In 2015, Father John Misty’s album, “I Love You, Honeybear,” gained popularity and critical acclaim. With Misty’s purpose of creating a collection of love songs for his wife, “I Love You, Honeybear” resonated with listeners with its romantic undertones.

Yet, with Misty’s new album, “Pure Comedy,” he goes in a completely different stylistic direction. He fires shots at the entertainment industry, social media and religion throughout the album with clever lyrics accompanied by slow piano and orchestral tracks.

The album features 13 songs, including 4 singles, and was produced in collaboration with Jonathan Wilson, sound engineer Trevor Wilson and bassist Gavin Bryars. The album is heavy with choral arrangements and strings, producing a lamenting tone throughout.

This album serves as Misty’s way to express opinions on politics, religion, society and aging. While Misty’s lyrics are strong in originality and wit, the album is forgettable in that most of the melodies are just strung together in order to shine the spotlight on the words. For example, Misty’s voice shines in title-track “Pure Comedy,” but ultimately, the song’s dry melodies do not carry the weight of its poetic lyrics.

However, the album does contain a few songs that successfully balance smart lyrics with enjoyable music. In “Ballad of the Dying Man,” lyrics such as, “and it occurs to him a little late in the game… We leave as clueless as we came,” goes along perfectly with the pleasing melodic charm. Other tracks that left a good impression include “Things It Would Have Been Helpful to Know Before the Revolution” and “Leaving LA.”

“Things It Would Have Been Helpful to Know Before the Revolution” debuts lyrics criticizing government in time to an alluring and angsty tune.

“Leaving LA” is an example of Misty’s self-awareness and critical nature. While too drawn out at some moments, it is filled with sharp insights and intense self-awareness communicated by lines such as, “at some point you just can’t control what people use your fake name for.”

All in all, “Pure Comedy” begs its listeners to question and mourn the world around them. The tasteful lyrics are mostly accompanied by listless melodies, however, some songs do stand out. For those interested in listening to the album, “Pure Comedy” is available for purchase on iTunes and for streaming on Spotify.

Rating: 3/5