Automatic is The Lumineers’ latest album, which was released on Valentine’s Day of 2025. One of the band members, Wesley Schultz, revealed in a press conference that the album explores the absurdities of the modern world, such as the ever-blurring distinction between reality and illusion, as well as the many ways we numb ourselves in an attempt to escape both boredom and overstimulation. There is a total of 11 songs on this album, totaling 34:32 in length.

Disclaimer: track two contains explicit content.

I love this song because it is very upbeat and happy sounding, but the lyrics hold such a deeper meaning. The song reflects the frustration of repeating the same mistakes or being caught in a loop where things don’t seem to change, especially when it comes to emotion and connection with others. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for change but also an acknowledgment that certain patterns keep recurring, making it feel like a “same old song.”

This song explores the emotional complexity of relationships, self-awareness, and the internal struggle between love and frustration. The narrator expresses feelings of regret, anger, and self-deprecation, acknowledging that they may have behaved poorly and taken others for granted. This song captures that bittersweet blend of recognizing one’s faults while also showing an attempt to make sense of or come to terms with them.

The song “Strings” is an instrumental song with no lyrics. The tone of the song feels like it’s working its way up to the climax but could never really reach it.

Automatic uses “Strings” as the background while the singer touches on themes of change, disillusionment, and the loss of genuine connection in a world that increasingly feels automated and impersonal. The song’s reference to “automatic” speaks to the way individuals may sometimes feel like they are operating on autopilot, disconnected from their true emotions. “Automatic” highlights the internal conflict of wanting more, but feeling powerless to change the course of events, leading to a feeling of resignation.

This song’s lyrics suggest both an emotional fragility and a sense of devotion, where the narrator is trying to navigate their fears and insecurities while holding on to the relationship. The phrase “you’re all I got” underscores the feeling of being completely immersed in the bond with another person, for better or worse. This song touches on the intensity of love and the way it can become all-encompassing, highlighting the idea that when you care deeply for someone, they can feel like your only source of stability and support.

The term “plasticine” refers to a type of modeling clay, which is malleable and can be shapes, symbolizing something that is not permanent or real but can be molded to fit a desired form. In the song, the narrator reflects on the theme of identity and self-perception, as the “plasticine” imagery can represent someone trying to fit into a mold or a certain expectation.

This song is about emotional struggle, personal turmoil, and coping with inner pain. The title refers to the drug Ativan, which is often prescribed for anxiety,  indicating that the song explores themes of mental health, anxiety, and finding ways to manage overwhelming feelings. The song blends emotional depth with the folk-rock style that The Lumineers are known for.

The lyrics in this song describe a situation in which a couple has reached a breaking point, with one person deciding to leave or move on. The “keys on the table” symbolize the finality of the decision. The song’s melancholy tone is paired with its folk-rock style, emphasizing the feelings of loss, introspection, and the painful yet inevitable nature of change.

This song promotes hope, healing, and the belief that even when things seem tough, change is possible, and a better future awaits. The upbeat, folksy sound of the song complements its positive message, making it an anthem for overcoming adversity with the belief that better days are on the horizon.

This is another song on the album that is instrumental with no lyrics. The title “Sunflowers” symbolizes warmth, positivity, and growth. This song captures the feelings of happiness and willingness.

“So Long” is the last song on the album. It speaks to the end of a chapter in life, marked by farewell loss, and moving on. The lyrics reflect a sense of departure, not just in terms of physical distance, but also emotional separation.