The new one from Mitski is something of a concept album. She's not gone all Tommy on us, but Nothing's About to Happen to Me is centered around a character afraid of the outside world, basically. The cuts within range from the intimate to the euphoric. Call it chamber rock if you want, and you'd not be too far off, perhaps.
Opener "In a Lake" is breezy in its complexity, while "Where's My Phone" is a roar of invention. Those stand next to the gorgeous "Cats", a near-elegaic number that's a real highlight here. "If I Leave" has a nice, deliberate progression to it which made me think of early Fiona Apple stuff, while the lovely "I'll Change for You" stands out for its elegant brand of indie.
With varied instrumentation, and stylistic detours, Nothing's About to Happen to Me is a showcase for Mitski. Tuneful and modestly ornate, the material here reveals Mitski's precise approach, one where both emotional effect and intellectual pleasure are one and the same. It's a throwback to the days when albums were meant to be listened to in one sitting, without distractions. It's playful in spots, and heartfelt in others, of course. Fans of past acts like Tori Amos, Jon Brion, and Aimee Mann will find most of this record wildly engaging. Mitski has produced what might be her best record to date here in 2026. The depths of the production, the arrangements, and Mitski's varied vocals make this a rich listen.
Nothing's About to Happen to Me by Mitski is out on Friday via Dead Oceans.
[Photo: Lexie Alley]