Beck Hits a Sad, Beautiful New High on 'Ride Lonesome'

Rolling Stone • September 18, 2026 • entertainment

Key Points:

Beck’s first album in seven years, "Ride Lonesome," marks a return to the somber folk-rock style reminiscent of his acclaimed works like 2002’s "Sea Change" and 2014’s "Morning Phase."
The album features fragile acoustic melodies, desolate lyrics, and subtle studio arrangements, drawing comparisons to Nick Drake’s "Bryter Layter" and evoking a Laurel Canyon soft-rock poet’s introspective mood.
Tracks like “Run Away,” “In the Night,” and “Bleed” explore themes of desolation, darkness, and emotional struggle with a blend of California folk-rock and seventies-inspired sounds.
Despite its hazy and mellow atmosphere, "Ride Lonesome" maintains distinct, standout songs such as “Falling Through My Hands” and “If You Don’t Know What Love Is,” showcasing Beck’s lyrical depth and melodic grace.
The album closes with “Beyond the Light,” a poignant post-breakup song that highlights Beck’s continued artistic vitality and emotional resonance.

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