Plenty of people are going to eat their words about this album.
Disappointed in this. It has perhaps 2 good songs not what I was hoping for after his recent projects
Incredibly sad and incredibly beautiful. It manages to be life affirming despite the undeniable sadness of the material. Sufjan found a way to access grief and death in a delicate and intimate manner without being exhibisionist. The repeated refrain "we're all going to die!" inspires first shock then introspection and finally acceptance much like the experience of someone facing death
This is the best written album of the year and the best country album released in 2017. Isbell sheds light on difficult topics from the center of the storm and leaves listeners with something substantial to contemplate afterwards. Lyrics are the most important aspect of music to me therefore - the score. I can see those who value instrumentation feeling less excited - nevertheless this is an excellent body of work worthy of contemplation.
J'Adore!
This is pop beautifully and meticulously done. The production is exciting and refreshing - never boring and frequently taking unexpected turns. Props to Jack Antonoff (ugh)! The composition of the album is excellent as well - there is no drop-off and as listeners move from the party of the first 3 tracks to the introspection of the middle and denouement there is a constant electricity that jolts the keen listener. It even feels like a Ferris wheel ride that spun faster than the ... read more