If You're Dreaming

Anna Burch feels alternately yearning and apprehensive on If You’re Dreaming. But the Michigan singer-songwriter isn’t just shaking off any joyless romantic affair like she did on 2018’s Quit the Curse; this time, she’s very much committed—helping to ease her concerns with placid, breezy songs that refuse to rush. On the gently strummed “Not So Bad” and “Tell Me What’s True,” Burch reflects on how her partner brings out her better qualities, whereas on “Jacket,” she projects her insecurities onto him: “Don’t tell me she’s just shy/She still makes you sad.” The Byrds-ian jangle of “Party’s Over” shows an endearing snapshot of their lives with relatability, with Burch making note of his extroverted ways over a night out that doesn’t end.