7/10

As one of the figurehead names in Philadelphia's renowned and diverse music scene, singer-songwriter Meg Baird has recently made the move to San Francisco, opening herself up to new sounds and experiences within her music. Since moving there, she has already formed the supergroup Heron Oblivion with members of Comets on Fire and Assemble Head, as well as pen this terrific new studio album 'Don't Weight Down The Light'.

Much like some of her previous releases, Baird has aimed to make herself the focus of this new record. Her singular presence and minimal production helps give this album a focus and allows the depth and warmth of her songwriting to breath through more easily. The dexterity of her guitar playing, matched with her strong yet wistful voice gives her performance a really complete feel, which in turn gives this release a sense of gravitas and precise quality.

It is certainly an album you can feel that time and effort went in to. Every subtle nuance and eccentricity within its production serves as part of a much wider sound, that helps give Baird the broader feel she has been looking to create.