know the end". between these two songs we are taken on a drive through delicate and careful melodies    punisher is the definition of a mystical album.
    what i love the most about this album is how my two favorites moments are right in the first and last seconds.

    the first few chords of garden song introduces the listener to the album, which is finished with the astonishing climax in "i know the end". between these two songs we are taken on a drive through delicate and careful melodies accompanied by mysterious lyrics and phoebe’s unique voice.

    it’s a whole trip that i’ll never get tired of experience. thank you for this beautiful album phoebe!!

    fav song: garden song
    least fav: [NA]    … Expand
  62. Ricko
    Sep 29, 2020
    8
    After her solid debut, "Punisher" ticks all the progression boxes on Phoebe Bridger's 2nd album. There is a more interesting record, a relatively bigger range of styles, more tempo, wider themes and a good deal more pushing around the edges of her singer songwriter style. It's also more fun to listen to. Like "Stranger in the Alps", I couldn't call "Punisher" a game changer but it is aAfter her solid debut, "Punisher" ticks all the progression boxes on Phoebe Bridger's 2nd album. There is a more interesting record, a relatively bigger range of styles, more tempo, wider themes and a good deal more pushing around the edges of her singer songwriter style. It's also more fun to listen to. Like "Stranger in the Alps", I couldn't call "Punisher" a game changer but it is a very strong album and gets better with each listen. "Kyoto" and "Punisher" are the standouts of the early part of the album but "ICU" is the star of the album for me, coming towards the end of the album it is short and sweet but unlike anything else she has done up to now. "It's amazing how much you can say when you don't know what you're talking about".… Expand
  63. catnip10
    Sep 8, 2020
    9
    Everything about this album is both soothing yet haunting. The production has this airy, almost psychedelic vibe to it that makes you feel like you’re floating. The standout track for me has to be ‘I know the end’ though- an outstanding outro that is reminiscent of Sufjan Steven’s ‘Illoino’. Brilliant!
  64. starsaroundscar
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Underwhelming. I don’t know but it just feel flat to me & the way she sings makes me want to go to sleep. But I guess once this persona gets taken away, you get a basic chick that no one would pay attention to... so good for you for keeping up with this shtick.
  65. twet
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    essa mulher merece mais reconhecimento, sem duvidas um dos melhores do ano.
  66. jaysimjunk
    Aug 23, 2020
    4
    I know I am the only one, but this album just seems so underwhelming to me. Everyone talks about the emotional, incredible lyrics but they feels so contrived and even cringey to me in some places. I want to like this album! I just can't find the mindblowing talent everyone is hyping.
  67. IndianaParkWars
    Aug 21, 2020
    10
    **10/10. **
    A perfectly emotional and meaningful album with great high moments of bliss and low moments of hopelessness. The cinematic and musical references are perfectly placed and homaged. Finally, the last song and outro is absolutely gorgeous. It's that of an apocalypse, with a slow-building intensity, triumphant key change, and raw screaming. The end makes me cry; it's beautiful.    **10/10. **
    A perfectly emotional and meaningful album with great high moments of bliss and low moments of hopelessness. The cinematic and musical references are perfectly placed and homaged. Finally, the last song and outro is absolutely gorgeous. It's that of an apocalypse, with a slow-building intensity, triumphant key change, and raw screaming. The end makes me cry; it's beautiful. Also, I’ve probably listened to this album 20 times now.
    ALBUM ARTWORK: Absolutely tremendous artwork. Bridgers is iconically in her skeleton costume, looking into the sky just as her music does, with celestial and astrological themes throughout. The blue and red color scheme, with the black and gray shadows, is not only gorgeous, but it's symbolic of the tone of the music, being a dark, melancholy album, yet with a hit of heartbroken romance and tranquility.    … Expand
  68. D0137
    Jul 27, 2020
    9
    Cohesive, emotional and nuanced, even when a couple of songs here kinda drag for me, it’s an undeniable piece of art, my personal favorite album of 2020 so far!
  69. jodieholmes
    Jul 17, 2020
    10
    this album came into my house and said baby its 4pm time to think about all the pain and emotional trauma i have caused you... and i said yes honey
  70. moon_cherry
    Jul 10, 2020
    10
    my friend made me listen to it. cried a lot. as an artist I can say it's a great work of art. would love to see more of it. personally Chinese Satellite was my favorite one. Pheobe, girl twinks love ur music!
  71. leonardolyra
    Jul 2, 2020
    10
    Punisher is the perfect album for the dark times we're living. Sad and cathartic.
  72. JAZZYCHIEF
    Jun 30, 2020
    9
    This is my first venture into Phoebe Bridgers music and I have to say im thoroughly impressed. this is one of the most beautiful and calming indie rock albums I’ve heard, and its just quality from start to finish. This album puts you into a stupor where all your anxieties and problems are put on hold while you enjoy this project at peace. I would highly recommend. 91/100

    Favorite tracks -    This is my first venture into Phoebe Bridgers music and I have to say im thoroughly impressed. this is one of the most beautiful and calming indie rock albums I’ve heard, and its just quality from start to finish. This album puts you into a stupor where all your anxieties and problems are put on hold while you enjoy this project at peace. I would highly recommend. 91/100

    Favorite tracks - Kyoto, Chinese satellite, Savior complex, ICU, I know the end, Halloween, Moon song, Garden song, punisher

    There wasn’t a song I didn’t like    … Expand
  73. TheusFurler
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    an instant classic. amazing songwriting, and i just wanna keep listening to it. one of the best albums of 2020.
  74. flakeymake
    Jun 27, 2020
    10
    this album is extremely emotionally potent, especially for people who are also in their mid 20s and go through struggles with themselves and surrounding. the instrumentals always perfectly match the mood she wants to convey, so that even minimal melodies leave a mark on you.
  75. Danielle22
    Jun 26, 2020
    9
    If emo-indie-folk is your thing then Phoebe is your goddess. Great album to put on and let play throughout the day.
  76. themusicfiend
    Jun 26, 2020
    9
    The sophomore LP by singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers proves that she is a force to be reckoned with. Where her debut, Stranger In The Alps, felt like a young artist singing about life, Punisher has a sense of maturity and shows tremendous growth as a person and as an artist. While there is a sadness threaded throughout the album, there is a sense of warmth that comes with the music,The sophomore LP by singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers proves that she is a force to be reckoned with. Where her debut, Stranger In The Alps, felt like a young artist singing about life, Punisher has a sense of maturity and shows tremendous growth as a person and as an artist. While there is a sadness threaded throughout the album, there is a sense of warmth that comes with the music, making it the perfect album for summer sadness. The first half of the album sets the tone so beautifully. However, it is the second half that hits every single feeling, especially the culmination, which brings everything together perfectly.… Expand
  77. coopburton
    Jun 25, 2020
    10
    Easily album of the year. This album makes my head explode and my whole body tingle. Indescribably perfect.
  78. caoluz
    Jun 24, 2020
    9
    I wish I had heard this album when I was 24, because now at 26 I found out that I ran in vain. Listening to Punisher worked as an outburst, then as a advice, which I cannot put into practice in isolation.
  79. RebelDiamonds
    Jun 24, 2020
    10
    I hate giving anything a 10, but as a complete album, this deserves it. How someone can write songs that are simultaneously catchy, pleasant, poignant, deep and cleverly humorous is mystifying. There’s only one lyric on this album that kinda hits a sour note and sticks out like a sore thumb to me, which would make me give this a 9.5 if you could give a 9.5 on Meta. I’ve been racking myI hate giving anything a 10, but as a complete album, this deserves it. How someone can write songs that are simultaneously catchy, pleasant, poignant, deep and cleverly humorous is mystifying. There’s only one lyric on this album that kinda hits a sour note and sticks out like a sore thumb to me, which would make me give this a 9.5 if you could give a 9.5 on Meta. I’ve been racking my brain, trying to think of a better sophomore album and I’ve yet to think of one that can stack up start to finish with Punisher. For what it’s worth, I didn’t know Phoebe Bridgers existed until about 3 hours ago. So, I’m not writing this as a super fan, just my extremely raw initial response to an album that I can’t envision being considered anything other than a future classic. I feel like this album truly captures the complexity of emotions that involve being alive in the year 2020 and I don’t even understand why.… Expand
  80. hhhhhhhhhhh
    Jun 23, 2020
    10
    the album of the year,this album has officially turned me into a sobbing mess,nothing else to say this album is perfect
  81. JuneD
    Jun 21, 2020
    8
    I wasn't expecting to enjoy this album as much as I did but I've been pleasantly surprised. I love the use of minimal electronic textures in the production and the instrumental flourishes like strings or horn sections to create a grand atmospheric sound. A lovely emo indie folk record that's great for night time listening.
  82. lrssa
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    ZERO defeitos esse álbum achei que não podia topar stranger mas ela se superou obrigada por tudo phoebe
  83. Lgrew
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    Best album of all time not joking. It hurts a lot to listen to...but its worth it.
  84. dsanoja
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    aoty. literally nothing else to say this album is perfect. if you thought stranger in the alps couldn’t be topped this proves everyone wrong im so happy for her growth and her music
  85. emayett
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Phoebe uses hyper-specific lyrics to encapsulate universal emotions that most can’t put words to. The album is a lyrical voyage that leaves you sad, hopeful, and seen— all at the same time.
  86. tickleyou22
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Bizarrely good songwriting and production. It's an instant classic. Can't wait to keep listening to this forever.
  87. i94
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Listening to this album brings to mind the title of Dave Eggers' memoir: 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius.' Phoebe Bridgers' second solo album is the culmination of everything she's done since 2017's 'Stranger in the Alps'—it's simultaneously heart wrenching and liberating, haunting and electrifying, highly personal yet a universally lovable. The greatest skill she possesses isListening to this album brings to mind the title of Dave Eggers' memoir: 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius.' Phoebe Bridgers' second solo album is the culmination of everything she's done since 2017's 'Stranger in the Alps'—it's simultaneously heart wrenching and liberating, haunting and electrifying, highly personal yet a universally lovable. The greatest skill she possesses is making you laugh before punching you in the gut, forcing the air out of your lungs and tears out of your ducts. 'Punisher' is supernatural: alien spaceships dart across the sky, a lonely ghost floats around a haunted house, birds are mauled by innocent dogs who can't comprehend what they've done. I was born in 1998—"Gen Z", if you will. People in my age cohort have grown up in a world shaped by 9/11, endless wars, economic ruin, government corruption, and now a life-altering pandemic. We're not used to things going right; we're used to the cruel twists of fate that life has unsparingly thrown our direction. No one captures the normalization of this despair quite like the artist currently known as Phoebe F*cking Bridgers.… Expand
  88. jamesslong96
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Everything Phoebe Bridgers has just been culminating to this album and the ending track "I know the end". It brings together all of the achievements of Stranger in the alps, Boygenius and BOCC. A sublime album start to back with a variety of beautiful instrumentation
  89. Dryleaf
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    this album has officially turned me into a sobbing mess and i live for it like i never thought i could
  90. lautiabregu
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    easily the album of the year. phoebe bridgers manages to reinvent her sound without abandoning her past completely. it's an album that sounds extremely recent and aware of our current political climate. "punisher" is phoebe bridgers' most cohesive work yet.
  91. autumnkingdom
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    i feel so strongly about this album that i decided to make an account just to review it. that alone should be enough to explain how absolutely stunningly phenomenal this record is. it’s incredibly timely and although it feels very sad (much like its predecessor, stranger in the alps), it’s a different kind of sad. these aren’t originally my words, but i think it would be apt to articulatei feel so strongly about this album that i decided to make an account just to review it. that alone should be enough to explain how absolutely stunningly phenomenal this record is. it’s incredibly timely and although it feels very sad (much like its predecessor, stranger in the alps), it’s a different kind of sad. these aren’t originally my words, but i think it would be apt to articulate stranger in the alps as a “winter sadness” record, whereas punisher feels to me more like a “summer sadness” record. where stranger in the alps feels cold, this record feels hot.

    i also think every second of punisher feels just as rewarding as the highest highs of phoebe’s debut; she seems to have grown tremendously as a songwriter and it shows.

    my expectations for this record was very very high, and it still managed to blow me out of the water. probable album of the year, in my opinion.    … Expand
  92. sslevanderbilt
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    Equal parts grand, intimate, dark, & humorous, Punisher is an emo-indie-folk masterpiece that feels like an extended exhale after a good cry.
  93. sccumb2pressure
    Jun 18, 2020
    9
    One of the best albums of the year. While "Stranger in the Alps" was more defined by statement songs like "Motion Sickness" and "Smoke Signals," Punisher is a more cohesive, eloquent thesis on dread, inner conflict, and being human in a f*cked world, which only makes it more crushing. My favorite songs: "Garden Song", "Chinese Satellite", "I Know The End"
  94. ztuxilef
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    This is without any doubt one of the best albums of the year the crushing and emotional lyrics, the pretty quiet but powerful instrumentals and the incredible vocals make this album a masterpiece in my opinion.
    Favorite tracks: i know the end, chinese satellite, graceland too, i see you
  95. matthewmirliani
    Jun 18, 2020
    8
    It’s a fitting soundtrack to our times - building on the beautiful, haunting, alt-folk hymns of her stunning debut. Nothing compares to “Smoke Signals,” but it’s a comfortable record. The highlight is the infectious “Kyoto,” that sounds like it exists in a different world than the rest of the album - a lighter, New Wave-esque tribute to freedom and youth. It’s bleak but calming, andIt’s a fitting soundtrack to our times - building on the beautiful, haunting, alt-folk hymns of her stunning debut. Nothing compares to “Smoke Signals,” but it’s a comfortable record. The highlight is the infectious “Kyoto,” that sounds like it exists in a different world than the rest of the album - a lighter, New Wave-esque tribute to freedom and youth. It’s bleak but calming, and solidifies the artist’s unique, signature sound.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best Album of 2020
37
#37 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Sputnikmusic
    Sep 21, 2020
    100
    Punisher is a product of the times, but it’s also one that could have only been made by Phoebe Bridgers. She’s the only artist I can think of who has the ambition and elegance to tackle two crumbling worlds at the same time: the one in her mind, and the one outside her doorstep. It's an album characterized by its finality; a series of lasts in a time where preparing for the end is starting to feel less and less absurd.
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  2. Punknews.org (Staff)
    Jun 24, 2020
    90
    What I think makes this album stand out just a bit more, edgier and whatnot, from her debut three years ago in Stranger in the Alps is there's a fearlessness to embrace the mainstream aesthetic just a bit more. Not something like Lana del Rey's style or that kind of thing, but a more contemporary, alternative and dare I say poppy sound.
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  3. Glide Magazine
    Jun 22, 2020
    80
    Punisher is a worthy follow-up to Bridgers’ impressive debut, building upon her distinctive style of storytelling while adding a bit more flavor. Though mostly soft and measured, the poetic imagery and occasional bursts of dynamism keep the album from ever getting dull.
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