Reviews (page 3 of 8)
Musically, this is great and his voice is lovely. Lyrics can be serious and goofy in the same song, I kind of like that. Marz and It's Easier were the highlights for me.
Very good song writing. Humor is hard because it requires timing — accomplishing that across an album is no small feat. This earns a 4 — I’m glad I heard it.
It’s Easier if you just listen to this one yourself.
Very hype. One of my favs so far
enjoying the relaxed mood/tempo. I like how the voice doesn't always overwhelm everything else. It feels like all instruments are regard as equal. Will definitely check out more of his stuff. Appreciate finding new lgbt rep.
As Jesus Christ, I'm okay with homos, you are cool guys and girls
Didn't like the album after the first couple songs, but then it started to pick up. I thought this might be a 2 or 3, but after the last song moved it up to a 4. A lot of fun lyrics. Sigourney Weaver, Silver Platter Club, Jesus Hates, Outer Space, and Queen of Denmark stood out. "I wanted to change the world, but I couldn't even change my underwear". I would like to dive into more of his music and the band he had before this. 4/5
Made me smile a few times, music itself isn't bad.
When this came out I read the reviews and thought it was going to be some sort of whiny, miserabilist, folky experience. And then I heard Chicken Bones. The lesson is either don’t believe reviews or I should work on my reading comprehension.
Can be a little edgy at times, but there’s some good tracks. Classic indie vibe.
At the start, I was like wtaf is this word salad? Is this some bizarre attempt at Burroughs’ cut-up technique? After a few songs I was laughing at some of the turns of phrase. A pleasant surprise.
Very engaging lyrics and music. He has a way of creating very beautiful tunes while also incorporating some anterior instruments like synths. His lyrics and vocals follow a similar path, which is very whimsical and quirky lines but delivered with talent and smooth vocals. This isnt and every day listen, but a casual revisit.
Wow how was this not on my radar… loved this. Like all the good parts of sufjan, Andrew Bird and Father John Misty with a David lynch sense of humor. Definitely going into the rotation.
Never heard of this guy. Like a lugubrious Nilsson and They Might Be Giants mixed together. The voice suits the songs and the production is nicely lush. I like it.
Never heard of this, this guy is great. kind of reminds me of a more approachable Jens Lekman or a less pretentious Father John Misty.
Excellent song writing all around. Completely pulled me in. Horrible album cover though.
Had no expectation of this album as never heard of the artist and was very pleased with the listen . Big lover of electronic music and this album pushed the boundaries with some cool songs .
Listens: 3 Standout Tracks: Marz, Where Dreams Go To Die, Jesus Hates Faggots Boy was this a weird one, from the music to the subject matter, to the themes... there's a lot going on. I liked it. I don't know if its going to enter my album rotation, but it will definitely be added to my library. It was interesting and memorable enough to think about. I don't know what to make of Marz, but it evokes a certain hometown, southern, middle America vibe - specific lyrics - Football, Henry ford, rootbeer, sweet sixteen, butterscotch - and this is juxaposed with like... desserts? flavor pairings? Not to mention Marz could be short for Marzipan, which is a dessert. And then you have the absolutely devastating Where Dreams Go To Die - a person so infatuated with their partner, and their partner is just not giving anything back - an emotional black hole. The person regrets the relationship because its just not emotionally fulfilling. The hits keep on coming. A song about John feeling sensations Sigourney Weaver felt as Ripley in the movie Alien. And also Winona Ryder. Chicken Bones is borderline nonsensical. Silver Platter Club is a tongue-in-cheek "apology" about a person not being born "adequate" at "normal" things like sports, physicalities, being a jock, etc. And then probably the most bold song on the album is Jesus Hates Faggots. Wow. Just Wow. Talk about a scathing criticism of pervasive homophobic tendencies found in a certain population of politically-aligned individuals, but its not just a criticism of homosexuality, its a criticism of ALL of the close-minded, ass-backwards opinions a significant portion of the world population seems to have - and this came out in 2010. A good 15 years later and this is still as pertinent as ever. 4.5
I liked some of these tracks for being goofy and the nice instrumentation. Can’t stand that album cover, though.
He’s kind if like a twisted funhouse mirror Elton John. The first time I ever heard him was when I saw him open for The Pixies I believe not long after this record came out, and he was an impressive performer. These songs are dark in a wistfully sardonic way. They’re excellent but I can only listen to them in a very particular mood.
This album was a pleasant surprise. Wasn’t previously familiar with the artist or his former band, but appreciated the style, voice, and lyrics throughout. This was a great find and one I look forward to learning more about and listening to again.
only listened to first couple songs but they were beautiful.
9/10
Aldrig hört talas om. Tydligen var Midlake något spännande för 15 år sen, missade dem också. The Czars - inte en susning! Obildad tydligen. Hursom var detta en ny spännande bekantskap - som ett kärleksbarn mellan Paul Simon, Paul McCartney och Susan Vega. Fast med mycket sämre texter tyvärr. Arren (med massa märkliga blåsar) drar upp betyget, men texterna drar ner det. Slutar med en stark fyra.
This is one of those albums I feel like I'd have to listen to a lot more to figure out how I really feel. There are parts that jumped out as something I'd really love. And others that might bore me over time. But on a first listen, I liked it.
Really enjoyed this
Kind of loved the angry rant lyrics. Enjoyed the music and piano as well. It was pretty different which is nice, will keep him in mind for when the normal rotation starts to feel dull. Stand out songs: Chicken Bones Outer Space Jesus Hates Faggots - (Fantastic!) Queen of Denmark
I thought this album was great. Loved the lyrics. Sigourney weaver was wonderful
This album is incredibly well written and executed. One of the rare instances in which I felt like I really understood who the artist was, and what chapter of life he was in during the making of the album. It, admittedly, took a few listens to grow on me. Folk is not one of my preferred genres, but this felt different from other folk albums I've listened to. There's a charm to it I really enjoyed. Not all the songs are absolute bangers, and it was a bit lengthy, but I relatively enjoyed the listening experience.
Need to listen more.
One reviewer called it "Bo Burnham meets Dark Side of the Moon". While yes, the comparisons to Bo's moody & dark songwriting style are certainly appropriate, the instrumentation doesn't hold a candle to DSotM. That said, the vocals on this thing are poignant and beautiful. I was ready to shrug it off as another dreck-filled soft rock album, but was pleasantly surprised to find an unexpected level of depth on display.
Father John Misty
liked it
I really enjoyed some of the songs on this, I'd like a closer listen! It was a refreshing mix of styles, which meant some were less my thing, but it was cool.
I really don't know what to want from this world
The subject matter is incredibly meaningful, but John Grant's singing style is one that I need to take in small doses. Good album, difficult to get through in a single listening session. Ideally I'd mix this into a playlist.
Meloncholic, feels very personal. John Grant has an interesting story, he is a dual US and Icelandic citizen. Raised in a conservative Christian house in the Midwest, he discovered he was gay from a young age. Had a bad relationship with his parents, his mother called him a disappointment on her deathbed. I liked the album, it has a lot of feeling to it and you can tell Grant is drawing on some pretty deep personal experiences. Not a fun listen but a somber one. I enjoyed his vocals and the simple instrumentals. Standouts: Marz, Sigourney Weaver, Chicken Bones, Jesus Hates Faggots, Queen of Denmark Rating: 3.8/5
The Queen Of Denmark was actually Len’s wife for 3 years. Or at least that’s what she’d told him. She was actually just a prostitute from Luxembourg! Len still married her! 4.1 2/16 Marz
A surprisingly unique listen that reminds me of David Gilmour and Peter Sinfield. Yes, the lyrics are overtly direct but I'm sure that's the point and, for the most part, it works. Side note. I think more people should sing about Sigourney Weaver.
I like this. And I'm pretty shocked I've never heard of him before..he's a gay father John Misty it seems? With some beck thrown in? Its very good, but his sort of aloof delivery which works to a devastating affect with father John Misty doesn't quite hot which is wild because I think John Grant actually has experience and has more to be devastated by. I am interested to hear his other albums now and see where he went with this.
Clever, idiosyncratic lyrics caught my attention after the first track initially sounded none too promising.
Ett riktigt fynd, jag gillar både John Grant och Midlake men har nog inte lyssnat på detta album i sin helhet. Kan vara en 5s, hann bara en lyssning
Interesting one here. Some really great songs, but some pretty bad ones too. Ultimately, I think I liked it, though.
Alternative rocker John Grant of Czar fame going solo with a folk band was the best thing that he ever did. Marz song is beautiful and melancholic and one of the best in the album with lyrics naming most of the candies globally . Sigourney Weaver is also an amazing song with absolutely fantastic and creative lyrics for one of these dayz when you feel weird in this world. It's easier it's also an amazing track talking to an ex lover with warmth and hope. Outer space is also a dreamy song (that i loved) when you feel you don't belong somewhere in this world. Caramel starts off well with piano and when ''my love'' lyrics begin got me instantly.He says his love is like a caramel and we melt along.This guy is obsessed with sweets in the whole album,titles and lyrics. In Leopard and lamb the violin is out of this world. ''I want to change the world but i can't change my underwear'',that's how Queen of Denmark opens..It really shows the self wondering character of the whole album and the self mocking lyrics as well. Nice alternative change with Supernatural Defibrillator. Last song What Time? has dramatic el.guitar stabs,echoes of random hours repeating and fx ending acoustically making it the best outro for this album.
Wasn't too sure what to expect with this. Ended up being a folky, piano heavy pop album with a few synths thrown in. Opened very strongly with the first four tracks all being excellent, then went on to a bit of a dip until Jesus Hates Faggots, which picks it right back up. Really enjoyable album with some interesting ideas, lyrics, chord progressions and arrangements. Will listen again.
Aujourd'hui, on s'attaque à un monument, une pépite sortie de nulle part qui a secoué le cocotier de la pop indé en 2010 : "Queen of Denmark" de John Grant. Autant vous le dire tout de suite, cet album, c'est un peu le grand huit émotionnel, une sorte de confession impudique et magnifique qui vous prend aux tripes pour ne plus vous lâcher. Avant de plonger dans le vif du sujet, un petit mot sur le bonhomme. John Grant, pour ceux qui l'ignoreraient, c'est l'ancien leader de The Czars, un groupe américain qui, malgré un talent certain, n'a jamais vraiment réussi à percer. Après la séparation du groupe en 2004, Grant a connu une longue traversée du désert, noyant son chagrin et ses démons dans l'alcool et la drogue. C'est là que l'histoire prend une tournure inattendue. Les membres du groupe Midlake, fans de la première heure de The Czars, l'invitent à venir enregistrer dans leur studio au Texas. De cette collaboration inespérée va naître "Queen of Denmark", un disque d'une sincérité désarmante, où Grant met à nu ses angoisses, ses amours déçues, et sa vision d'une Amérique à la fois fascinante et terrifiante. Dès les premières notes de "TC and Honeybear", on est happé par la voix de baryton de John Grant, chaude et profonde, qui nous conte une histoire d'amour avec une tendresse infinie. Le ton est donné : on est dans l'intime, le personnel, le vécu. Mais ne vous y trompez pas, cet album est loin d'être un disque de pleurnicheries. Car l'humour, souvent noir et grinçant, n'est jamais loin. Prenez "Marz", par exemple, une ballade au piano d'une beauté classique sur laquelle Grant égrène une liste de sucreries et de souvenirs d'enfance avec une naïveté feinte, créant un décalage savoureux. Et que dire de "Jesus Hates Faggots" ? Le titre à lui seul annonce la couleur. Avec une ironie mordante, Grant dénonce l'hypocrisie et l'homophobie d'une certaine Amérique bien-pensante. C'est cru, c'est direct, et ça fait un bien fou. On sent le vécu, la souffrance d'un homme qui a dû se construire en marge, dans un environnement hostile. Moi qui ai grandi dans les années 70 et 80, à une époque où l'homosexualité était encore un tabou, ce genre de texte résonne forcément d'une manière particulière. Musicalement, "Queen of Denmark" est un écrin somptueux pour les textes de Grant. L'influence de Midlake est palpable, avec ces arrangements folk-rock classieux, ces pianos mélancoliques et ces envolées de flûte. On pense parfois à Dennis Wilson, à Harry Nilsson, à toute cette pop californienne des années 70, à la fois sophistiquée et mélancolique. Mais Grant ne se contente pas de copier ses aînés, il insuffle à sa musique une modernité et une singularité qui n'appartiennent qu'à lui. Des titres comme "Caramel", avec ses nappes de synthétiseur cosmiques, ou "Silver Platter Club", avec son ambiance de cabaret déglingué, en sont la preuve éclatante. Et puis, il y a le morceau-titre, "Queen of Denmark", qui clôt l'album en apothéose. C'est une explosion de rage et de frustration, une lettre de rupture d'une violence inouïe, où Grant règle ses comptes avec un ancien amant. Les mots sont d'une crudité rare, et la musique, passant d'une ballade au piano à un déchaînement de guitares électriques, épouse parfaitement les montagnes russes émotionnelles du texte. C'est le genre de morceau qui vous laisse exsangue, sonné, mais avec le sentiment d'avoir assisté à quelque chose d'unique. Alors, pourquoi seulement 4 sur 5, me direz-vous ? Peut-être à cause d'une petite baisse de régime en milieu d'album, avec quelques titres un peu moins marquants. Mais ne boudons pas notre plaisir, "Queen of Denmark" reste un disque majeur de ces vingt dernières années. Un album qui sait allier la beauté formelle à la profondeur des émotions. C'est un disque qui fait mal, qui fait rire, qui fait réfléchir. Un disque qui, une fois que vous l'aurez écouté, ne vous quittera plus jamais vraiment. Moi, le vieux disquaire qui a vu défiler des milliers d'albums entre ses mains, je peux vous l'assurer : des disques de cette trempe, on n'en croise pas tous les jours. Alors, si vous ne l'avez pas encore fait, foncez ! Vous m'en direz des nouvelles. Et pour les autres, eh bien, vous savez ce qu'il vous reste à faire : le remettre sur la platine, et vous laisser emporter une nouvelle fois par la beauté vénéneuse de ce chef-d'oeuvre.
Never heard of John Grant before today. I really like the writing of the lyrics and I never pay attention to the lyrics. Really good album. Looking forward to listening to more of his albums.
Excellent listen.
Really enjoyed this.
Quite nice
Had no idea what to expect going into this. At the start I was worried. TC & Honeybear was pretty meh. But then Marz hit, that one was pretty interesting. Had a bunch of random word lines, reminded me of We Didn't Start The Fire, and it had some great music. Where The Dreams Go To Die had a sweet sad sound. Sigourney Weaver was hilarious, and Chicken Bones is hilariously angsty. Silver Platter Club was funny, Outer Space was nice and chill. JC Hates Faggots was a nice lampooning of homophobes and racists, and Queen Of Denmark ended it nicely. Most songs are 3s, but the total package pushes up to a 4. Best song: Chicken Bones
Full of beautiful songs and melodies. Lirically, you can hear that Grant was describing some of his personal demons and the result is truly good. He is a poet! However, a lot of the songs are ballads that can start to sound like one another and in the end the length of the album makes it overstay its welcome. If there was a bit more variety it would've been a 4-4.5 star album. As it is it's a 3.5/5
i really had never heard of this album but i really enjoyed it.. it was so nice!! awesome!
Really great! Reminds me of Father John Misty (yes, I know this came first!)
Albums like this is why I love this list! Never heard of this guy before but now I'll definitely be checking out more from him
Kind of amazing?
Pleasantly surprised by this one. Not my typical jam, but was pretty catchy.
High 3, grew on me as it went
Still good but didn't like it quite as much as I remember. Forgot about that weird fake German techno song and hated the Rocky Horror-esque one
75/100. John Grant, with a voice full of sorrow and sardonic wit, crafts songs that are deeply personal and often painfully direct. Musically, the album is rich with thoughtful arrangements, piano-led ballads, orchestral touches, and a warm, vintage folk-rock backdrop.
John Grant is absolutely incredible. Baroque pop at it's best. Filled with wit, charm and self-deprecation.
I liked this much better than I expected after reading the description. Good variety of music here.
Cool
Not a strong start for me, but the music did grow on me as the album continued. There was a lot of push and pull in terms of me not liking/liking the sounds I heard throughout, but overall this was a solid album.
Never heard of this album or artist but enjoyed it! Wild lyrics
Now that’s what I call an album of lyrics
What an amazing exploration of gender, sexuality, and complete rejection of toxic masculinity, and traditional masculinity in general. I love how he presents these themes in such crude and blunt ways, which only makes it all that much more impactful that he's saying what everyone is thinking but too afraid to say out loud. There's a really good balance of being funny, but also profound and serious when he needs to be. I think that the actual music is nothing all that special, but the lyrics alone are still enough to make this a brilliant album.
American 2000s folk pop. Nice and relaxing, fun lyrics.
Loved the relaxed vibe and creative lyrics. Grant's voice is easy to listen too. After listening to the album I gave a listen to Tom Rush; for some reason Grant reminded me of him. But alas Grant is Very different than Rush. Enjoyed the album and I will probably return to it.
I enjoyed this more than I expected. I've never heard of any of the people involved with this album, much less the album itself.
Come for the great songwriting, but stay for the perfect lyricism - the absolute main character of Queen Of Denmark. John Grant took a break from music and somehow emerged as one of the greatest modern lyricists, confronting his own past and hardships in a beautiful manner. The middle section, beginning with “Chicken Bones”, is not as good as the strong opening and closing ultimately keeping this from being a 5 to me. Please don’t rob yourself the pleasure of listening to Grant’s later albums.
passionate. dreamy. strangely feels like something that would come out half a century ago? the kind of music that makes you feel a little sick too. i've never heard of this guy till now, and this debut album is promising. this album is mostly composed of life experiences paired with blunt and dark humor. it's a little vulgar, it's a little kitschy, it's all over the place. it's the kind of album for people that feel like life is indescribable and it sucks, but... eh. you shrug. whatcha gonna do about it?
After the breakup of Czar, John Grant makes a solid rock album. 7/10
Not really into this style but I do think this one is pretty good Will I listen to again: 50%
Due to the music, and singing, this album is already mid at best, however, the odd, and ironic lyrics made this experience enjoyable(the closing track, fittingly enough, sounds like a Queen song). Favorite Track: "Queen Of Denmark".
i really liked the review that called this "Bo Burnham meets Dark side of the moon" - i'm not sure if i quite liked it as much as i like bo burnham's material, but there's a sense of humor in the introspection here. an interesting album i can guarantee you i'd never have listened to without this website!
well, this was a cool hidden gem that i likely never would've discovered outside of this list! the songs are varied and i particularly enjoyed the lyrics for many of them. definitely going to be listening to a few of these in the future. favorites: tc & honeybear, marz, where the dreams go to die, outer space, jc hates faggots
I was immediately captivated by this album. I enjoyed the ethereal music and the lyrics – it felt as if David Bowie, Elton John, and Bon Iver all came together in a lush recording session.
Very unusual lyrics
This album hit me at a strange time, and I think that’s part of why it stuck. I remember putting it on without much expectation, and suddenly this voice just floored me — warm, broken, funny, bitter, vulnerable. It felt like someone had taken a scalpel to their own emotional history and decided to sing about it without flinching. There’s humour in the lyrics, sure, but it’s the kind of humour that hides in dark corners and mutters insults when no one’s looking. I really like that. It’s not often you find a record that manages to sound beautiful and cutting at the same time, but this one pulls it off. I was drawn in by the softness at first — those piano melodies and warm arrangements courtesy of Midlake make everything feel gentle — but then the words start sinking in and you realise it’s not gentle at all. JC Hates Faggots and Where Dreams Go to Die hit like a punch to the gut. For me, Sigourney Weaver is the real gem though. There’s something about the imagery, the campy defiance, and that soaring chorus that just does it for me. It makes pain sound glamorous and weird and oddly comforting. I think what I admire most about this album is how honest it feels without being desperate for attention. John Grant doesn’t dress things up unless it helps him get closer to the point. And even when he’s singing about total humiliation or loneliness, there’s strength in it. I come back to this album when I want to feel less alone in how absurd and exhausting life can be. It’s one of those records that seems to hold you by the shoulders and say, "Yeah, me too."
Strange, but good. Lyrics are batshit crazy sometimes but you always get what he's trying to say.
Really interesting production.
Not really my thing, but not bad either. It’s distinctive.
Really great music and voice, though felt a bit wordy at times
Like this a bunch, there’s something about the simple lyricism and serious material that drew me in as well as the mood
This feels like The Beatles meets Bo Burnham meets Presidents of the USA meets ???. Interesting and fascinating and varied - each song felt different. I really liked it. Rating 4
Really cool, under the radar album.
Damn near a 5, especially as I listened for a second time and started to connect more with some of the nuances of this album, such as unique lyrics, but vocally and melodically it also was surprising as I added several songs to my library. Songs that were added were still listenable.
I feel like I need to a few more listens to fully absorb the lyrics because the themes of each song are all over the place, but musically this album is fantastic. Weirdly reminds me of Bo Burnham without it being overtly obvious that it's a comedic album. There are obviously signs of satire littered throughout this album, but there also seems to be a more serious/deeper message underlying the wackiness of it all. Marz, Sigourney Weaver, Chicken Bones, and Jesus Hates F****** (JHF might have the most variety of old school slurs I've ever heard in a song) are examples of this. I particularly think the chorus of Chicken Bones is catchy and fun. I also found myself liking the songs that were piano heavy the most like Marz, Silver Platter Club, Caramel, and Leopard and Lamb. The title track ends the album on a truly thematic note. Pretty fun/unique album and very quirky in a good way. I found it really captivating, entertaining, and it left me wanting to listen to it more intently. I would put at a mid-4 but feel like I can get to a High 4 with more listens. I think it might be a tad too unserious to reach 5 status.
A few songs in I'm really enjoying this. Tonally this has a lot of similarity to Father John Misty; it is equally melancholy in tone and cinematic in character. I keep saying cinematic, but I feel like that isn't capturing what I mean. I guess to expand, both this and FJM have a sort of theatrical element to their compositions both in the arrangement and mixing that use extensive orchestral fluorishes and a sort of elevated vocal mixing often with harmonization that feels very polished and grand. Like something fit for a stage show. In general I enjoy the songs, but it certainly has a pretentious air about it that I cannot shake. All that said, this was an enjoyable enough listen. It runs together a bit, but there were a few songs that specifically stood out for me. Marz is a pretty orchestral one that actually reminds me vaguely of a Porcupine Tree song. Chicken Bones is goofy, but supremely enjoyable with an extremely catchy chorus. Silver Platter Club cribs off the goofiness of Chicken bones and leans into a quirky polka-plonk with surprising aplomb. Outer Space plays a bit like a poor man's Elton John; even so, I love the keystrokes and airiness even if it does get a bit sleepy. JC Hates Faggots (obviously tongue in cheek) is one of the more upbeat songs here featuring a guitar line reminiscent of Brian May with some skittering electro effects. Enjoyable in a general sense, but not something I would go in for a ton of repeated listens. Going with a soft 4 here.
Pretty solid soft rock. I really enjoyed Outer Space and Jesus Hates Faggots. JHF was certainly one of the blunt, in your face type songs that I think a lot of people need to listen to in their lives. Really enjoyed the back half of this a lot, and the first half wasn't bad either. Seems to be a lot of introspection on how terrible life was growing up and how backwards his parents and friends beliefs were/are.
This first song is awfully pretty. Especially when the flute comes in. This album is so weird and unique. I can't even really tell if I like it but it definitely has me captivated.
John Grant's debut solo album is one of the best albums of the last years.
This was precent decent!
Dark and strange lyrics, brilliant songwriting and sublime playing from Midlake make this a glorious debut solo album.
Прогрессив-поп, фолк. битловские мотивы. Слушал с удовольствием.
The way this started out I did not expect to enjoy it. The first two songs are not great, but it gets way better after that. The rest of the album is surprising and funny and just a good time. Pleasantly surprised by this.
This was a really great record. Started off a bit slow but as we hit the midway point I found myself looking up lyrics, adding songs to playlists and repeating tracks. Really enjoyed it, interesting lyrics, nice melodies, great mix of instruments. Quality stuff - loved it.
Pretty good overall. This album is teetering on the edge between 3 and 4 stars for me. Whom amongst us hasn’t felt like Sigourney Weaver?
Holy shit. I just watched Aliens LAST NIGHT. I liked the a lot. I’m not familiar with the artist at all, but would listen to more.
Had no idea who this guy was but this is clearly my jam ! I really enjoyed this record. The sad songs hit hard and the general feel of it is really nice. 8,5/10 fav song : Where the Dreams go to Die & Silver Platter Club
There's not a large variation musically, but that's fine: the music is good but the star here is the often ironic lyrics juxtaposed with the dreamy and soft music. This album helped me realize John Grant is the GMF and that I could be laughing 65% more of the time.
Literally never heard of this guy before. Interesting pick for the year 2010. But it is quite good, I'm glad I discovered it. 3.5/5
If ever an album cover didn’t match my expectation!!! Weirdly wonderful, a little poppy / Bowiesq!!
Count this among my most surprising hits in the collection. The jokes here pretty much all land for me, which usually doesn't happen for me in serious music. Very good album
Powerful and unique
A real collage of an album. Mainly soft slow rock, kinda 70s psychedelic style, Queen style guitar solos in Sigourney Weaver Semi-nonsense lyrics Also reminds me of softer Opeth parts Synthy bits That's the Good News is a Kraftwerk homage and fun Best track - Marz or Chicken Bones 4 stars
It's a great combo of weird, catchy and relatable. It's got some Bowie, Pink Floyd and Bo Burnham vibes, with some out there influences that make it hard to tell how serious it is.
At first I thought it would be another sad indie album. But I was surprised. It's a very sentimental album, everything that is being said, both in the lyrics and in the harmonies, rings very true. It was a pleasant surprise. 4 stars.
I wasn’t fussed on the last couple of songs but until that it was brilliant. Will be checking out more of his work.
streak de século 21 hein eh bacaninha até. achei que ia odiar, mas achei 100% escutável. não sei se vou voltar nele, mas foi uma descoberta amigável!!
Ovo mi je čak bolje od kasnijih, ekscentričnijih albuma, čudno!
Absolutely tremendous. Apart from the dabble in Krautrock, that was shite.
One first listen, I’m not sure I fully understand this album. There were some tracks I ireally enjoyed (Sigourney Weaver, Chicken Bones, Silver Platter Club, Queen of Denmark) and some tracks that I just don’t get (Marz). On second listen, this album makes me think of a mash-up between Father John Misty and the latest Viagra Boys album, viagr aboys, that I’ve had on repeat for a few days. I don’t know, some days is just chicken bones
I went in with low expectations and came out floored by John Grant’s honesty, wit, and the sheer variety of styles he pulls off. The album walks a fine line between emotional devastation and sharp, often hilarious storytelling — and it does so with grace. The lyrics are eclectic, deeply personal, and at times completely unfiltered, bringing to mind the fearless songwriting of Sufjan Stevens. Nowhere is that more clear than on “Sigourney Weaver,” a surreal, oddly touching track that blends sci-fi and self-doubt with ease. “Where Dreams Go to Die” is heartbreaking and cinematic, “Jesus Hates Faggots” is gut-punch blunt in the best way, and the title track, “Queen of Denmark,” is a towering, sarcastic anthem of rejection and defiance. The album’s genre-hopping — from lush ballads to synthy weirdness — might not be for everyone, but it works. Grant’s voice, both literal and lyrical, holds it all together. This is one of those records that earns your attention and rewards it over time.
Dramatískt píanóglamur. Er mjög hrifinn.
This was great. I wasn’t all that impressed at first, but once I started really paying attention to the lyrics I realized just how deep, profound, and even funny this album can be. This is one where I actually do see what all the fuss is about.
I don't know how I missed this album when it came out. It sounds really good. This is my vibe. I'll be coming back to this. Not music you play for other people but good solo time music.
I really like this
I thought Grant's voice and the arrangements were great, and the lyrics had a They Might Be Giants kind of quality to them in a lot of cases. I feel like using several different slurs in a song is definitely a risk, and the point was pretty much well made before that line in the song, so it seemed a little needless. That said, I enjoyed the rest of this album a lot more than I was expecting. Grant really nails down the feelings of anxiety and low self esteem that come from shitty parenting in the midwest, and he makes those feelings very listenable in a charming way.
First artist i was absolutely unable to situate in a scene or context I'd heard of! Turns out he's doing a blend of Jens Lekman and Smog, with maybe some Randy Newman and John Cale on the side--a delicious surprise.
I don't know what to make of this, but I like it. Queen Of Denmark by John Grant is one of those albums that sneaks in and makes you listen and experience it. Isn't that what the point of this list is? 4/5
ich finds mega schön! mega schöni, nöd sehr komplexi aber absoluti wohlfühl-harmonie. sehr unterhaltsam au, d synthie-kläng in jc hates faggots sind mega ähnlich wie bi l‘imperatrice, s autotune i dem song isch au iwie no geil und de text isch hilarious. und im song queen of denmark findi so lustig, dasses sone eifachi, schöni 1-4-5-1 harmoniefolg am klavier isch wo mega hässigi lyrics drübergleit werded und denn chunnt en hässigere teil mit schlagzüg, bass, e-gitarre etc. aber d harmonie sind no genau di gliiche. und omg hahahah di dütsche lyrics und denglischi ussprach im that‘s the good news sind absolut hilarious. es foifi gits aber scho nöd, am afang z wenig komplex, und es paar songs, v.a. geg endi, sind schochli müll.
piano/lyrics based but pretty good
Bit samey...but Nice voice
I really liked this. There's a dark, haunting quality to the music, and the lyrics through most of the album were cracking me up. 4.25/5
it is quite surprising that this is a relatively new album, many songs remind me of those 60s or 70s music, in a good way of course. Music is very beautiful and calm, perfect to enjoy in a cool sunny day by yourself. 3.5-4/5
My family and I were on vacation. My mom and I went to this restaurant that had these huge plates of food but everything it was my turn they'd be out of food. They had a jukebox and the volume could be turned up so loud it could be heard from across town, which I did and it made people mad. I walked down a long stretch of road listening to the music. There was a brief thing with my mother but I don't remember. My sister and I kept walking until I met up with Eric and then we met up with Dennis and Bethany. There were hugs bc I have not seen them in a long time and everything seemed tender. I wish I could remember the words. I was offering to buy their house but I was still trying to keep them close There was some weird shiy peppered in throughout with my family and babies and pets. Too hard to describe.
It sounds to me that the vocals were double tracked, which is what I am most drawn to.
I don't know if I've already listened to this album & forgot to rate it (since I'm playing catch up) or if I'm actually familiar with some of the songs. Either way, I enjoyed the album and will look up more of his stuff.
I’m going to tell my kids this was father John misty. But seriously this was really solid.
Weird, but cool - very oddball. Enjoyed this very much - laughed out loud multiple times with the clever humour of the writing while listening to it.
8/10. The storytelling in this album is really nice. As an LGBTQ+ individual, it is really interesting hearing what John Grant has to say.
I've never heared of this guy before. The album starts very calm but then holds enough tension to keep it interesting. And the more I get into this album the more I hear reminiscences to other artists (Beatles, Bowie, Stevens...?) Neither an outstanding nor a bad song on. So it's hard for me to decide between three and four stars. 3,5
Surprising. Not at all what I was expecting based on the album artwork. This is more tongue in cheek, almost novelty, songs. But I enjoyed a lot of it. The backing music is layered and textured that makes it far more interesting. Lyrics can be funny, but are often inconsequential.
4.5 actually
I wanted to change the world But I could not even change my underwear
didn't know what to expect from this one but was pleasantly surprised! the album reminds me a lot of what father john misty would put out after. fairly compelling and interesting and pleasant to listen to. if i had a nickel for every instance of a slur during this project, i would have many many nickels, but there's one song on here that contributes a lot to that total (although i understand it's aimed at the sort of people who would use the slurs, but hey, they're still there).
Warm and witty and vintage-sounding – like early-'70s soft-rock vintage. Only jokes about actresses give away the era. What it lacks in groundbreaking sounds or innovation, it makes up with clear and effective execution.
Some funny social commentary in put in a very listenable medium.
This is surprisingly good and entertaining. Sent me on a deeper dive on him and his music.
Man, how to review this one? Melodically beautiful, lyrically frustrating, inconsistent in instrumentation but overall something I really liked?
Album 692 of 1001 John Grant - Queen Of Denmark (2010) Rating : 3.5 / 5 Nice album from an artist I had never heard of. Full of deeply personal and soul-searching lyrics (some a little odd). Some nice arrangements and a cool baritone voice from Grant. Themes of impossible love, near-suicide, and redemption
3 tracks in I thought we were on for 5 ⭐️ with this album But then it went on too long and ran out of ideas Call it a 4 with a very strong start
Got my ears professionally checked to make sure I correctly heard a white male drop the hard r in a 21st century track. And to think I wanted to drop a 5 too!
A mix of serious, goofy, haunting, and simple, I was pleasantly surprised. The no-no words were in context of a buildup in the song, so I don't take major offense to them. Another great reason to have joined the generator.
Weird and cool
Bit of a strange one, but good. Definitely dips into the preachy side, for better or for worse. Liked it.
The music is 3 stars but the creativity of. the lyrics are 5 stars. Altogether the album is 4 stars or B+ for me.
What in the Buffalo Bill is going on with the cover? That should have been my first of many obvious clues this would be a weird album. Until I got to "Sigourney Weaver" I didn't catch on that it was supposed to be intentionally silly. During Marz I only thought of Casey and his Brother from the Tim and Eric sketches thinking this was a serious attempt failing so bad it was funny. For all I know it still could be that too I suppose. As the comedy and sarcasm really got going I started to enjoy this quite a bit. I am a big deadpan guy and once the piano really gets in to that slow rhythm it becomes a mashup of Bo Bournham and Puddles Pity Party and I'm here for that. Although I think this album my predate both of them. It's really hard to tell with time anymore. 2010 feels just as far away as 2019. For an album I thought started off hilariously bad actually ended up being just plain funny. The Jesus track was a bit of a problem with the F word, but The message is good overall. Favorite track "It's easier" just rings true at the mot, but any from the middle could be here.
Well, we have another weird and wonderful album with Queen Of Denmark. Initially i made an incredibly wrong first assumption about this album and that is that it would be a generic pop folk album which doesn't do a whole lot to stand out from the crowd but i was so very wrong. This album does so much wacky stuff to make it all it's own. Everything from the odd electronic sounds, the wonderful piano playing, the sudden bits of a guitar, and the weird and somewhat offensive lyrics were all odd inclusions which ended up really adding to the album (Okay, maybe the piano wasn't that odd but i don't care). This album was an incredibly nice surprise. Best Song: Silver Platter Club Worst Song: Tc & Honeybear
What a great album - sad, vulnerable, sweet. John Grant unveils his soul here, song by song. It is an album I’m going to listen to recurrently.
I enjoyed
an incredibly pleasant surprise. lush and chill at the same time.
En hel del Father John Misty över detta tycker jag. Det är bra! Lite ojämnt kanske men överlag väldigt kul lyssning tycker jag. Diggar ordentligt till Chicken Bones och blir märkligt rörd av Marz. Precis som med Father John Misty tror jag texterna tåls att förkovra sig i ordentligt vilket jag inte har tid till nu men kommer definitivt lyssna mer på detta! 4/5 med klarhet!
Väldigt trevligt album! Hört ett antal låtar förut, men inte lyssnat på albumet.
There's 2 albums in here. A great and beautiful singer-songwriter album and a more joke-ish upbeat, almost dance album. Some songs combine both sides better than others. I love the darker and more serious songs on here, the choir in the opening track is beautiful and John has a wonderful voice that sounds flawless on here. Songs like jc hates faggots manage to straddle the line between humor and heavy subject matter really well. Songs like supernatural defibrilator really ruin the vibe and atmosphere of the album for me though. Could've been 5 stars without those songs, taking into account the runtime of the album, but alas.
synthy as hell, really great lyrics, and just balls to the wall weird. But weird in a way that kept me interested. I dont know if I'll ever listen to any of this again, but its definitely one of those entries that made me glad to try this list.
FJM but less abstract and sterile. Loved some of the punchy lyrics e.g. "pop and rocks and cyanide". Also enjoyed thinking about the way it processes anger and how it interacts with gender
Never heard of this guy, he seemed alright
Close to a 5 here. One of the best hidden gems on this list
Longer album, which I'm usually not a fan of, but the production is exquisite, John has an impactful voice, and the lyrics are a blend of emotional and funny
Cool vibe. I like it a lot.
Gives Harry Nilsson vibes.
I've met some very, very weird people in my musical career. I think being a musician tends to attract them, even more so than other vocations that also attract weirdos like morticians and congressman. But for every legitimate freakshow weirdo like Beck, who's actually just an extremely strange person, there's a half-dozen guys who think that affecting a persona of extreme weirdness is good for their cachet. I kind of suspect this guy might be the latter. I'd never heard of him before (and I was following music closely when this came out), so I read his bio. Then I listened to some stuff from his first band. Those songs all have pretty staid lyrics, certainly nothing even remotely close to the exquisitely crafted strangeness of "Marz" or "Sigourney Weaver" (with emphasis on "crafted"). But whatever, I actually don't give a rat's ass about lyrics and certainly not about whether a guy's a poseur. Many of my favorite bands are poseurs, and in fact my favorite band from this era (Foxy Shazam) the lead guy is posing (fraudulently) as an ambiguously-sexed weirdo. I'm also writing this much about the CD because I like it - if it really sucked, I'd just give it a 1 and move on. It's exquisitely-crafted pop, and the weirdness gives it a real nice twist. Grant himself is a very capable singer. He's got kind of a low, limited range, although there's moments he soars - the vault to an upper register on "Jesus Hates Faggots", perhaps the most deeply personal track, and then into falsetto on the chorus, is the best example. Even in his lower register he has an extremely expressive tone, for example on the chorus of "Where Dreams Go To Die" his voice is butter-smooth. But the real strengths are the production and the instrumentation. Grant uses basically every trick in the book here, and it's brilliantly crafted. It's really got everything - operatic backing vocals, strings, horns on "Silver Platter Club", cool synth, and just enough hard-rock touches to keep it interesting. I just love his melodies too, this CD is brilliant pop songwriting. I considered giving it a five, but it's a little long on ballads, many of which (beneath the surface) have a very similar feel to them. I get the subject matter is sad, but if it were a little more balance on up- and down-tempo, a little more lively, I'd give it a 5.
4/5 I very much enjoyed this album when it came out but I preferred the next album Pale Green Ghosts
I hadn't heard of John Grant or his previous band, The Czars, before, but it's a great find. Members of the band Midlake supported this album in more ways than one, contributing to the music, but also by bringing Grant out of his early retirement from music. The music is both dreamy and dreadful, representing Grant's soul and struggles of his youth as a young gay man in a community that loathed his true identity. As an adult, he seems more self-assured in who is, but also tortured by the formative memories of his youth. The music drifts up into space-faring ballads that could sit alongside the links of 70s singer-songwriters, just as comfortily as it could next to The Flaming Lips. This album has the potential to really grow on me.
Wow, I was wrong about my prediction that this album would suck because I didn't recognize John Grant's name. He has a great voice and is a cleaver lyricist. I thought his soft ballads were really beautiful with well-accompanied piano, flute, and strings. Marz and Where Dreams Go To Die gave me goosebumps. It's Easier, Caramel, and Leopard and Lamb were also very solid. And then he has a bunch of goofy songs with a much different vibe, but they all are clever, made me laugh, and still sounded good. Reminded me a bit of the Presidents of the United States of America. Sigourney Weaver (oh Winona), Chicken Bones, Silver Platter Club, JC Hates Fa***** (brilliant), and the title track (a soaring, smashing closer) are the highlights of this variety. The first and last two in particular - satirical genius. My faith in this list has been restored.
Will listen again.
Nog nooit van gehoord, maar echt wel een goed album! Een beetje Father John Misty achtig. Wijze lyrics ook. Alles klopt: wijze stem, goeie muziek en geweldige teksten. 4.3
That was actually pretty special. Well done.
surprisingly amazing
Deeply personal album covering some pretty nuanced emotions. There are a lot of songs about love & loss, angst and excitement, but anytime an artist lands some of the lesser-explored "in-between-emotions" my ears perk up a bit more. This is going to land harder for those that fall into Grant's more specific demographic of "gay Gen X man raised in the midwest" but he covers enough ground where anyone alienated enough can find a way in. Having been a former record store clerk his music knowledge is clearly dialed in enough to make this record sound fantastic and informed. I'm already a fan of Rufus Wainwright, for instance, and although Grant has his own aesthetics, I found an easy lay of the land pretty quickly, songwriting-wise. Real good album. Will revisit more here and there, including his work with Hercules & Love Affair for more disco stuff.
Smooth and creamy. A little samey at times
This was actually pretty funny. It's rare to find a sense of humor in music like this, so I really appreciate it when someone is able to blend good tunes with witty lyrics. Poetry like no other.
Enjoyable first listen, definitely worth coming back to. Gave me vibes of Father John Misty
Why was I waiting for the opening notes of the first song to turn into "eyes wide open" by Creed? Where dreams go to die is very "across the universe". I didn't know this artist or album and quite enjoyed it, 4*
What an absolutely gorgeous album. In love with it after one spin. Will explore more of thus guy.
I see where Sturgil Simpson gets his inspiration.
I quite liked it. But it did feel a bit long and the album cover irks me. There is also no song that I actively looked up the title to listen to it again, but the total package is nice.
Fastnar omedelbart. Väldigt roligt när det händer. Särskilt när det är en artist jag inte är bekant med. Ändå hänt några gånger nu på denna lista. Man får vada genom medioker musik för att vaska fram godbitarna. Det finna dock ett antal "skoj/ploj"-låtar på skivan. Trots dessa är det en singer/songwriter i min smak. Sen uttalar han Sigourney märkligt. SigÖrny istället för SigÅrny. Men det är förlåtet! Brukar inte störa mig på texterna så mycket. Men här kan de faktiskt sticka ut lite och var töntiga ibland. Bitvis. Men också lite kul ibland. Så det är inte bara dåligt. Jag kommer definitivt lyssna mer på Johan Grant!
Got the lyrics
This is a pleasant surprise. Reminds me of Father John Misty
good folk
The older you get, the less open you become to discovering new artists. Generally, when discovered...I'm okay with that. A lot of new artists just don't appeal to me. While his voice sometimes sounds like Beck to me, the songs are angry in a smooth folksy way. Going to be exploring more of his catalog.
Indie Folk is also in my wheel house apparently... I loved this, so soft and gentle, wrapped up in a blanket with a nice cup of tea.
love love love it
An enjoyable wild ride of an album. Covering folly sounds to electronica and pop and it still kind of makes sense.
this guy is lowkey me asf. like i feel like i should be giving him 5 stars just because we’re kinda the same person highlights: tc & honeybear, where dreams go to die, queen of denmark (jan 22 2025)
Queen of Denmark marks John Grant’s solo debut after his departure from The Czars. As an openly queer artist, Grant brings his personal experiences into his music, exploring deeply emotional and often dark themes. The album melds lush, retro-inspired instrumentation with brutally honest songwriting. It’s a unique mix, and although it probably won't quite become one of my all-time favourites, I can appreciate the craftsmanship and emotional depth. The album’s retro aesthetic is immediately apparent, with soft rock influences, vintage synths, and orchestral arrangements creating a nostalgic soundscape. Grant’s voice, often fragile and rich with emotion, works in perfect harmony with the music’s orchestral touches. Songs like “Marz” and “Leopard & Lamb” are standout moments, balancing the beauty of the melodies with lyrics that tackle themes of self-worth, love, and vulnerability. The contrast between the music’s warmth and the rawness of Grant’s storytelling is part of what makes the album so engaging. However, at over an hour, Queen of Denmark starts to feel a bit overstuffed. While the album's high points are powerful, some tracks like “Silver Platter Club,” “Chicken Bones Outer Space,” and “Fireflies” start to lose momentum, and the pacing slows down significantly. “What Time?” as the closing track is a reflective outro of sorts, but its length feels a bit excessive. The album could have been more concise, which would have strengthened its overall impact. That said, Queen of Denmark still offers a lot. The songwriting is sharp, and Grant’s ability to layer emotional depth with accessible melodies shines through. It may not be an album I reach for all the time, but I respect its ambition and the moments of brilliance it delivers.
Surprising good, didn’t expect it. Why is this the second album recently with a white side spouting the n-word?
Super chill, kind of reminds me of Father John Misty but more tranquil.
this was kinda neat. i wanna say i really liked it, but...it was only kinda neat. i did like 'jesus hates faggots', in the same way i'd like anything that pokes fun at modern christian hypocrisy, and the title track was nice.
Excellent album with a lot of memorable songs. Interesting lyrics ranging with a big range of moods.
Another good one that I was not previously familiar with. I like the snarky vibe that he has. The melodies are interesting. Just a fun album.
It’s rare that such a bizarrely absurd mix of songs comes together as such a beautifully complete package. Some of the lyrics are so nonsensical yet flow together so well, and serious topics like homophobia and other societal issues are addressed in playful or even whimsical ways. Why this hasn’t come across my radar sooner is a mystery to me. It really is a piece of art.
Really great sound. Some clever lyrics but unfortunately I’m listening while working so I’m sure it’s worth really digging into. But overall enjoyed it.
Some honest to god bangers on here, and some genuine chuckles on a couple tracks as well. A lot of it feels like the evil twin of Sufjan Stevens.
Þessi er ljómandi skemmtileg, daðraði við fimmu á köflum en róaðist svo aðeins. Mæli þó absólút með.
Wow. This was an experience. I don't think I'll listen again but it wasn't bad at all.
I’m only familiar with later records from John Grant, mainly Pale Green Ghosts Boy from Michigan which were both excellent. I dont know why but I assumed this wouldn’t be very good. But you don’t get on Bella Union being dull, and this is anything but. The first 3 songs in particular are one of the strongest album introductions I’ve heard. And the whole record is great for the majority, although my only gripe is it could do with a few being trimmed. It’s quite long and there’s a couple of filler tracks, BUT as with his other records I’m certain with time these will end up sounding class. He’s one hell of a songwriter and storyteller. Going to be returning to this a lot I think. 4 for now, could well end up being a 5
Bit long, but very entertaining and surprising. Such a wide use of instruments and styles. Reminds me of a more unhinged Sufjan Stevens (with a stronger voice) and Rufus Wainwright with the lyrics. TC & Honeybear, Where The Dreams Go To Die, JC Hates Faggots and That's The Good News were the standouts. The Sigourney Weaver song was bizarre. From the album cover, I expected something a lot more mellow - parts of the album are bananas. It is long and could do with a trim, hence the 4 stars. Really good though.
A real hop across styles and genre here, for someone I'd only heard of but never heard previously. He should get a more interesting name, because I think I thought he was going to be the other one, who sings songs from musicals and is a general irritant. He has mad fans. Josh Groban! To be fair, I don't actually know what Groban does either. All of this was a good lesson in opening your mind, because you might just get to hear John Grant.
I've never heard of this guy. I really need to listen to this again when I can focus on the lyrics b/c what I was able to catch while I was working/half listening are gold. 3.5 rounding up
A really good album, with only the bonus tracks falling short of virtually perfect. Marz is a particular highlight, but the flawless vocals lift even more mundane songs into the stratosphere
Absolute fantastic album from someone I've never heard of before. I'm so happy I discovered this album and this artist. Will definitely be listening to more. Really well done.
John Grant’s debut solo album is versatile and powerful. You can totally hear someone like Father John Misty’s resemblance in the lyrics and charisma
TC & Honeybear - Marz - Sigourney Weaver - Outer Space
Rating: 7.5/10 Very good album overall. The vocals and lyrics were the standout: very nice vocals with honest lyrics. The instrumentation was great, folk/rock/pop inspired which complemented the vocals well. Second half falls a little short compared to the first half but still very enjoyable from start to finish. Favorite songs: Tc & Honeybear, Marz, Where Dreams Go To Die, Sigourney Weaver, Chicken Bones, Silver Platter Club, Jc Hates Faggots, Queen of Denmark. Worst song: It's Easier.
**In-Depth Review of John Grant’s Album “Queen of Denmark”** Released in 2010, *Queen of Denmark* is John Grant’s debut solo album, following the disbandment of his previous band, The Czars. The album quickly established Grant as a singular voice in the singer-songwriter landscape, celebrated for his stark, confessional lyrics, lush arrangements, and a unique blend of vulnerability and wit. Produced by the American folk-rock band Midlake, *Queen of Denmark* is a remarkable exploration of personal turmoil, self-acceptance, and resilience, set against a backdrop of 70s-inspired soft rock. ### **Lyrics** **Pros:** John Grant’s lyrical prowess is the centerpiece of *Queen of Denmark*. His lyrics are brutally honest, darkly humorous, and deeply personal, often drawing from his own experiences with addiction, heartbreak, and coming to terms with his sexuality. The album is a narrative of self-discovery and survival, delivered with a sharp, acerbic wit that makes even the darkest themes accessible and relatable. Songs like “I Wanna Go to Marz” encapsulate nostalgia and escapism through surreal imagery and a childlike yearning for innocence. The lyrics conjure up memories of a candy store Grant frequented as a child, serving as a metaphor for a simpler, happier time, away from the harsh realities of adult life. The whimsical tone is underscored by a bittersweet recognition of its unattainability, lending the song a poignant edge. In contrast, “Sigourney Weaver” displays Grant’s talent for blending humor with existential dread. The song uses pop culture references—specifically the actress Sigourney Weaver and her role in *Alien*—as a metaphor for feeling alienated and out of place. The absurdity of the comparisons (“I feel just like Sigourney Weaver, when she had to kill those aliens”) highlights the incongruity between Grant's internal experiences and the outside world, making it both funny and deeply sad. **Cons:** The intensely personal nature of the lyrics, while a strength, can also be alienating for some listeners. The specificity of Grant’s experiences, particularly his references to his struggles with homosexuality and substance abuse, may not resonate universally. Additionally, the album’s pervasive melancholy and self-deprecation might be overwhelming for those who prefer more uplifting or varied lyrical content. ### **Music and Arrangements** **Pros:** Musically, *Queen of Denmark* is a rich tapestry of 70s-inspired soft rock, folk, and baroque pop, largely due to Midlake’s involvement in the production. The band’s influence is evident in the warm, analog soundscapes that evoke the likes of Elton John, Bread, and early solo John Lennon. The arrangements are lush and expansive, featuring a blend of acoustic guitars, piano, mellotron, and intricate harmonies, all of which create a nostalgic yet timeless atmosphere. The album opens with “TC and Honeybear,” a delicate ballad that gradually builds into a sweeping orchestral climax. The song’s structure mirrors its emotional arc, starting with a gentle piano line and gradually incorporating strings, brass, and harmonized vocals. This progression creates a sense of intimacy that draws the listener into Grant’s world. “Where Dreams Go to Die” showcases Midlake’s skillful orchestration, with its blend of gentle acoustic guitar, mellotron, and subtle percussion. The song’s arrangement complements the lyrics’ exploration of disillusionment and the death of idealism, with the music slowly building in intensity to mirror the increasing emotional weight. **Cons:** While the album’s retro aesthetic is generally a strength, it occasionally borders on pastiche. Some critics have noted that the heavy reliance on 70s influences makes certain tracks feel overly familiar or derivative. For instance, “It’s Easier” and “Chicken Bones” bear such a strong resemblance to their 70s forebears that they can feel more like homage than original compositions. Additionally, the album’s consistent mid-tempo pace and reliance on similar instrumentation can lead to a sense of monotony over its 50-minute runtime. ### **Production** **Pros:** The production on *Queen of Denmark* is polished and meticulous, with a clear emphasis on creating a warm, analog sound that complements Grant’s songwriting. Midlake’s involvement as producers and backing band ensures a cohesive sonic palette throughout the album, allowing Grant’s voice and lyrics to take center stage. The use of vintage equipment and recording techniques adds a layer of authenticity to the album’s 70s-inspired sound, making it feel both nostalgic and fresh. The production particularly shines in its attention to detail. Each instrument is carefully placed in the mix, creating a rich, layered sound that rewards repeated listens. Tracks like “Silver Platter Club” feature intricate arrangements where the interplay between piano, strings, and vocal harmonies creates a lush, immersive listening experience. The clarity of the production allows each element to be heard distinctly, yet the overall effect is one of cohesion and unity. **Cons:** While the production is generally excellent, some listeners may find it overly polished. The album’s slick, radio-friendly sound contrasts sharply with the rawness of Grant’s lyrics, which might feel jarring to some. In certain tracks, the pristine production can come across as too smooth, potentially dulling the emotional impact of the songs. Additionally, the consistent sonic aesthetic might leave listeners craving more variety in terms of production choices. ### **Themes** **Pros:** Thematically, *Queen of Denmark* is a deeply introspective album that explores themes of identity, self-worth, and redemption. At its core, the album is about John Grant’s journey towards self-acceptance, grappling with his past mistakes, and coming to terms with his sexuality. The lyrics are often laced with dark humor and biting sarcasm, which serve to both mask and highlight the vulnerability at the heart of the album. One of the recurring themes is the struggle for self-acceptance in the face of societal and internalized prejudice. “Jesus Hates Faggots” is a stark confrontation of the homophobia Grant faced growing up in a conservative environment. The song’s blunt title and lyrics are a powerful statement of defiance, turning the hateful words he internalized as a youth into a cathartic expression of anger and pain. The song’s stripped-down arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, making it one of the most emotionally charged moments on the album. Another key theme is the tension between nostalgia and disillusionment. Throughout the album, Grant reflects on his past with a mixture of longing and regret, as seen in songs like “I Wanna Go to Marz” and “Where Dreams Go to Die.” These songs explore the loss of innocence and the realization that the idealized past can never be reclaimed. This theme of disillusionment is further explored in the title track, “Queen of Denmark,” where Grant lashes out at those who have wronged him, but ultimately turns the blame inward, acknowledging his own role in his unhappiness. **Cons:** The album’s thematic focus on personal struggle and self-reflection can be emotionally taxing for listeners. The relentless introspection and the often bleak subject matter might be overwhelming for those who prefer music that offers escapism or positivity. Additionally, some listeners might find the album’s themes to be too narrowly focused on Grant’s personal experiences, potentially limiting its broader appeal. ### **Influence** **Pros:** *Queen of Denmark* has had a significant impact on the singer-songwriter genre, particularly in how it blends confessional lyrics with lush, vintage-inspired production. The album helped reestablish John Grant as a major figure in indie music and influenced a wave of artists who similarly use their music as a means of personal expression and catharsis. Grant’s fearless exploration of his sexuality and mental health in his lyrics has resonated with many listeners, particularly those who have faced similar struggles. His willingness to tackle taboo subjects with a mix of humor and sincerity has paved the way for other artists to approach difficult topics with a similar candor. The album’s success also demonstrated the enduring appeal of 70s soft rock and baroque pop, genres that had fallen out of favor in the mainstream but found new life in the indie scene. *Queen of Denmark* helped to revive interest in these styles, influencing artists who seek to blend retro sounds with modern sensibilities. **Cons:** While *Queen of Denmark* has been influential, it has also been somewhat pigeonholed as a niche album, primarily appealing to those who appreciate its specific blend of 70s nostalgia and deeply personal lyrics. This has limited its influence in more mainstream circles, where its sound and themes might be considered too esoteric or niche. ### **Pros and Cons of the Album** **Pros:** 1. **Lyrical Depth and Honesty:** John Grant’s lyrics are brutally honest and deeply personal, offering a rare glimpse into his struggles with addiction, sexuality, and self-acceptance. His use of humor and irony adds layers of complexity to the emotional themes. 2. **Strong Musical Arrangements:** The album’s 70s-inspired arrangements, courtesy of Midlake, provide a lush, nostalgic backdrop that complements Grant’s songwriting. The instrumentation is rich and varied, with a careful balance between acoustic and electronic elements. 3. **Cohesive Production:** The production is polished and meticulous, with a warm, analog sound that enhances the album’s nostalgic feel. The attention to detail in the arrangements and mixing creates a cohesive and immersive listening experience. 4. **Thematic Consistency:** The album’s themes of identity, self-worth, and redemption are explored with depth and nuance. Grant’s introspective lyrics and emotional delivery make these themes resonate powerfully with listeners. 5. **Influence on the Genre:** *Queen of Denmark* has been influential in the indie singer-songwriter genre, particularly in how it blends confessional lyrics with retro-inspired production. It has inspired other artists to approach difficult topics with similar honesty and candor. **Cons:** 1. **Potential for Alienation:** The intensely personal nature of the lyrics, particularly the focus on Grant’s experiences as a gay man, may not resonate with all listeners. The specific references and themes might be alienating for those who cannot relate to Grant’s experiences. 2. **Overreliance on 70s Nostalgia:** While the 70s-inspired sound is a strength, it can also feel derivative at times. Some tracks border on pastiche, lacking the originality that might be expected from a debut album. 3. **Lack of Variety in Tempo and Mood:** The album’s consistent mid-tempo pace and reliance on similar instrumentation can lead to a sense of monotony. The emotional weight of the lyrics, combined with the uniformity of the arrangements, might make the album feel overwhelming or repetitive for some listeners. 4. **Polished Production:** While the production is generally excellent, it can sometimes feel overly polished. The slick, radio-friendly sound contrasts with the rawness of Grant’s lyrics, which might dilute the emotional impact of the songs for some listeners. 5. **Limited Mainstream Appeal:** The album’s niche appeal, both in terms of its sound and themes, has limited its influence in more mainstream circles. It may be too esoteric for listeners who prefer more accessible or uplifting music. ### **Conclusion** *Queen of Denmark* is a powerful debut album that established John Grant as a distinctive voice in the singer-songwriter genre. Its blend of confessional lyrics, lush 70s-inspired arrangements, and polished production creates a deeply emotional and immersive listening experience. While the album’s intensely personal nature and reliance on nostalgia might not appeal to everyone, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. *Queen of Denmark* remains a landmark album in Grant’s career and a significant influence on contemporary music, celebrated for its honesty, humor, and emotional depth.
Awesome album from someone I've never ever heard of before. It was witty, some silliness but still profound. I must have listened to it four times in a row.
Kinda gay but in a good way
Nice album.
So compelling. Loved it.
unexpected reat album. had many interesting and catchy moments!!! 3.5/5.0
I really liked the majority of this album. His voice was great, the musicality was great, it sounded really smooth and polished. I loved the differing varieties and feels to the differing songs. The only critique I have is track 10. I get what he was doing with it but at the end where he just said a bunch of slurs I just felt that kinda ruined the song for me. He had accomplished his goal so far throughout the song without that being necessary so I just don’t really know why he added that at the end. Otherwise very nice album.
Took me a whole to listen to this in full. Wasn't hitting at first but actually it's pretty good.
Beautiful and smooth musically, very clever and insightful lyrically. A new discovery and I already love it very much at my first listen.
This was a surprise. Kinda silly, but beautiful folk
hmmmmm a bit weird but entirely inoffensive, at least inoffensive sound wise. lyrically it is def offensive but i lowk fw dat
Recht melodisch
I actually really enjoyed this album! Live and tenderness, piano and synth with drifting sounds. Good singer and overall satisfying.
... why, though? What makes this an AYMHBYD? Seeing who had a very big hand in this album's production, why is this here and not Midlake's "The Courage of Others" from the same year? Like, if I were that band, I'd be rather pissed. There's competent and fairly pretty songwriting on here, but it all leaves me wanting for more. Or with some tracks less, actually.
Did not know John Grant before this album but I was absolutely blown away by just how damn great it was!
Surprisingly good. Instrumentals and vocals work well together here.
A wonderfully exciting album from John Grant. Some very solid vocals as well as the overall production. There was some interesting dialogue to say the least which kept me engaged all the way through. Best - TC & Honeybear, Sigourney Weaver, It's Easier, Outer Space, Caramel, and Queen Of Denmark Worse - no bad songs 3.50-3.75
Really enjoyed this. Slightly too long but there's some really interesting stuff on this, if he'd cut out a few songs it would have been perfect for me.
Really like this!
I only knew one or two John Grants songs before this. At first I wasn't sure I was into it but now at the end I think I may have loved it. Very unique way of delivering lyrics. A varied album in style and storytelling. Read up a bit about him, seems like a really interesting and progressive guy. Appreciated that his songs spoke about queer love. Some beautiful songs in here. Emotive, heartfelt, humourous, dramatic at times.
Good stuff!
This was a really pivotal album for me in my teens as I realised what popular music can be outside of radio rock songs. Combining a singer-songwriter style with some glam elements and a hefty dose of electronics, Grant expertly crafts a spacey melancholy world where dreams go to die. There is a deadpan wit amongst the heartbreak on songs like Sigourney Weaver and Chicken Bones and, while a couple of songs in the second half don’t quite land for me, it all builds towards the stunning title track
Not bad, but such odd lyrics. I think I liked it lol. Track 9 was a surprise to say the least. Good but odd.
-it sounds good -great instrumentation -John is a talented soul -at first sight, I thought I wouldnt enjoy this. Oh, how wrong I was -weird album cover -it sounds like an 80s album, even if it was made in 2010 -favorite songs: TC & Honeybear, Marz (<3), Where Dreams Go To Die, It's Easier (<3), Outer Space, the title track -least favorite song: Caramel
Funny, catchy, and open-hearted. Another one I might've missed without the list. To be honest, I'm not sure how this one ended up here, but I'm glad it did. Highlights: Marz, Sigourney Weaver, Chicken Bones, Silver Platter Club, Jc Hates Faggots, Leopard and Lamb, Queen of Denmark
I saw John Grant in the Exeter University student union when he was touring pale green ghosts, shortly after he'd announced he was hiv positive. It was very moving.
Ok, this is a charmer. Totally reads like the Michigan sound. You can hear all the influences on this record, without anything being a direct rip off. There’s SuperTramp and Elton John, mixed with Beck and Father John Misty. But somehow it works as one coherent sound. And the lyrics are fantastic.
Really interesting album with experimental music. The highlights were "Tc and Honey bear", "Chicken Bones", and "Queen of Denmark". Wasn't sure if I'd like this album, but glad I did.
Not familiar with him before this, really enjoyed this album. Unique song, mix of acoustic with some synth/electronic. powerful subject matter too
Way better than I expected from the cover. I thought it would be some overdone arty piece. Totally more chill.
I've never heard of this album or this person. I'm listening to the song "Queen of Denmark". Is this parody? We have a singer songwriter thing going on here. I assume the piano is his weapon of choice. These songs are really good and it's a nice listen. There's noticable a lot of playfulness in the lyrics. Sometime the music is very dramatic and the lyrics seem a little goofy at the same time. Maybe this guy is autistic. It's all very straightforward. There's a song about religion here and it goes pretty hard. Looks like this guy knows what he's doing after all. So after listening to the song "Sigourney Weaver" it clicked with me, the slice of life, storytelling style here is similar to Mark Kozelek/Sun Kil Moon. It's all a bit weird but engaging and interesting. The music is often times very dramatic and I'm getting Pink Floyd vibes every once in a while. This is really good. 4/5
Really like this!
This is interesting and kinda weird, one to revisit perhaps someday
Liked
Something I had never listened to, but I think could easily hear more.
I can only assume the “three bean salad” John speaks of in ‘JC Hates Faggots’ is the podcast.
It gets an extra star for that weird German accent song
The missing link between Randy Newman/Harry Nilsson and Father John Misty, which I love tho there is some pathos missing.
Beautiful, dramatic, and just odd enough to be very original. Good stuff! I especially liked Where Dreams Go to Die and Queen of Denmark.
This was a great listen. A deliberately humorous album a lot of the time, some songs like “Sigourney Weaver” were a delight. (One song’s whole gimmick was an unexpected use of several slurs — not as effective in my opinion.) Musically a lot of the tracks sound strangely familiar, but difficult to place; one example is “Chicken Bones,” whose main hook is basically the verse in “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” Chord progression and song structure similarities like this happened a few times, but I wouldn’t say that’s strictly a bad thing.
Between a 3 and a 4 here. Most of the music in this album is amazing while the lyrics are questionable at times. Some tracks are also a bit lackluster and I thing they could be cut out, but overall a vibe.
Singer-songwriter folk indie pop. A weird collection genres, it touches on a lot of sounds. Mostly acoustic guitar with the normal bass and drums accompaniment. I was a pretty big fan of the singing, not so much the lyrics. They felt very honest but in the same way quite childish and weak. There was a lot that I liked on the album, I don't think any song really stood out as being the worst. But also none of them really stood out as being greater than the rest. Just an overall solid enjoyable album. Might revisit, maybe I was missing something. 3.5/5
nice album, reminds me a bit of what i enjoy from jeff rosenstock. pretty unique, 7/10
Caramel
At first I didn't really know what to do with this album. It showcases a wide range of emotions, musicality and styles and I didn't feel it was an album as a whole. But slowly with listening a second and third time (only the album, not the lesser 4 bonus tracks) it is really growing on me. The Midlake flute and subtle orchestrations in Marz, the anger in JC Hates Faggots - writing away the hypocrisy of religion and homosexuality in his youth -, the humour in Chicken Bones, it all fits. I'm also glad that the album balances the heavier songs with the fluffier. An album that will go a few more times into rotation after this last 24 hours. I'm intrigued.
Some pretty good stuff here but some weird lyrics as well. Thought about going 5 stars but ultimately couldn't do it.
This was a very good record. Highlights were the title track, "sigourney weaver " and "outer space" .
Actually quite nice, didn't know it before!
What a remarkable album. This one is not perfect, but it has an eclectic charm to it. A lot of the lyrics and vocal melodies are downright clumsy and trite, but then it'll swing wildly and connect. What is consistent throughout is the backing provided by Midlake. I centainly hope one of their albums made it onto the list (they didn't). This is just different enough, crazy enough, bold enough for me to take an interest.
Some really beautiful lush moments
Muzikaal en fijn om naar te luisteren, maar mis een nummer dat je grijpt.
I was fully expecting this to be a bad album, but it's actually really good folk (even if it is occasionally weird/odd). His voice is perfect for the genre and vibes. I don't really appreciate the use of slurs in any music. But outside that, this is a great album.
Hat was, aber auch nicht übermäßig dieser Soft Rock.
Man's dropped the hard r in a song and I was not expecting it lol what a ride
Witty and blunt!
It was nice
I liked this one! Funny, smart songwriting; cohesive vibe across the album without letting every song sound the same.
When I first saw the album cover I was not expecting good things, but it grew on me!
Wasn't sure what to expect, but I quite liked it!
4.25
Alussa kuuluuu happoradion hittibiisiä, ja sitten kolmannessa biisissä tv sarja raidin tunnaria, että viulun säröä, Y&V lunesta. Neljännessä biisissä kuuluu oh lord i cant changeee, This boy's too young to be singing The blues, ah, ah ja mahti keikka taivaassa biisiä.. kaikki uskomattomia teoksia tähän asti.. Caramel on Tout'luniversin mourningia... en suurin fani euroviisu pelleillylle... Viimeissä biisissä ollaankiin echoesin suurissa vesissä increible.. Lyriikoissa keikutaan suuntaan ja toiseen... tämä harmistuttaa monia.. heh hyvä jso kuuntelit harmistuspäillä.. hyvä...
A more polished version of something like Magnetic Fields' 69 Love Songs. An interesting combination of unmediated shower thoughts, rhyming doggerel and slippery images.
"Chicken Bones" is perfect. Songs: The music is beautiful and the lyrics are odd. Personal and aloof at the same time. There is something engaging about the vocal melodies on this album that remind me of songs from the classic rock era. Production: The flange/chorus effect on the vocals make everything sound like John Lennon's vocal on Across the Universe. The backing tracks sound authentic and are absent of whatever ugliness was happening with recording in 2010. Performances: Solid.
I really like this album, I love the overall sound, the humour the instrumentation, lots of great tracks. It's quite refreshing as a lot of this list is similar sounding rock bands.
What a great album by someone I had never heard of. The instrumentation was pure, like, 1976 bliss, with refreshing lyrics. I'm a fan, whoever this person is.
Good album, a little strange at times. I'm gonna need a few more listens to fully appreciate this album. I enjoyed it a lot though.
Great album, really enjoyed Sigourney Weaver and Queen of Denmark, 8/10
3.5
The music on the album is really good if you don't try to understand the lyrics. Some of these are very direct.
Very cool
One of those albums that effortlessly walks the line between beautiful and familiar, comical but heartfelt. Biased here as I already enjoyed Midlake's reserved but emotional jams from knowing them as a local band, but coupled with Grant's effortless storytelling and a symphonic punch, their songwriting takes on a new dimension and sounds larger than ever before. As for Grant, he's one of the rare songwriters who doesn't sound like he's fishing for snaps at the local poetry night. It's crystal clear what the lived experiences channeled here are, but never do they feel forced or insincere. Amazing how this man manages to plumb the depths of depravity and pure human kindness in the same verse, all with the cadence of your buddy you grab a beer with once a week at the local bar. Big props as well for giving this forever-topical treatise on the queer experience some needed outlets as well with the dryest humor known to man - 'Sigourney Weaver' had me dying, and I wish I could say more singer-songwriter albums from this project have elicited the same reaction.
John Grant is an excellent songwriter, creating heartfelt, engaging tunes like what you'll hear on this near-perfect album. Even when he's corny, like on "Sigourney Weaver", it's clear he's being so on purpose. It's charming! By the way, what is it with gay people and wanting to go to Mars?
A third of my way though my journey I was like eh...its a 3. I'm not sure why, but it really started to grow on me and I'm still thinking about it now. So it's a 4 because I think it deserves another listen. Lyrically it's fucking weird, there's a song which I think is about ice cream favors, and a song about Jesus hating minorities...
Un album très mélodieux et satisfaisant dans l'ensemble, on regretta simplement que John se transforme en Helmut Fritz vers la fin et se mette à lister toutes les choses qui l'énervent. Incompréhensible.
Délicieux album de la part de notre desormais ami John Grant.
This is exactly the sort of thing I came here for. This was kind of amazing. Not quite five star musicianship but certainly a five-star experience.
Extremely clever. Nothing about the music wows me, but the lyrics are magnificent.
Man this guy was going through a breakup when he wrote this 4/5
not sure the genre but it reminded me of a mix of David Bowie and The Beatles at times. Really enjoyable
Pretty good. 3.5
Definitely didn’t expect what I got from the album cover, but really enjoyed the down to earth similes and pop references alongside unmasked insecurity and vulnerability.
This one is good! No song sounds like the other; the lyrics are oftentimes hilariously funny. This is a great find. 4/5
Based on Spotify stats, this is quite the hidden gem. It has the full feel of a singular artistic mind perfecting his craft. Witty, albeit sometimes non-sensical lyrics, a sometimes haunting sometimes upbeat fun music track come together to put in a nice package. I recommend reading up on John Grant's background to get a better understanding of the music he is going for. Not sure if I will ever come back to this, but it gets two thumbs up from me.
Great instrumental interplay in this album (see: acoustic guitar+piano+strings in Marz). The smooth, light harmonising in many of the choruses also makes for some great easy-listening. The harmonies and melodies are generally strong and enjoyable. That being said, nothing in this album blew me away or demonstrated some idea I'd never seen before (apart from possibly the quirky lyrics). The track "JC Hates Faggots" is pretty on-the-nose with its lyrics - just a fair warning. Sixteen incredibly solid tracks well worth a re-listen, but nothing outstanding. Key tracks: TC & Honeybear, Marz, It's Easier, Outer Space Huh tracks: That's The Good News, Supernatural Defibrillator, What Time?
Really good. Love me some John Grant. His lyrics are unique and his voice has a really rich quality to it.
Well crafted and unique, but not my vibe.
i liked this album! Like keane but in the 80s.
I was put off by the album art at first. That one review was right about this sounding like Bo Burnham, it’s like his style but way more serious. The songs here are great as well, the melodic piano bits are awesome. Love the sound here! Pretty good.
I quite like this album. Will probably give it another listen…
Pretty good. I was skeptical but I think it deserves another listen.
Very surprised by this album. Goes to show you can't judge an album by its cover. Very lou Reed meets David bowie.