Described by frontman Caleb Harper as an album "full of apologies",[1] Sunlight lyrically acts as a reflection on his mental health amidst relationship breakdowns, in contrast to its affable melodies and jangling instrumentation.

[6] Out of the twelve tracks on Sunlight, five were co-written by Murray before her departure, and she performs bass guitar in five songs including "Booster Seat", which also features backing vocals from new member Lane.

[11] Described as an alternative[12] and indie rock album focused around jangling guitars,[2] the addition of synth lines and cooing backing vocals on Sunlight marked an expansion in the band's musical palette.

[10] While the album's instrumentation is often uptempo, with "Good for You" in particular containing "frantic guitar solos and rough-around-the-edges grit",[13] Harper's lyricism on Sunlight emphasises introspection,[14] anxiety and depression[10] due to relationship breakdowns with romantic partners and family.

[12] Meanwhile, the "tight, sour-faced rock" production on "Love Me Like I Haven't Changed" features "wispy harmony vocals" and a sound reminiscent of the Strokes, per Ben Malkin of music publication Indie Is Not a Genre.

[19] Sunlight was officially announced on 26 February 2020, along with the track list, cover art, release date, details of a third national tour, and the fourth single, "Skin".

[21][23] Lama, who also manages the band, said planning a tour at the height of the pandemic was a major logistical challenge and a financial risk, and that he'd "never take live music for granted anymore.

[32] In June 2021, Spacey Jane released a limited edition, deluxe LP box set of Sunlight, featuring two previously-unreleased studio tracks, three live performances, and a cover of "Fill in the Blank" by Car Seat Headrest.

[13] Declan Byrne of Triple J summarised the album as "one of the smoothest indie rock rides you’ll enjoy from an Aussie guitar band this year," praising its "breezy-sounding songs with emotional weight and heft".

[14] Standard editionAll tracks are written by Caleb Harper, Kieran Lama, Peppa Lane and Ashton Hardman-Le Cornu, unless otherwise noted.Deluxe box set Musicians Additional personnel ‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.