Personal, Political, Gospel

U.S. Girls returns with Scratch It, a country soul album recorded live in Nashville that marks a departure from the polished pop of previous releases, focusing instead on themes of motherhood, grief and personal transformation.

Opening track “Like James Said” sets the tone with a funky, gospel groove that plays like a sermon for the soul. The production is vintage, with deep Rhodes chords and a swinging backbeat.

“Dear Patti” is a standout moment of lyrical vulnerability. Inspired by Remy missing Patti Smith’s performance at a festival due to the demands of parenting, the song balances regret with resolve. “I had milk in the cooler and tears on my cheeks,” she sings over a shimmering country backdrop. The song captures the push-and-pull between art and responsibility, blending plucked guitar lines with rich, backing harmonies.

At the center of the record lies the 12-minute track “Bookends,” co-written with Edwin de Goeij. It’s a bold track that shifts through multiple rhythms, anchored by narrative lyrics referencing Eyewitness to History, Riley Gale of Power Trip and cyclical violence in American culture. The song drifts from slow-burning folk to drastic psychedelia, embodying Remy’s deep dive into the contradictions and trauma buried in the national mindset.

Where past U.S. Girls records were marked by sleek studio sheen and heavy sampling, Scratch It thrives on imperfection. According to Pitchfork, Remy chose to record and tape with minimal overdubs to prioritize emotion over polish. Songs like “The Clearing” and “Pay Streak” are sparse but soulful, allowing space for each lyric to land with more gravity.

“Firefly on the 4th of July” combines imagery of small-town celebration with unease beneath the surface. Fireworks crackle in the distance as Remy’s voice floats over a slow, swaying rhythm. 

The album’s closer, “No Fruit,” is a suggestion about absence. Distributed piano chords accompany Remy’s restrained vocal, capturing a feeling of emotional emptiness with devastating simplicity. It’s a fitting end to a record, providing themes to listeners not just personally, but also socially.

According to Clash, Scratch It is U.S. Girls’ “most satisfyingly cohesive” album yet. While it may not offer the high-gloss production of previous releases, it rewards careful listening through its narrative depth and musical nuance. The album also stands as a commentary on the music industry’s expectations, particularly for women who are both creators and caregivers.

Currently touring across North America, Remy is bringing Scratch It to intimate venues where its analog textures and live-band energy can be fully appreciated. Tour dates include:
7/17 – Chicago, IL – Lincoln Hall
7/19 – Toronto, ON – The Great Hall
7/23 – New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom
8/2 – Los Angeles, CA – Lodge Room

Scratch It is a bold artistic change, bringing more introspective ideology while bracingly political issues. U.S. Girls remains one of the most thoughtful and daring acts in contemporary indie music, creating a wonderful listening experience to any new fans as well as new listeners.