Reviews (page 4 of 13)
My favorite Wilco album, so many great songs.
Classic album, kind of brooding and meandering and the addition of the soviet number station adds to the mystery.
Love that this album delivery service has provided another lovely Sunday album to me. Never heard of Wilco (other than the deceased shop, so sad) so had no expectations, but song after song impressed me. Really nice music where you can hear each instrument individually. Strange, melancholic, but also fun and inventive. Had a real struggle deciding which songs to add to my list, so think that shows that it's well good x
Really atmospheric, great with my headphones although at times felt a little too much. I don't like the style of the singer though.
Now it's not cool to like Wilco but I like this album. I think it's catchy and holds up.
joo volt :)))) (4)
solid
Ashes of American Flags was really good, Jesus etc. is so spot on and the album cover art make me think 9/11 insanity was somewhat involved but it released only a few weeks later so most if not all had to be written/recorded before that happened. Surreal slice of that time generally at least
Weird album, but I get the hype now, especially if I had first heard it back in 2001 (but actually if I was 9 the first time I heard it I probably would've hated it but you get the idea). It's experimental in a fun way. A little unexciting at times, but still interesting. I really liked I'm the Man Who Loves You, especially that weird discordant guitar solo.
Strange relationship with Wilco, when I listen…. I dig it but I never want to put it first myself……. Except heavy metal drummer, that song is a bona fide jam
I liked this and may listen to it again
Didn't hate it, but that's the best I can say about it
Super interesting song titles. Loved the album
7/10 Wilco are a band that I’ve had fairly ambivalent feelings towards with the music of theirs that I’ve heard in the past. None of it has really done a great deal to move the needle in either direction for me and, while I’ve had a reasonable enough time with their work, its never caught my ear enough to dig too much deeper or pay it too many repeat visits. From the outset, I began to get a similar vibe for this record. The opening track started to do some fairly interesting things, but musically they weren’t completely gelling for me at that point. Once moving past the opener however, things began to click. While nothing stood out to me as musically spectacular, the blend of approachable, well considered melodic leads and subtle, lo-fi soundscapes went a long way to building an engaging and endearing vibe in which to spend an enjoyable 50 minutes. The music skilfully danced between an array of emotions, from sombre and dark efforts like Radio Cure and Ashes of American Flags to more fun, upbeat indie-pop numbers like Heavy Metal Drummer and Pot Kettle Black, but none of it felt jarring or out of place. Jeff Tweedy and the gang successfully create a sound world that is both consistent and varied, with singer-songwriter style compositions at their core, but more ambient and lo-fi aspects supplying a style that’s fairly unique to the band, particularly when blended with Tweedy’s own vocal. He’s not a fantastic singer, and I struggled a little more with him on Being There, but here his delivery is subtle and honest, and he never attempts to push his voice into areas that it can’t work in, so as a part of the overall aesthetic it works incredibly well across the record. The overall sense that this record gave me was one of comfortable, warm satisfaction, and sometimes that’s all you need from a record. There were a few spots where the experimentation leeched away from the musicality a tiny bit too much for my ears, but other than that, this was a pretty engaging and pleasant listening experience, and might even tempt me to dig a little deeper into their catalogue. I Am Trying To Break Your Heart - The sound design and uncertainty of the intro here is pretty cool. The drum beat is quite cool in isolation, but it doesn’t really allow the song to flow very well. There’s some weird use of almost random, discordant piano in places that is fairly odd too. The oddest thing is that this is a fairly simple, straightforward song that’s dragged out of shape by production choices that make it a slightly disconcerting listen, and I can’t quite work out if I like it or not. I think I like the ideas rather than the execution. Kamera - This is immediately better and more coherent. The vibe is very nice and the singer-songwriter groove, augmented with some subtle synth work gives it a front-foot, yet dreamy flavour. It’s a nice dose of whimsy, with the tone given an extra bit of style with the double-tracked vocals. It’s melodically strong and, while unspectacular, a very pleasant experience. Radio Cure - A more sombre affair now, but it continues to be more coherent. It’s musically sparse, but some of the crunchy lo-fi sound design is really nice. As the track progresses, it feels like things are simmering and bubbling under the surface, giving things a great tension and texture. The melodic work is strong too, but it’s given extra range thanks to the subtle impact and variety in the production choices. Very nice. War On War - On to a fairly simple and in places repetitive indie singer-songwriter effort. It’s elevate by some of the vocal harmony work and, as the song progresses, the production and sound design work which gives an extra depth to the sonic profile and ambience of the track. There’s some pretty decent rhythmic moments in there too, actually and the slight sense of crumbling apart at the end is cool. Jesus, Etc. - This has a similar vibe to Kamera in that the vibe is really nice, it’s fairly musically restrained, but has enough going on to hold focus. Where it differs is in the production, as this is far more traditionally produced. But melodically and harmonically, this is just an incredibly pleasant and enjoyable track. Ashes Of American Flags - The sombre tone and lilt to this are really nice. It’s almost halting in places, which marries up well with the stark and emotive nature of the vocal delivery. As with much of the record thus far, the sound design and production choices elevate this by enhancing the vibe and building greater atmospheric depth and power that augments the tone of the song really well. It’s a very pretty and poignant song. Heavy Metal Drummer - A pretty stark change of pace and vibe now, but it actually works well to bounce back like this. It’s a vibey, sweet little indie pop song that has excellent rhythms and melodic writing. As with other tracks of this ilk on the record, I wouldn’t say there’s anything spectacular about it, but it’s incredibly enjoyable and has a little touch of something special about it which, when blended with some fun bits of synth work and production, make it so much fun. I'm The Man Who Loves You - This kind of follows on from the last track but with a more gritty, lo-fi edge to it that crumbles around the edges here and there. Melodically, it’s not quite got the hooks of the last track, but it comes fairly close in places. The guitar solo is a bit slapdash and doesn’t necessarily jive with the rest of the track all that well, but other than that, it’s another pretty decent indie-pop number. Pot Kettle Black - I’m definitely warming to this record. There’s a good groove to this and it continues to be a pleasant and vibey experience that hooks you in with its honesty and charm. There are some more lovely melodic choices here and the blend of tones used gives it a warm and thick sound, which is given more prominence by the deft use of dynamic range and subtle pieces of sound design that give it a more unorthodox edge. More very pleasant stuff. Poor Places - A slow burn with a bit more creeping dissonance and unsettling undertones that drift along beneath the lead vocal. Things start to drift more into focus and tighten up as the song progresses, which is quite a nice effect. It doesn’t quite manage to land on something that’s entirely tonally satisfying for me, but I can kind of see what they were going for. There are sections when things get cleaner, but this one gives me a similar sense of being not completely coherent to the opener. Reservations - An entirely pleasant and atmospheric closer that’s got some great sound design to wallow in. There are some really nice harmonic moments that flicker through the wash of sound and then half way through, things dwindle away to almost nothing and we get some more atmospheric, lo-fi soundscape work that bubbles away over some sparse, moody piano chords. It’s nice ambient stuff and becomes quite hypnotic and engaging as it slowly drips past.
Es triste, me pone triste. Que grande el indie rock.
The emotive sounds of Wilco filled the space by the fire in the evening
Fascinating sound plays with the haunting deep drone of the bass juxtapose to the high-spirited vocals in "I'm trying to Break Your Heart.". "Kamera" folksy journey brings an array of sounds with fun percussion, jammin guitars, and vocals taking a ride on the wind. The soulful feel of "Radio Cure" beckons the listener to just hit the road and reflect on life while letting the music take you where you need to go. One such reflection "Ashes of American Flags" focuses on this world in which we live. Wilco seems to capture the heartache we've all felt within the heaviness that comes with navigating the American machine. Lyrically layered and just an overall fun song, "Pot Kettle Black" points out how "You are so oblivious to yourself" reminding us not to get caught by it. Reflective song writer and easy listening. Wilco is a musical jam I would keep coming back to.
Oh, I wish I liked this album better. The sonic background is very cool and unsettling, but I always find Jeff Tweedy to be kind of lugubrious. This time I put some of my prejudice aside and could approximate the mood the album is going for, but it's still a heavy lift. It comes alive for me a little on Heavy Metal Drummer, the only track with a dash of humor in it.
This is a challenging, downtrodden record that I wasn’t feeling upon first listen. After giving it some more time I’m appreciating more of the nuances and emotional approach of this project. I want to come back to it and dive into the lyrical focus more at some point, maybe in the colder months. I feel like there is something quite interesting going on here in the uncomfortable, almost too realistic human emotions though it may take some time to fully connect. 3 listens Favorite Tracks: Jesus, Etc.; I Am Trying to Break Your Heart
Never heard of this before. I enjoyed it on first listen. Will definitely give it more time. 3.5 for now but can't offer that rating
Top 3 Ashes of american flags Heavy metal drummer Kamera
Roger
Really good indie rock. Could’ve been a 5 if not for a few misses, specifically on the latter half of the album
A Ghost is Born is better but still great
Great album, I'll be back for more
Do we always like Wilco or do we just age ?
I played this in the background while gaming and I was surprised that it actually was pretty pleasant to listen to, even though I dont enjoy this genre of music nearly as much as hiphop
If yacht rock is the defining genre of my mid to late 40s, Wilco's early style of alt-country was the genre of my early to mid 20s, although this was the album where they really kind of moved on from that, and I kind of moved on from them. I remember seeing them on this tour in Ohio as one of my last acts as an Ohio resident and it was pretty great, but mostly for songs not on this album. It's great but also pretty boring at times. Kamera, Jesus etc, and Heavy Metal Drummer are standouts. In Wilco fashion, it really peters out there at the end. Thanks for the memories Wilco.
Awesome
I could write a book on this album. Just saw Wilco live two weeks ago. Saw them play this album straight thru in Chicago a few years back two nights in a row for the 20th anniversary of this album. Saw them play a bunch of songs from this album in Iceland a few years ago as well. I think seeing Wilco live unlocks the albums for you. I get the naysayers that only know Wilco from their albums. They are a totally different band live, and once you see them live, the albums come across completely different. I love this album, but do not think it’s their best work, even if it’s the one that was the greatest challenge, and opened the door for all the rest. 4.5
Earnest and well-made. I didn’t feel like I was really connecting to it, but it did put me in a state of melancholic reflection, so that’s something.
As someone who loves Max deeply, I've owed him a listen-through of this album, his all-time fave, for a verrrrry long time. I'd heard many of the songs on the album before, but never all together and never in order. I found it to be extremely cohesive, emotionally and sonically, and I enjoyed the instrumentation quite a lot (especially the horns). The lyrics were so clever and moving, and the tracks transitioned seamlessly. Unfortunately, there is a disturbing paradox at the heart of my experience. As much as I recognize Jeff Tweedy's centrality to the identity of Wilco as lyricist and ideas guy, his voice has such a negative effect on me that it alone almost took this down to 3 stars. It's really, really unpleasant to listen to, in my opinion. Part of me wishes he would keep writing and leave the singing to someone else, but I also recognize that he wants to sing his own truths. I get that, but it just sounds so awful. I liked listening to everything else a lot though! I'm sorry, Max and Jeff!!!!
A brilliant indie album that I had listened to prior, I thought it was good but it didn't fully click. But after this second listen, I finally clicked. A very good listen filled with somber and beautiful vibes, definitely a great album in my repertoire. Fav Songs Ashes of American Flags I Am Trying to Break Your Heart Jesus, Etc. Is it Top 1001 Worthy (is it essential)? Yes, an amazing indie rock record that has shown it's influence and critical quality over the years. If you like alternative music especially Radiohead, I would recommend.
I’m going through a bit of an existential crisis with Wilco. Grappling with my age, their sound, the audience that listens to Wilco, what Wilco have become. I’m lucky I got into them at a young age, I listened to them A LOT. I saw them live ten years ago had a panic attack and have been out on them since. It’s more the middle age dread, the clean cut Patagonia crowd the likes them now, and the easy listening sound they’ve become. It’s complicated. Anyways, this is pretty good, half the album tips into an overly saccharine sound that I bristled at. I am trying to break your heart rides that line but is so “avant garde” it kinda works, and Jesus etc. I think I’m just past Wilco, I like their first two better, and I WAY prefer Uncle Tupelo
Early 00s indie rock is definitely my jam, and this is one of the best examples of the genre. (Probably the best received critically of the group, even if I have others I personally favor). There's also an interesting, sort of eerie tie-in with it originally being slotted for release on 9/11/01, considering the content of some of the songs.
Solid stuff. It feels like it was probably meticulously created, and it also feels like much of that effort was wasted on these ears. Other than the bullshit feedback at the end of a couple tracks (which, to be clear, *IS* pretentious bullshit) it rarely grabbed me, but I still largely enjoyed my time with it. 3.7
lost a star for the intro song alarm screech, gained it back for the nice outro
This album reminded me of Elliot Smith a bit, which I liked. I imagine for a lot of people this is "boring" music but I liked it enough I'd listen to it again.
So, this album came out in 2003, so I obviously did not listen to it at the ripe age of 7, but my first hazy memory of it was when I was approximately 14-16. During that time, I listened to pretty much exclusively death metal, and if it wasn’t that, I didn’t like it, or not outwardly so at least. I had heard some hits in the following years, but surely not had really given a critical listen to this ever. Amazing album, very tom petty; had a lot of political themes that resonate today again, but also some good instrumental work as well. Stand outs for me were “Jesus etc”, “I’m the man who loves you”, and “heavy metal drummer”. This definitely deserves its spot on the list 4.4/5
Good.
Yeah it's cool but reworked versions is way better then originals
Yeah lush stuff by a lush band, really calming beautiful music. An album that feels nostalgic but not really sure what for. 4.5/5.0 Best Song: I’m the man who love you
A very enjoyable album, he is a great song writer, i should really listen to Wilco more
Melhor do que eu esperava
Great early Alt rock selection enjoyed! 931/1001
an album so good i forgot i listened to it
Every song is a 4.5/5
Das hätte ich nicht erwartet, gutes Album, schöne Melodien.
Light 7/10
I like this just as much as I remember, an excellent record bookended by two meh songs
made salmon patties to this, good vibes, recorded before 9/11 :o
Nostalgia here earns a point, I enjoyed this more than I thought I would since I'd be revisiting this, I own it on CD but haven't listened to it in years. I really did not like the other Wilco album on this list but I did find myself enjoying YHF more after so many years.
Rate: 8/10.
Not my favorite thing ever so far but they have a good sound
8/10
pretty good!
I’m a fan!
A lot of great songs on this album
Raw and weird collection of country adjacent rock songs that sometimes gets a little too weird but almost always makes up for it Jesus etc is a damn near perfect song 4
The whole album feels like wandering through a rainy city with nowhere to go. Favourite Songs: I Am Trying To Break Your Heart, Jesus, Etc., Heavy Metal Drummer, Pot Kettle Black. Least Favourite Songs: Poor Places, Reservations.
If you haven't listened to this album on a good pair of headphones, you're missing out. Wilco takes the basic building blocks of folk rock and adds so many wonderful details and textures that elevate it to an entirely different place. Everything from unusual percussion patters, to squelching electronic effects, to layers of distorted feedback, to subtle string arrangements give this album its unique character. The songwriting at the core is fairly straightforward, and a weaker band could use these unique textures as a distraction from this simplicity, but Wilco strikes a perfect balance between these two elements of their sound. Jeff Tweedy's lyrics focus on the isolation and confusion brought on by 21st century life, and the unusual instrumentation is the perfect compliment to these themes. This is the perfect example of how tweaking a familiar formula can create something transcendent.
I sort of like the reticent punk singer feel. Listened to this in the background and found myself quietly grooving in a good mood. I'm gonna lean in and give it a 4.
I really enjoyed this album. I actually even saved two to my random playlist. Excellent album.
I do have a soft spot for folk, rock, country alt combo. I never got into Wilco during their hey-day (not sure why) but I did enjoy this one.
A strong 4.5 for me. But a couple songs I didn’t love back in 2003 (or now).
Nostalgia indie
Sunday, 7 June, 2026 Great Sunday album. Wilco breaks the rules. Changes the game. Great album.
My Dad’s favorite band, but had not heard much before this. I liked it quite a bit as far as folk indie rock goes. A couple of skips for me, but overall very solid. 4/5
Wonderful. This is a bit noisier than Being There, so this isn't my favorite Wilco album. I'd happily come back to this any old time, though.
Star for Jesus
This album got better and better. Four stars
This is a very good record !
very soothing, smooth. I liked it, it reminded me of britpop.
Nice stuff
This is one of those albums that I had been meaning to listen to, but never got around to it. Glad that I have heard it now though, moody yet experimental. I can hear the influence that this had on a lot of musicians that I really like (Bon Iver, Sufjan, The National etc). I do think I like the works of those other artists more though. Part of it may be just how sedate the vocals are, but I also think it may just be that I haven't spent a lot of time with this album yet and my appreciation may grow over time. At this stage, this is a 4, but that may become a 5 in the future.
This is a gem. Probably their best. The genre is alt-countryJeff Tweedy’s songwriting is so good. The best songs are I am trying to break your heart, Jesus etc., heavy metal drummer and I am the man who loves you. Some of the songs challenge the listeners but that is okay. Highly recommended
Listened previously. Expectations: High - Verdict: Great - I really like Jeff Tweedy's songwriting and his voice. The opener here introduces the album perfectly. Kamera is bouncy and Radio Cure is calm while building to a great cathartic climax. Jesus, Etc. is a great song, Ashes Of American Flags steps up some of the weirder sounds. Heavy Metal Drummer is a lovely pop tune and I'm The Man Who Loves You is a great groove. Pot Kettle Black is good and Reservations is beautiful. Really excellent album.
This album is unique — I don’t know if in a good or bad way, but it’s unique. Throughout the whole record it feels like a peaceful war, like a robot writing songs about how the earth was represented in 2002. It’s hellish yet somehow sweet, full of contrasts. They end it with an amazing song: the last bit of Reservations calls out to you — hurt, framed, dishonest. Truly something to listen to, so you can decide whether to hate it or love it.
4.5
Chill album
I listened through this twice and enjoyed it more the second time. Solid album with some catchy tracks. I liked this one
Solid alt-country/indie album.
There is not much wrong, or even less than good on this record. Maybe an extra kick in the gut, wrench of the heart or dollop of Top 40 could push it higher. As a body of work, the album is universally excellent as it movingly explores Jeff Tweedy’s state of mind. Most of that mind focuses on trying to hang onto his relationships, which hang by a thread on several songs, but others see Tweedy mining nostalgia to keep his love alive. The thread songs hit hard in the beginning as bleakness prevails in “I Am Trying To Break Your Heart” and “Radio Cure.” Tweedy knows his relationship is on the rocks, likely due to his mistakes. The songs come close to breaking down, but the singer and lyrics offer clinging hope. Elsewhere, the romance that was once there, and still exists, makes an appearance. The wistful, driving and first-love of “Heavy Metal Drummer” keeps the album from becoming a full dirge. Likewise, “I’m the Man Who Loves You” utilizes a punchy set of horns and squawking guitar to add liveliness to Tweedy’s affirmational title. Unusual percussion instruments and strings on nearly every number add engaging elements, although at times feel a bit showpiecey. Tweedy is not a technically gifted vocalist, but he fits with the melodies to match the mood of a song in a gifted manner. Wilco has fallen into the “uncool” category in the last decade. True or not, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot Hotel is a top notch record.
This album is definitely a grower. Simply from beginning to end I found myself liking their style more. At times, mostly in the beginning, it was a tad too slow and lamenting for me, but by the end, a song like "Reservations" made my heart swell. I definitely think I will reach back for song on this album and find my ranking rising. However, I was not expecting Elliott Smith to seem more vibrant than Wilco.
I like it! It may be a case of having listened to it at the right time in my life, but I think it holds up. In particular it picks up towards the middle from Jesus Etc onwards. It's more Flaming Lips/Beck psychedelia than I remember. I had if filled as straightforward guitar Pitchfork/Garden State indie
I don’t know if it’s because I’m pretty depressed right now or what, but this album hit me in the emotions. I did some research and it came out right after 9/11 and that made sense. Very emotional lyrics. Lots of odd notes and off putting sounds. Maybe not something I’d listen to on repeat, but loved the first listen through experience. 4.5
Definitely my vibe. Pretty out there at times but grounded enough to make it feel like a stable listen.
4. I’ve heard Jesus Etc. and Heavy Metal Drummer quite a bit in the past. I enjoyed War on War quite a bit. I Am Trying to Break Your Heart kinda threw me for a loop at first between its almost discord and odd lyrics. I had this album pegged as a 3 but kept coming back to it.
Love a classic emo album Playlist add: "Heavy Metal Drummer"
Ahh a classic indie/hipster/alt-country darling. This album starts of strong with I am Trying to Break Your Heart. Jesus Etc. is just an absolutely timeless song. I also like Kamera,, I'm The Man Who Loves You, and Poor Places. I got into Wilco a little late and maybe this isn't the stone cold classic its reputation portrays, but it is a very good listen.
No empieza de la mejor forma pero acaba muy bien, muy melancólico. Un sonido de los 2000s que recuerda a las tardes de verano siendo niño.
Lovely to revisit this. A great album
Canciones que tienen partes curiosas pero algunas otras muy wenas, me gustó lo calmo de algunas
4.5/5. In 2024 I took a trip to Chicago with two close friends of mine. We did a ton of the typical touristy stuff like the Bean, getting deep dish, going to the top of a skyscraper, etc.. but when we were on an architecture boat tour along the Chicago River I saw the Marina City towers and thought to myself “woah, the Wilco Towers!” I immediately snapped a photo and edited it to look as close to the cover of Yankee Hotel Foxtrot as I could. Due to that moment I ended up listening to the album for the first time in forever on my flight back home and fell in love with the album again. The opener “I am trying to break your heart” has this great sense of unease to it with these random drum hits going off along with a strange groove forming from the bass and piano parts. Then you get “Kamera” next which is a much more structurally normal song, but it’s also a banger. I also love “Radio Cure” which feels very loose in its verses but suddenly gains structure in its chorus, leading to a really nice back and forth. And the strong track list goes on and on with great songs like “Jesus etc” “heavy metal drummer” or “war on war.” If you’re looking for some good 2000’s indie, you really can’t go wrong with Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.
Solid! Really good, excellent songwriting
4/5 Best Song: Jesus, Etc. Worst Song: Heavy Metal Drummer Weirdest Song: Radio Cure Great variety from track to track that carries through the entire album. Each song has a unique style but remains rooted in its eclectic indie rock DNA. Hard to pick a favorite or least favorite but "Jesus, Etc." is stuck in my head days after listening.
Jesus etc is a real classic and the other tracks are very strong too.
It took me a few listens to appreciate this album more I did think it was a bit overrated at one point but it think as an album yankee hotel foxtrot is a great experience some of the bands best songs are on here like i am trying to break your heart and Jesus etc definitely wilcos magnum opus 8/10 Favourite: I Am Trying to Break Your Heart Least Favourite: I'm the Man Who Loves You
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot was my second album by Wilco. I really enjoyed Being There, so I went into this expecting big things and it definitely delivered. This is a fantastic album. I had it playing over and over throughout the evening, and it got better with every listen. It’s proof that American bands can make brilliant indie music, blending thoughtful songwriting with experimental and ambient sounds in a way that feels natural rather than forced. The album manages to sound both warm and distant at the same time, which gives it a really unique atmosphere. I’ll definitely be coming back to this one again. Favourite tracks: Reservations is a lovely track, and I really enjoyed I Am Trying to Break Your Heart. Honestly, every song on the album brings something worthwhile. Least favourite tracks: Every song deserves its place on the album. Album artwork: A really cool and memorable cover, even if I’m still not entirely sure what I’m looking at.
Like a less good Radiohead, good though
Need a bit more time with this but i reckon I could love this, right up my street. Interesting story behind it too, always nice to see a record label snubbed 8 / 10 Best track/s: heavy metal drummer, poor places, I am trying to break your heart
Enjoyed it a lot, great listening experience, and very unique
Love this. It's also leaning heavily into the Indie genre, but it works well for them. The mumble pop gets a little old, but the beats hold it together.
Absolute new for me, its nice!
I thought this would be thinner than I remember but the 2nd half of the album is very sweet.
Very nice Americana from a band I only knew from their work with Billy Bragg. Will listen again and I think it will grow on me. Jesus etc was my favourite on first listen.
some might argue that this album is boring but in my eyes it reflects the simpleness of everyday life and therefore it‘s really beautiful
I had this album on in the background while I did household chores, and honestly it was just right for that particular activity. Wilco feels more or less like most modern day indie bands, to me there's nothing particularly outstanding about them. Doesn't mean they don't make music that's pleasant to listen to or keep on in the background!
Excellent and surprisingly modern sounding. I’ve put off Wilco for many years because I’d expected them to sound nothing like this, frankly. Will take a deep dive.
me gusta mucho el estilo de wilco, especialmente los vocals de las canciones. conecté con algunas lyrics más que otras y terminé guardando 4 canciones. el álbum es objetivamente muy bueno.
Honestly i cant say i *get* it in full but i like a lot of whats here
A tu z każdą piosenką jest lepiej. Dobra alternatywa z początku XXI wieku. Melancholijna, niespieszna, lekka, ale gęsta. Piękny wokal. Dobra muzyka. 7.5/10
Goed maar soms ook een beetje saai
Muy lindo y relajante en su mayoría, tiene canciones bien estructuradas pero a su vez le meten sonidos y cosas más experimentales o para desorganizar los temas, las letras en su mayoría son abstractas pero algunas saben abordar ideas sobre el amor, la falta de pertenencia y estar perdido en la sociedad, muy bueno, creo que es uno de ésos albumes que suenan como su portada.
FAVS (top 3): i am trying to break your heart; jesus, etc.; reservations menções honrosas: radio cure, ashes of american flag, i'm the man who loves you gente bom album prometeu nada entregou tudo, é definitivamente mais focado nas letras e como n sou mt de focar nissso entao meh mas deu pra dar uma ouvidinha e entendi umas coisas e bem dahora! curtii nota final: 4/5
I wish I’d discovered Wilco in high school. I think I would have gotten into this album. Four stars because I enjoyed it and would listen again.
I know this is one of the better Wilco albums, but I forget just how many of the Wilco songs I know are one it. I dig it.
Lovely. Might need a few more listens for me to get the full benefit
I kinda like this. More than their newer stuff for sure.
I've always liked what I've heard from Wilco, even though I don't listen to them much for whatever reason. Good album.
good but not memorable for me, need to listen again?
I really enjoy Wilco. I've seen them live a few times, and they put on a good show. I do think this is an excellent album; however, I think it's the third best Wilco album. That certainly means it's damn good, but it also suggests that this one maybe doesn't live up to the hype. It's hailed as a masterpiece, and I think it's just good, maybe not great, certainly not incredible. Now there are a few outstanding songs like "Jesus, etc.", "I'm the Man Who Loves," and "Poor Places" to name a few. But there are also some that really bring this down, especially ending with the snooze fest "Reservations". Overall, great album but I'll take A Ghost is Born over it any day. 4.5 stars.
pleasantly enjoyed
Duh! But... I have to dock a star to leave room for Being There and A Ghost Is Born to be 5-star albums and for the fact that I prefer the live versions of every one of these tracks.
Great album.
3.6 Funnily enough I had Wilco for the first time just the other week even though I'm right near the end of my time here. I thought it (Being There) was pretty unsurprising, but noted when scrolling through their page on Spotify that they had this album (YHF) that I'd seen referenced quite a few times but never explored. Lo and behold, here it is. It is much better than Being There. But it isn't fantastic. It's again, slightly dull, but gone is the country vibe that dragged Being There down. Maybe I'm missing something, but other than a few interesting bits (eg in Poor Places) it's again a rather dull, but inoffensive, affair.
Nice indie pop. Very good but not great.
Great!
Hey, some songs I’ve heard live 20+ times!
Goog
Really liked this. Loved radio cute and kamera.
I haven't listened to much Wilco, and I sort of thought they were a mellow country-rock band, but this album has an art-rock flavor that I really liked. I haven't listened to much of this genre, but I love the twilight-like mood of indie rock from this era.
Nice. Don’t love the voice.
3 1/2
Really enjoyed this, my first full Wilco album. Interesting instrumentation, beautiful melodies, good lyrics, and enough variety while keeping a consistent vibe. Favorite songs: Jesus, Ect., Reservations, Radio Cure
Listened while working so not as much attention paid as normal, but really liked the vibes of it!
Very nice album, songs are so harmonious and soothing, very melody of drums
Okay, so i've know of this one for a while. Like 5 years ago I saw a thing that's like "An album for every year I've been alive" and I wanted to make my own, but I was very lacking in the 2000s department (most of what I listen to is new releases). I tried this one out back then, but it didn't click with me. I didn't hate it, but I wasn't amazed by it. I've still been curious about this album ever since. Why some of my favorite artists, like Samia, hold it in such high regard? So now it's time for me to give this album another try. Maybe I'll like it more this time around. 1. I Am Trying to Break Your Heart - lyrically simple but interesting. I like, but don't love. I like the sound 2. Kamera - okay guitars, I really really like the sound of this one. 3. Radio Cure - This one is just okay 4. War on War - I like the start. I liked this one pretty well 5. Jesus, Etc. - I liked the sound. 6. Ashes of American Flags - This one is fine. Taking a break til my pain goes away, holy shit. 7. Heavy Metal Drummer - Samia covered this song! This one is fun. 8. I'm the Man Who Loves You - This one seems cute & fun 9. Pot Kettle Black - Oh, I like the start. This one's okay, I kinda vibe with it 10. Poor Places - The style of this one isn't my favorite. 11. Reservations - I like that this one feels calmly noisy. It's got a serene yet eerie feeling about it. This one is good! I actually reminds me a bit of Ethel Cain's production. I think when I first listened to this I just really wasn't in an acoustic mood. There was a time i needed to escape that sound, the sound i kinda grew up with, to expand my taste. It's nice being back here tho, along with all the other styles I've collected an affinity for since then. This will probably never be in my personal top albums list, but I actually did enjoy it quite a bit this time around!
Great album! Why haven’t I heard this before?!
Everything is so familiar, I wonder how this album escaped me when it was released. Really enjoyed this one, a creative amalgam of early music in the genre, perfected in an updated style.
First listen - there are some really exceptional musical explorations here, and some duds. But overall, this is something special.
This is an album from a not-great period of life. I can see why it connected then.
Enjoyable!
Excellent.
Haunted-radio indie with a few too many off-tune piano moments—but ‘Heavy Metal Drummer’ is so charming it pulls the whole thing up a star.
3.5
I've never been able to get the five-star love for this album but I do like it quite a bit especially when it hits its stride with the trio of songs "War On War", "Jesus, Etc.", and "Ashes of American Flags". (8.3) ★★★★
Great album. "Jesus Etc." Is the highlight. 4.5 stars
A good album that I'd like to give more time. There are definitely some great tracks here, but it feels like it will require repeat listenings to land on a definitive rating for me. It would be a four, maybe a five; until I can listen more I'll settle on four.
It definitely has something althought I don't know what it is. Not sure if it deserves it mythical status but it is a good record.
It’s a bit quiet for me at the start. I really like “ I’ll the Man Who Loves You”
B+
very interesting sound and vibe. would recommend but not something i'd play!
Cozy, intimate, a little rough around the edges, but makes you feel good. This is the solid dependable bourbon in your liquor cabinet, no frills, just a lot of solid songs with some wild stuff in the background. It's hard not to love this album, though it's not perfect by any means. But it's still well worth the effort.
Great album from a fine band
This was a good find on the list. Can't believe this album escaped me back then, although I was mainly listening to metal at the time. Really enjoyed this and looking forward to becoming more acquainted with it going forwards. 4 stars, but a strong 4.
This one was a nice surprise, really liked it and more to my tastes. Despite that there weren't really any breakout points where I loved it. The songs that felt like they were the album hits I wasn't as keen on. Very good vibes release.
Never listened to this before but knew it was praised by many. Very good album, and falls right into the type of music I tend to enjoy.
Strong and no doubt influential on the crop of Americana tinged indie rock that pervaded the 2010s. This album doesn’t have distinct enough songs for me to latch onto, but I liked it.
This is my second Wilco album on this list and it's so much better, much more indie rock than what I was expecting.
New to me and rather enjoyable
I enjoy!!!!
Is Wilco and this album way over hyped and over rated? Totally. Is my job to under rate this album as some sort of correction? Not at all. I'd give it 7/10, but I'll round up to 4/5.
Interesting, not sure what I was expecting but it was a pretty diverse album, nice listen. Feels familiar but wasn’t. 4/5
Nice easy listen :)
"This was a fun little album. It screams 2000s indie but in a good way. The lyrics are full of whimsy backed by catchy instrumentals. Crazy how this album was supposed to drop on 9/11 when the album cover is two buildings and there's lyrics about "tall buildings shake."
Beautifully unsettled. The mix of fragile songwriting and subtle sonic weirdness gives it a quiet tension that keeps revealing new details. Not every detour lands, but the mood is hard to shake.
Cool indie album.
4 - great album, but a little too subdued
Pretty solid album, I enjoyed the vibe a lot. Definitely want to revisit in the future, I’m kinda getting why People love the band. Low key vibes, I think it’ll grow on me. 4 stars
Really lovely
Great but I’m not a huge fan.
Har uppfattat dom som ett hypat indieband men har aldrig lyssnat. Bra produktion, flera bra låtar. Blev inspirerad av ackordföljder och instrument. Kommer lyssna på dom igen. Känns som en 4a.
This was an interesting album. It was a combination of this sort of standard indie rock songs with this really trippy electronic stuff mixed in. Each part on its own would have been a 3, but together I think this album deserves a 4. A low 4, maybe, but a 4. It reminded me ever so slightly of Tunng, which is one of my favorite bands. Favorite Tracks: Jesus, Etc.
4⭐️/5 02.27.2026
Always meant to but never got around to really listening to Wilco. I’ll be listening to more for sure.
It is good but a little bit boring
Lustigerweise erst am Wochenende gehört. Mag ich gern!
Was war das? Also außer mega cool?!
I missed the bandwagon with Wilco and only got into them much later after listening to a Jeff Tweedy solo recording. This is an exceptional album, strong musicianship from start to finish. 4 Stars. Fave track - Jesus don’t cry.
I hate that this list has made me realize I’m the type of white person who loves Wilco. You either die young or live long enough to discover you love Wilco.
I am trying to break your heart - 4 Kamera - 5 Radio cure - 4 War on war - 4 Jesus, etc. - 5 Ashes of american flags - 3 Heavy metal drummer - 5 I'm the man who loves you - 4 Pot kettle black - 4 Poor places - 3 Reservations - 3
- i love how its quite unique - i am major fan of lyricism in this album - i very much like the instrumentals in all tracks - the man who loves u is proy my fav track
Weird to think they were making this music when I was in diapers
So much of this album-rating experiment is tied to whether a particular album hits you on a day you are open to receiving it.
8/10
Instrumentally this album is brilliantly accomplished, and ticks so many of the boxes that make up an interesting, coherent album. The production is also strong, and the album really peaks in the middle section with a few stand out tracks. What lets it down slightly is the fact that it flows very much on a similar tone throughout and lacks variety. This doesn’t make it a bad listen, but it leaves you wanting a little more - or at least another standout track - by the end of the 51 minute run.
Beautiful album, great production. 9/10 Favourite track: Jesus, Etc.
I liked this more than I expected. When I looked the album up on Wikipedia it was described as “art rock” and I was like “ugh”. But by the end of the first track I was into it. Each song was different and I found the album interesting.
Liked it. Nice mixture of downbeat and upbeat tracks. Would listen again.
Yesss
I may be the odd man out with this album, but there are some really great tracks here. Also, to be fair, it was one of our in the car CDs from 2008-2010 soI know this album really well.
Hard for me to review this one objectively, as it feels like my 20s are bound up in this album's sounds. I didn't get Wilco until I moved to the Midwest, which happened a month before this album came out. I still love it, still love this band. I think I've come to appreciate some of their later albums even more than this one, but YHF is where it all starts for me.
A wonderful album that I need to be in the right mood to really enjoy. I was in that mood last night, so I enjoyed everything except the 60's psychedelia of "I'm the Man Who Loves You". Some very experimental sounds that actually work well.
another band i didn’t know, another album i really enjoyed
had already heard before this and its so good
199/1089 it’s giving Sufjan Stevens vibes and i’m enjoying it. The soft rock, melancholy vibe is quite appealing to me. it could have some higher highs for sure but it still has a nice flow. faves: Heavy metal drummer, I am trying to break your heart, Radio cure, War on war, Pot kettle black 75/100
I’m not sure the moody, experimental Wilco is my favorite Wilco. But I’m also not sure it isn’t my favorite Wilco. Hmm.
Nothing about this album changed for me upon re-listening to the whole thing: I still really love many of the songs - the amazing opener, Ashes of American Flags, Poor Places - but several others still border into cheesy cringe for me in a way that also hasn't changed (Kamera, Heavy Metal Drummer.) It's mostly a solid, coherent listen but for those two clunkers which keep this from tipping it into unfettered amazingness.
I expected a straight Americana record, but 𝘠𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘦𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘍𝘰𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘵 turns out to be something far stranger and more experimental. Wilco dissolve their usual songwriting into layers of static, warped guitars, and fragmented arrangements that constantly feel like they’re breaking apart and reforming in real time. Beneath all that noise sits a warm, wounded heart — Jeff Tweedy’s melodies still shine through, just in a more abstract, ghostly way. It’s a challenging listen at first, but a rewarding one, full of subtle beauty hiding behind the distortion.
This was great. Bit bright eyes-y. The last half of the album really made it for me.
Never play anything by them before. Really enjoyed it. Reminds me of the grateful dead. Will play again.
Feel like I’ve listened to every band around these but this one has passed me by. I enjoyed it, Jesus Etc I did recognise and that was the standout for me. Getting The Shins and Yo La Tengo similarities. Could easily be a 4 on repeat listens. You know what fuck it, it’s having a 4!
Gostei muito desse álbum. Ele é baseado em violões e sons de rádio ao fundo (!!!). Brincadeira. Encontramos aqui boas melodias, bons arranjos vocais e instrumentais. É basicamente um folk rock de qualidade. Faixas de destaque: "Radio Cure" (tem uma bela levada dedilhada ao violão), "War on War" (bem animada e com o que parece ser um theremim ao fundo), "Jesus, etc" (essa tem uma intro muito boa, que curiosamente lembra a melodia de uma música do Pepeu Gomes). "Ashes" tem uma guitarra que muito me agradou e um piano lofi legal. "Poor Places" (aqui o cantor "fala" o nome do álbum haha), "Reservations" (a mais bela e nem por isso menos experimental). Esqueci de mencionar "Pot Kettle Black" que também é boa e que lembra um encontro entre REM e The Cure.
4.15/5 Stars Top Songs: Jesus, etc, Pot Kettle black, Kamera
At points it tries to be weird for weirdness' sake, and can even border on slightly whiny, but as a whole it's a pretty good album.
This bundle of experimental indie ambience has a bit of sentimental value to me, so I'm already familiar with it. A good album, for sure, just maybe not the be-all-end-all of indie rock that some make it out to be
I like the use of synths They build cool ambient space The guy has a nice voice The songwriting is nice too Very warm Great project but I don’t see how it’s one of the greatest albums ever but it is solid
Beautiful sounding record, deeply complex without being obnoxious.
one of the three Wilco albums i really like!
It's pretty good. I'm like 3.5 land with it and will go 4 because it has lots of cool recording/sound moments. Never got into this band back in the day but I know that cool people liked them. I actually know of the first song from a different Chicago band. Check out JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound, I am Trying to Break Your Heart. Because it sounds waaay better as an upbeat soul song!
This is the most Indie-er than thou record of all time. It’s a music critic’s wet dream. I remember Chicago based Pitchfork definitely masturbating all over it. In reality, it’s a good album that was hyped up to ridiculous hipster heights. Jesus, Etc. is a one of the better songs of the oughts. Elsewhere we get DIY acoustic art rock with some cool feedback and experimentation. It’s produced extremely well. Overall it’s a worthy addition to someone’s catalog but personally, it’s not as mind blowing as some critics would make me believe.
Another band I've been wanting to explore more of, thanks album generator! I saw these guys live in 2021 and it was a really great show, but I never took the time to follow up on more of their offerings. I love when the music gets all crazy at the end of some of the songs. It's a colorful contrast to the general soft reflectiveness of the lyrics and overall vibes. I enjoyed the diversity in sound and creative instrumentation throughout the album too. This was pleasing to my ears and soul.
an art rock album that many people say had unintentional references to a world after the devastating september 11th attacks; the album recorded a bit before it all happened. another rock album that's soft, quiet and depressing. it's an album about society and how people struggle to cope with circumstances... an album that almost subtly reminds listeners about the shitty past, and as much as you'd like to change it, you can't rewrite history. it drags a little bit, but it's a really good rock album.
Really nice album. I only knew the one about the serial drummer lover, lots to like here, especially as the band's sound expands into nice weird places along the way.
One of those albums where at first I wasnt paying close enough attention and I would only tune in when it would get dissonant and weird. But on a more focused relisten, this was actually really lovely, with some really cool creative flair with the samples and noise thrown in at certain parts to keep it quirky and weird at just the right amount. Apparently this was quite the recording process where they ran into people quitting, the record label refusing to release it at first, and then the band getting the rights back or something and finally putting it out there. Glad it got released, was definitely a great listen.
i love wilco they are so loved in the community but so underrated everywhere else.
A truly great album. It's nothing complicated or taking huge risks, but it's done perfectly. Wonderfully produced, the vocals sounds great and there's some powerful lyrics in there. The kind of album that can be played anytime during the year and fit the mood. So close to a 5* for me - unsure if I prefer this or Summerteeth. Favourites: I Am Trying to Break Your Heart Kamera Jesus, Etc. Heavy Metal Drummer
Bought this when it came out. First listen was on my morning commute. I was non-plussed. It felt way more like an atmospheric piece as a whole and while I could appreciate the ambition and experimentation it really wasn't my jam. I put it on the shelf. Through the years a lot of these songs have become very familiar to me but I probably hadn't listened to the album all the way through since that first listen. I watched the documentary about its creation and that was an interesting look into the process and the band drama but the album still didn't resonate with me. I'm sure the tempos and sleepy-eyed vocal delivery are a big part of that. Listening today I have a bigger appreciation of how it fits together as a piece but still had a hard time sticking through the entire album. The songs are good and the interstitial 'noise' works but I still have a hard time with the tempos and delivery. Still worthy of four stars for everything around that album.
Revisiting this album after listening it "back in the day" I find it really interesting.
Favorites: Heavy Metal Drummer, I Am Trying To Break Your Heart
I liked it. I even listened to it twice in a row to debate the 4 versus the 5. Having heard Jesus, Etc. prior to the rest of the album, the rest of the songs were definitely a pleasant surprise. The sounds of Radiohead and Elliott Smith dominated my impression of the album—hence the 4 stars, because I do like them! In the end, it was difficult to determine the answer to “who is Wilco?” Although, whoever they do want to be, they can absolutely do it well.
An album that was on in the background a lot while I was growing up but I never actually listened to it until now. There is some nostalgia aiding my listening experience, but overall I did enjoy listening to this album. Wasn't a huge fan of the first 3 tracks, but the run of tracks from "War on War" to "I'm the Man Who Loves You" is phenomenal. Indie is hit and miss with me and this is one of those rare instances where it does hit. Solid 4/5.
Pretty good indie rock, 3.8/5
Good album. A little slow, but in the right mood, I could see this being awesome.
As an indie rock lover, I am shocked I haven't listened to this album. It was genuinely interesting to listen to because of the subtle instrumentation elements and the genres (like the classic folk) encapsulated.
Please Stop Smiling 1001 Albums Generator 204 (1/13/2025) From the first couple minutes of I Am Trying To Break Your Heart, it's clear that Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is not going to be your run-of-the-mill indie rock. There are some really strange layers on this song, and its structure is so unique, alternative between these ever-shifting verses and these sometimes dissonant instrumental sections. And run-of-the-mill indie rock this is not. One of my favorite things about Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is the eclecticism on display. From post-rock, to folky indie, to alt-country/Americana, there is no shortage of different styles here, and Wilco does all of them well. Kamera and Radio Cure are much softer songs, which are still quite catchy, while War On War and Heavy Metal Drummer show a more energetic, jangly side of Wilco. Right near the middle of the album lies Jesus, Etc., which is one of my favorite songs ever, much less one of my favorites on YHF. I really loved this album so much more listening to it this time than I did when I first heard it a few years ago, but I do think that the last two songs are two of the weakest, and I especially disagree with the decision to end the album on a 7 minute ambient piece. However, the album is basically perfect besides that. 4.5/5, rounded down to 4. Favs: I Am Trying To Break Your Heart Jesus, Etc. Heavy Metal Drummer Least Fav: Reservations
Vibes: 2 Instruments: 3 Production: 4 Emotional Value: 4 Storytelling: 5 Album Cover: 1 Stand Outs: Radio Cure, Ashes of American Flags Overall: 3.8 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kinda reminds me of a mellower Radiohead, I feel like I really understand the messages behind the album and enjoyed it.
Great album
chill
4 utan tvek
This is a truly great album but I can only give it 4 stars in case the far superior A Ghost is Born or Sky Blue Sky are on the list. Most Chicago album cover of all time, though.
This was one of those little gems you find on this list that make you want more ...
Despite everything, one of the albums that got me into being a music snob.
Wilco is one of those bands I've always wanted to give a fair chance, and I'm glad I finally did. Very atmospheric, ambient, folky, almost like fleet foxes cooler cousins. Im eager to hear more.
An indie rock classic...mumble-y, opaque lyrics, some really cool songs like "I Am Trying to Break Your Heart, I love the humorous lyrics of songs like "Jesus Etc." and "Heavy Metal Drummer". I could see people and this group particularly not liking this album, but because I grew up with it I appreciate it. Its a 4 for me that I wont begrudge anyone giving a lower rating.
Was told back in our other Wilco review that this album would be on here so happy to finally listen. This was definitely better than the last one, had a lot more experimental stuff going on. Was good but can say after 2 albums that they are not going to be a top band for me. This is still on the high 3/low 4 line so i'll go up because it was bettert than the last. Reservations was really cool though at the end, felt like I was going to space.
Yeah nice!
Feeling a strong 7 to a light 8 on this one. 4/5
This album never grabbed me… but this time, on speakers on a lazy winter afternoon, it clicked a little for me. Once i found a way in (Jesus) I actually enjoyed this and understood the appeal. Will definitely be putting this on again.
Always made fun of my mom for listening to Wilco. Now I listen to Wilco. Oh how the mighty have fallen.
Great album good songs
A really good album, of which Radio Cure is probably my favourite. I probably prefer A Ghost is Born as a whole (though this is probably considered sacrilege by hardcore fans) so I will reserve my Wilco 5-star review for when that inevitably isn’t on the list.
A really coherent record, that benefits from repeated listens. I like that some songs swell to a clattering crescendo (‘I am trying to break your heart’, ‘I’m the man who loves you’) whereas others give space for the song to sit in (‘Jesus etc.’). Solid all round though I find it surprising that many prefer this to a ghost is born, which I think just edges it.
This was pretty enjoyable
a little too squishy for me, Morgan probably loves them!
Having seen Wilco in concert, and enjoying so much of their work, I feel like if I had rated them 20 years ago I would've given them 5 stars. I still really enjoy this album but it does not hold my attention in the same way, although it is still powerful and resonant and has my feet tapping.
Wilco’s best album!
I listened to this a few years ago, and didn’t remember enjoying it this much.
Radio Cure
Lidt bedre end den sidste, vi havde med dem, som allerede var super god. Kunne næsten lige så godt have været en 5'er
I really enjoyed this album. The instrumentals really carry it, I would honestly listen to these songs happily without lyrics. I like the unified theory songs better than the 2022 remaster.
Interesante. Hay tracks muy buenos. Tiene cambios creativos.
At one time this was one of my favourite albums. The sound of a band reaching their peak as they partially implode. Jim O'rourke is the flippin man. Always liked a Ghost is Born just that little bit more (sucker for a Hallo Gallo jam). New Tweedy might be the best thing he's done since Ghost is Born.
I wasn't able to hear this under the best conditions, I had a bose bluetooth speaker playing while trying to wrangle my young kids. It may have been 5 stars but I wont be able to go back and change it later. Regardless from what I could hear I really enjoyed and think this is worth being on the list. It plays to my predilections for kind of melancholy rock with noisy interludes
'Let's forget about the tongue tied lightning / Let's undress like cross-eyed strangers'; 'You have to learn how to die / If you want to be alive'; 'Strung down you cheeks / Bitter melodies turning your orbit around.' It makes very little sense to call Wilco the American Radiohead since, tho they both make pop songs that aren't always intelligible, the Chicagoans have every intention to vitalize their obscurity whereas the Brits are amnesiac thumb-twiddlers. Tweedy is a far better lyricist than Yorke, possessing the rare knack to turn a phrase that's felt before it's understood, or to reorder cliché just enuf for it to hit more profoundly. If only for 'Jesus etc.,' a country-rock classic that rivals the Dead's 'Ripple' for sheer beauty, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is glorious.
Sevi
Classic indie rock album that has a distinct early aughts sound. The standouts are more good than great ("Jesus, Etc." and "Heavy Metal Drummer") but as a whole album it works really well and there are no weak tracks.
Fav tracks: I Am Trying To Break Your Heart, Radio Cure, War on War, Ashes of American Flags, Jesus Etc., Least fav tracks: I'm The Man Who Loves You (you ever give a jazz guitarist a fuzz pedal?) Stray Thoughts While Listening - Really like the subtle instrumental textures near the beginning of the record, gamelan?? - Heavy Metal Drummer and I'm the Man Who Loves You both having pastiche openings felt a bit repetitive - Are they using the same vocal chain that Elliot Smith used on Pot Kettle Black?? (not a complaint) - Tag yourself I'm Lazy Locomotives - This album's losing me a bit in the second half ngl, Poor Places bringing me back a bit though - Poor Places: They're saying the thing!!! (Yankee hotel foxtrot) - Okay it came back around for me OVERALL THOUGHTS Would probably give it a 3.5/5, rounding it up because I respect it's influence on the wider indie rock landscape. Some great songwriting from Jeff Tweedy, really liked the vibes of the first half of the album but when it picked up the energy a bit I feel some of the uniqueness it had going on was lacking. Brings me back to that early indie twee but not in a dated way!
Love the instrumentals!!! I Am Trying to Break Your Heart and Pot Kettle Black were my faves.
This was a nice surprise, I thought this might be something I’d like but didn’t expect it to be quite as good as it was. It opened with some promise but as I took it out on my dog walk on a grey and dreary November day, the mood of some of the songs threatened to be a fairly low key drab affair but it picked up in all the right places with good variation in mood and tempo. Jesus, Etc was like a big warm hug, Heavy Metal Drummer brought energy, and Pot Kettle Black felt like it was going to break out into In Between Days by the Cure at any moment. I shall be definitely returning here.
Very good.
I was never a huge Wilco fan in the early 2000s, but after listening to the entire album I get the appeal.
molto bello terzo migliore per ora dopo bad company e bowie
Hört namnet, kanske enstaka låtar, och fattat att jag borde kolla upp. Nu fattar jag hajpen. Märkligt brittisk ton för ett amerikanskt band. En stark fyra
4.3/5 first time listen pretty great songwriting whole album feels directly related to 9/11 in feel n theme only to find out it was written right before and not released until almost two years after completion
Super fun and fresh
I’ve been waiting for this one. My Dad is obsessed with Wilco, says Tweedy is a Dylan level song writer. I’ve always listened to various Wilco songs, I think A Ghost is Born is more my speed. A little proggier. This one came across as a little too cute. Tweedys vocal style comes across as obnoxiously passive. Not sure what the Wilco heads will say but I love the Star Wars album. If I’m honest it’s 3/5 but going 4 out of respect for my Dad.
Nice and mellow. Very familiar despite me not listening to them previously. For some reason was expecting it to be more country. End bit of Ashes of American flags felt out of place. Pavementesque at times though more of a commercial sound. Liked! Will listen again one day.
Was expecting complete boredom based on Wilco's collab with Billy Bragg. Was pleasantly surprised. I like the quirky arrangements and I'm a sucker for mosty acoustic guitar driven songs. Probably not the most original sounding having essence of Beck and Pavement but still lovely sounding
Never really listened to Wilco before beyond a few collab songs with Billy Bragg, so this was a pleasant introduction to their work. Plenty of originality and variation but not enough standout tracks to soar. It’s a a high 3, low 4 but I’m feeling generous.
Classic.
It's a war on war It's a war on war It's a war on war It's a war on war It's a war on war It's a war on war It's a war on war There's a war on
Who could have expected a song called Heavy Metal Drummer to sound so relaxing?
I know many are inclined to hate on Wilco because they are the soundtrack for a certain class of chino-wearing, fleece-vested white middle-aged dude. Fair enough but I'm bigger than that (in the best version of myself). I have to give this 4 because I gave Being There 4 and this is better than Being There. That said, I would say AM and Summerteeth are both better than the two that are on this list. Some of the songs are excellent but several others are adrift and adorned with needless knob-twiddling.
Every once in awhile I hear a Wilco song and think "oh, I think I like them"....and then I listen a little longer and realize why I keep changing my mind about that. Overall I find them hokey, and they make me sleepy. But this is definitely their best, and I guess I need to give it a 4 because of Jesus and Heavy Metal Drummer.
I'm trying to remember why I liked this album so much back then--was it just Jesus Etc.? The noise is noisy, there are some good tunes, but it doesn't really cohere. I read the reviews and I kind of agree with all of them.
Good listen. Will put on more often.
Very solid. Many artists I like cite this album as being a big inspiration and I can seem why. The instrumentation and the way layers are used seem like the start of the indie we think of today. Some of the drones did tend to make me sleepy, no 5 today. Also hated the transition into the last song but the rest of the noise in the album transitions has a cool effect.
This one is hard to rate. Is it boring (as the top reviewer writes?). Nah, it's more like an introvert at a party - you don't immediately get flashed by him but taking the time to talk to him yields a lot of interesting stories. After my first listen: "This is THE discovery of this list! Maybe the first 3 tracks are meh but the rest are all bangers!" But then after the 2nd listen I couldn't understand my previous enthusiasm. Anyway - maybe great, maybe not. Gave me a lot of Odelay vibes. Also: the fact that it was released 2 days before 9/11, has two towers on it and a song called "war on war" is scary!
Nice album, I don’t think it’s earth-shattering or anything but it’s good.
Really fun listen. I knew this record better than I thought. It isn't something I come back to frequently but that might change. There's so much going on and quite a bit of experimental production stuff - but the recordings still feel down to earth. That's a feat in itself. There will be intricate polyrhythms going on and all these beautiful textures -- meanwhile the acoustic guitar is flubbing the barchord. It's lovely. Wabi-sabi. The beginning and ending of this record might be where my heart lies. I Am Trying To Break Your Heart sounds like the song every 2025 alt-country revival bro is trying to write every time they sit down with a guitar. Poor Places - wow. Reservations too. As much as I thought this was a 3 when I listened, I can't shake the feeling it deserves a 4. OK I just listened to Poor Places again - it's a 4 for me.
so nostalgic
Went into this not knowing what to expect, and there were some things I really liked about this album. I feel like the sadder songs hit way better for me and were quite haunting in a good way. Radio Cure, Poor Places and Reservations are all excellent. Not everything hit for me out the gate, but the longer it went on, the more I got it.
Very early 2000s, I like it
Great, there is some filler so not a 5 star though
"jesus, etc" is one of the best songs of the 2000s but the rest of the record never grabbed me much. it was on my ipod for at least ten years but i mostly just listened to that one song.
I never got it. I mean, it’s fine but I don’t understand why it’s so acclaimed. I’ve tried listening to it a bunch of times before and I never really understood it, but this time I think I started to get it a little bit. I’m not ready to proclaim this as one of the best albums of all time or anything but it’s good. Maybe my biggest gripe is that Tweedy’s vocals are just boring. But I actually can see myself checking this out again. Sometimes you just don’t get it on the first listen. Or tenth.
Very good!
Underrated ξαναακουω
Cool album Wilco is Weezer with less selling out
Solid
Really like this one. The sonic journey always catches my by surprise. Gets better on every listen
It’s a mix of Beatles and Tom petty in my head anyways… haha good overall album, I enjoyed it from start to finish.
An indie folk classic. I always enjoy coming back to this one. There are a few outstanding tracks, and the rest are good as well. Solid listen.
Kept coming back to this album, got better each time.
Nice and chill and groovy and indie.
Really enjoy this my type of thing could become a fav
Really liked this album. The vibe of the album was overall sombre yet lively, making for a really nice reading playlist - read both JJK and Earthsea, which also shows its diverse track.
Way more experimental and interesting textural stuff than I thought, I think I really vibe with this