The Richmond singer-songwriter talks about her new album, the value of slow listening, and the excitement of returning to Mexico City.
After an intense 2024 and an album that reaffirmed her place as one of the most sensitive and intelligent voices of her generation, Lucy Dacus returns to Mexico to perform at the festival Crown Capital. We talked with her about her creative process, the transience of current music, the importance of the album format, her daily rituals and what she hopes to meet again with the Mexican public.
Indie Rocks!: Let's start with your most recent album. For me it was a great, great album. Could you tell me a little about the process behind its creation?
Lucy Dacus: Clear. I wrote these songs over a long period of time, but many of them came about while I was on tour with boygenius. I also started recording during that time, so it was a pretty hectic process. I finished the album in 2024 and worked with people I've known for years—high school friends—and with new collaborators like Bartees Strange and Jason Molina Duterte. I worked with different people until everything sounded like I imagined. It was amazing to hear so many creative ideas until they became something of their own.
Indie Rocks!: You have received a lot of love from critics and your fans. Even Rolling Stone named you as one of the best guitarists. Did you expect such a warm reception?
Lucy Dacus: Not at all. When you do something you love, you hope others will love it too, but there is no automatic right to admiration. Lately I've noticed that people can be very critical on the internet; Sometimes they just want to give their opinion, even if they don't like the music. But when someone really understands her, when she really connects, it's the best thing that can happen. It makes me feel understood, like what I say really matters to someone.
Indie Rocks!: Nowadays songs seem to only last a few weeks. With TikTok and singles dominating, why continue betting on the album format?
Lucy Dacus: I think I'm lucky: my fans usually listen to the whole album. My advice would be: make sure you love every song, because if someone only listens to one, they should still feel loyal to you. But yes, you're right: music became almost seasonal, like sports. People talk about who is “winning,” who is playing Coachellawho is nominated for the Grammy…and it's weird. Music should be much more than that.
Indie Rocks!: Totally agree. I am one of those who listen to complete albums, on vinyl. Do you also collect vinyl?
Lucy Dacus: Yeah! Being at home made me enjoy that ritual again. I wake up, feed my dog, put on sunscreen, put on a record, make tea, and sit on the porch listening. It is a very comforting routine. Vinyl forces you to stay with the music, to pay attention to it, and I love that.
Indie Rocks!: How do you usually discover new music?
Lucy Dacus: I love going to record stores, browsing the shelves or asking whoever is serving for recommendations. I also like when several friends tell me on the same day: “You have to listen to this.” This is how I discovered Dijon, Bartees Strange and Hayley Heynderickx. I trust a lot in the taste of my friends; It's a very personal way of getting to know new music.
Indie Rocks!: You have to visit the record stores here in Mexico, we have some amazing ones.
Lucy Dacus: Please! I'd love to get some recommendations. Seriously, when we finish the interview, tell me which ones I should go to.
Indie Rocks!: Beyond the album, there is the live experience. What can we expect from this new tour?
Lucy Dacus: For a long time I wanted my shows They had a more theatrical touch. Before we just went on stage and played, without thinking about costumes or concepts. This time I wanted to create an intentional environment. The setting looks like a museum, and we all wear more formal clothes. It's fun, because the music is still loud and rocking. That contrast—the visual elegance with the chaos of the sound—feels very good. Also, I love my band; Every night they make the songs sound different.
Indie Rocks!: That performative part reminds me of bands like Wet Leg or The Last Dinner Party, which also bring theatricality to rock. What do you expect from Mexico on this visit?
Lucy Dacus: I played it once before and I loved it. I'm very excited to be back with a bigger band. I want to take them to the restaurants that I liked, visit the Chapultepec Forest, eat mole… and ants. (laughs) I ate a lot of ants last time and they surprised me, they were delicious! Also, this year's lineup is incredible and I have friends playing, so it will be nice to meet again.
Indie Rocks!: In closing, if you could describe yourself in just three words, what would they be?
Lucy Dacus: It is not a very serious answer, but my team tells me “cheeky little guy”—something like “a little naughty girl.” That's the first thing that came to mind, so… yeah, I'll stick with that.
Indie Rocks!: (laughs) Perfect. Thank you very much for your time, Lucy.
Lucy Dacus: Thanks to you! I loved this interview.
