Reviews (page 2 of 7)
I was not prepared for this absolutely beautiful album this morning. Ethereal but dark folk / alt-country sound. The strings float beautifully over his deep baritone voice. Simple acoustic guitar strumming / finger picking. I am loving this album! Favourite tracks: honestly, just all of them
I've been sitting on this one for a while - it's still blowing me away weeks later. Pretty much a perfect album. As pointed out elsewhere this isn't really 'country' music at all, at least to my ears.
I have not heard Bill Callahan before. I am now searching out all his albums. Loved this. Poetic and interesting!
Inesperadísima obra maestra. No había escuchado a Callahan y me voló la mente. Gran voz, grandes letras, una música que se mete en tus huesos y no te deja ir. Cinco estrellas rotundas.
God I love Bill Callahan. Potentially peaked here; so many years into his career. Can understand his voice isn't for everyone. But the song writing is undeniable. Guessed the total rating exactly.
Really incredible. I enjoyed almost every song. I thought the interlude could've been better and the final track was meh but everything else blew me away. Unfamiliar with him or Smog but will definitely have to check it out. Feels like finding out Silver Jews has a long lost brother Rating: 4.9
Меланхолія, легка туга, ну і, звісно, цей прекрасний голос. Виконавець для мене відкриття, і, до того ж, дуже приємне.
Як ви знаєте, із alt country музикою я почав знайомитися відносно нещодавно. І цей жанр не перестає мене дивувати своєю багатогранністю та вражаючою душевністю. І якщо говорити про Bill Callahan, то він є вже доволі давнім та відомим музикантом на цій сцені. Але до 2007 року - він називав себе Smog та грав щось більш схоже на indie folk. І з його творчістю того періоду, я, на жаль, ще не встиг познайомитись належним чином, але після прослуховування Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle, я неодмінно збираюсь це зробити. Бо те, що я почув тут - це просто мед для вух. На цьому альбомі, Білл відправляється у глибоку подорож «в середину своєї душі», але зовсім не для того щоб у чомусь розібратись. Він і так прекрасно розуміє, що «нічого не розуміє», а тому - просто спостерігає за своїми відчуттями, та передає нам свої емоції через живописні пасторальні образи. Все це супроводжується просто неймовірними #folk аранжуваннями, що є одними з найкрасивіших, що я чув у своєму житті. Коли різнобарвні та винахідливі фолкові партії, не просто підкреслюють основну лінію гітари, як це зазвичай відбувається, а навпаки - є головними у побудові цієї мрійливої подорожі. І в якийсь момент, ти просто розчиняєшся у цій трансцендентній атмосфері, що нагадує прогулянку ранковим літнім лісом. Коли пташки вже почали співати, а сонце тільки-но зійшло. А якщо говорити про «емоційну віддачу», то це певно один із найзахоплюючих альбомів, що я колись слухав, та який, на мою думку, є справжнім шедевром.
Great album, Bill Callahan has a soothing deep voice, and the arrangements really moved me
Found it incredibly compelling, though I couldn’t say exactly why
What a pleasant surprise this album was, I really enjoyed it
This will be the seventh day in a row where I've had an album from an artist I'd never heard of until starting this project. I'm pretty picky about my country music, so I'm not sure how I'll feel about this album. However, my maternal grandmother's maiden name is Callahan, so maybe that's a positive sign? Let's see! This album was a really pleasant surprise. I thought the songwriting was superb, and the arrangements were fantastic as well. Bill Callahan did a fantastic job of creating some really vivid settings with his music, and the sound complemented the lyrics really well. “Rococo Zephyr” is a prime example of how Bill did this; the strings and the tinkling of the piano created an atmosphere that perfectly matched the theme of water in the lyrics. I enjoyed the album’s cohesive sound, but each song really brought something different to the table, in terms of sounds and themes. If I had to pick a favorite song off of this album, I think I’d have to go with “All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast.” The guitar playing and percussion were fantastic, and the horns and strings just added to the beauty and of the sound. “Eid Ma Clack Shaw” was great too; the bass was terrific, and it went well with the confusing and frantic mood of the song’s lyrics. All in all, there wasn’t a bad song on the album. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Bill’s vocals, but this album was still beautiful, and I can understand how it received so much praise from music critics.
Jim Cain. This is fucking great
This is an artist that really keys in on my preferred style. Mostly acoustic instruments but with cinematic editing and effects. Soft vocals, lo-fi aesthetic. It reminds me of bands like Granddaddy and Sparklehorse. Vaguely similar to some of my favorite artists like Spencer Radcliffe and Alex G.
What a revelation! Didn't know the artist before, but won't forget him!
What an incredible voice. As a fan of Leonard Cohen and Johnny Cash this is right up my alley. This is the modern country I've been looking for. The instrumentation is really sparse and aids the vocals super well, usually just an acoustic guitar and light touches of drums, bass and other snare instruments. Lyrics are beautiful as well. Great to have a new discovery after 20 days of albums I already knew.
I loved this. Put it on repeat
4.6 - I feel like this is quite a mature album thats a real pleasure to listen to
It‘s a haunting beauty. What a gem.
Adore this record. It's just absolutely lovely. Take out of the book incorrectly, especially as there's no other Smog in the book. This is my favourite, but Dream River and Red Apple Falls are also great, and lots more besides. I'm prepared to believe that Bill really did write Eid Ma Clack Shaw lyrics in his sleep. Quirky innovations like that drivel reveal, and the one word at a time fade in from Too Many Birds hooked me in and I just fell in love with this gorgeous and comfy record. I could drink Faith/Void in all day. I've heard it so many times and only just now realised it's nearly 10 minutes long.
this is a strangely enigmatic and fascinating album. i couldn't stop listening to it, although singer/songwriter stuff is usually not my angle.
This album is so much better than the cover! I was expecting some twangy country sounds, but I got some earthy folk instead. Loved it.
Fuck. This is almost too good to be on this list. Gave me chills.
Oh yes.
Hyper articulate heavy vibes. Very dig.
Loved this album a lot
Such an amazing listen. Enjoyed it throughout.
I really enjoyed this album. To be honest, I’m not too familiar with Bill Callahan. I’ve listened to Smog a few times and enjoyed it, and I once checked out a collaboration album between him and Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Now, this album is absolutely amazing. I love his baritone voice, which is deep and full-bodied. His vocal delivery is calm and almost conversational, flowing naturally without ever sounding forced. The production is clean, crisp, polished, and layered, allowing each element to shine. It gives the music a beautiful, bright, and colorful vibe. Out of everything I’ve heard from Bill Callahan so far, this is definitely my favorite.
A perfect album for a Sunday.
It’s lovely. Pure and simple and honest. Birds and nature and Callahan’s reflections on life. Deceptively simple melodies and song structures make this a surprisingly deep and beautiful album
Another instant 5 star, one of my favs
I am completely floored
I've come late to Bill Callahan; I'm catching up gradually. This was new to me but it's lovely.
This was super nice and chill and I really liked it.
want on vinyl this album atomizes me i love great country songwriting
I swear Bill Callahan must have had an old man's wisdom since he was a teen...
I was worried when I saw the cover but I live this type of indie music. Really good, made me feel things.
Well okay, this is why I'm doing this list. Love this.
Stamping a place amongst underground circles for years under pseudonyms, Bill Callahan came around to using his own name and forged a concrete identity with it. His second record, Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle, is a revelatory, riveting listening experience from start to finish. Not a note is wasted, every minute of a song has meaning and it pulls you into a world you'd wish you'd stay in for longer than forty-eight minutes. I've got nothing else to add other than give it a listen. I'm glad I had.
I listened to this while inside on a rainy day, and I feel like it fit the vibe perfectly. Calm soothing indie folk is a vibe I enjoy a lot, and I loved this album.
Enjoyed this way more than I had expected!
Very good
Beautiful album 👌👌👌
So unassuming yet so fascinating. Well written, composed and arranged in it's simplicity. So many subtleties. Second listen through is even better than the first.
Really lovely album throughout, with lyrics that paint beautiful pictures. Not an every day listen, but emotionally affecting. Favorite tracks: "Too Many Birds" (his only song with which I had prior familiarity) and "All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast."
Singer-songwriter, alt-country, Americana. I was pretty skeptical of this album at first, not really the genres I delve into a lot especially one as recent as this. The first song kind of threw me off, some of the vocals sounded dangerously close to spoken word and I did not want a full album of that. But as the album progressed, Callahan shows off his vocal ability and the lush, soothing instrumentals backing him really pulled me in. It was a very mellow and introspective album, the lyrics clearly felt very personal even if I didn't read into them a whole lot. I think this album was mixed and produced masterfully and I loved how weird it occasionally got. I felt like it picked up a lot in quality towards the later half, but it could have been that I listened to that part at a different time. Overall, very happy with this album. I would love to listen to it again and read the lyrics. Really want to relisten. 4.5/5
I was a bit worried seeing the country label paired with the low overall rating but this caught me by surprise. It had nothing to do with country. Some doom folk maybe? And the low overall rating on albums I really like is nothing new. This is going onto my heavy rotation; what a beautiful piece of art
Музыка чтобы просто быть, меня унесло, спасибо
музыкально это просто 2-3 (ну норм) но ебучая магия голоса и атмосферы меня захватила и пленила. я хз, это странное чувство что ни я контролировал музыку а она меня алкоальбом: батя взял гитару у родственников и начал петь песни. а вы после водочки уже хорошо себя чувствуете
Блин, мы слушали что-то похожее уже точно! Там где чел записал музыку у озера. И голос у этого чела такой знакомый! Прям... Создалось впечатление, что мы с ним друзья. Это очень какая-то интимная что ли музыка. Мечтательная. Не очень сложная, но дико атмосферная. Любимая композиция - The Wind and The Dove
So…. Relaxing…
Nice
I've listened to Bill Callahan (and Smog) a little before, but it never made too much of an impact. He's got a fantastic voice, and the songs are usually very lush, melodic arrangements, so I suspect I've tended to let it drift into the background. Well, this project has prompted me to pay closer attention, and I _loved_ what I heard. Such fantastic lyrics! He's maybe kinda in the same ballpark as Nick Cave, but whereas Cave is theatrical and bombastic, Callahan is more introspective, tinged with melancholy and .... hope? Great stuff - will make a point of going through his back catalog now. Fave tracks - "Too Many Birds", "My Friend" and "All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast" is a hell of a 3 track run!
More Americana than I have ever delved into, but with lofi and indie elements. I really enjoyed this album. Several parts where his voice is so low, very sonorous. He sings like he’s sitting down. Feels like that creaking saddle.
What a breath of fresh air. I would have never expected something like this to be on this list. It surprises me every once in a while I guess. Very lovely.
definitely not your average gym album but it was a good enough album it didn’t even matter. very beautiful throughout. achieves exactly what it sets out to do
sehr schön
Så fucking bra. Otroligt mysigt album
Yeah, this is something special. Warm and sad and kind
Blown away by this one. Wasn't expecting much but songs I'm excited to hear again!
Had never heard of this guy. ?Alt-country. Really love the tone of his voice and the quality of the recording. Deceptively someone but well executed. The last two tracks aren't as good as the others. The penultimate track seems like a complete throwaway. Will be listening to this again and will try other album by this artist.
I loved this it was wonderful
Poetic, great
This was a trippy album to listen to. Vocals were monotone but in a pleasing way? The lyrics were beautiful if only a little repetitive but it never got annoying. It just pulled you in to a trance and kind of slowed everything down.
This was outstanding. Dark. Melodic. One of the more emotional singers I have ever heard. I will be revisiting this and his catalog.
Absolutely perfect from first sound to last music. 5/5
this is smog! it's a super enjoyable album
Beautiful
Oh my god how calm it is. I love this.
Unexpectedly kinda liked this one and also vibed with the following Spotify radio.
I was hooked from the first sounds. The songwriting is gloriously clever, the instrumentation is a fantastic accompaniment to the themes of each song, and the album as a whole is a really good concept. Also goodness, I wasn't familiar with Bill Callahan coming into this, but I'm a fan. What an awesome bass-baritone voice.
Phenomenal album! Reminds me a lot of silver jews but a bit more happy
Adore it, mellow and quirky
Was quite excited to get this, as I am a strong casual fan and have not heard this in full. Some of his loveliest work on here, I think, and I'll probably add it to the collection. Jim Cain is exquisite, Eid Ma Clack Shaw poignantly funny, Faith/Void masterful. 2 listens, purchased and 5*
Fascinating, compelling, emotional. Strong Nick Drake resemblance.
At first listen Bill Callahan seems to fit in well with the songwriters of the early seventies like Townes Van Zandt, Nick Drake, and Lou Reed. It’s always refreshing to find well-composed, underground, and almost poetic music emerging in the 21st century. I can confidently say that “Jim Cain” is the most well written song we’ve gotten that (likely) none of us has ever heard, and even the very first lines are worth taking a deeper dive into. Why is he looking for the ordinary, as opposed to the extraordinary? Things don’t turn out as planned, but how do things end? Callahan’s songs take on a variety of experimental lyrical structures, such as the pyramid buildup in the back half of “Too Many Birds” and the well-placed repetition in “Faith/Void.” But more significantly, they invoke a variety of images in our minds. “All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast” is a stroll through the Columbia River Gorge while an angry Pacific storm brews out west. “Invocation of Ratiocination” is an eerily still midnight on the usually gusty Dakota plains. “Rococo Zephyr” is a warm breeze over whichever backyard creek makes you most yearn for the carefree days of youth. Stylistically, the album is a crossover between mid-career Beatles (particularly “Eleanor Rigby” from Revolver and “Blue Jay Way” from Magical Mystery Tour) and Transformer by Lou Reed. Bill Callahan’s lyrics are as rich as any and go far beyond most on even this list. I’d never heard of Callahan or anything by him, but I’ll definitely take a look at his catalog. I’m not sure if he found what he was looking for on his search for ordinary things, but with this album he’s certainly given us something more than ordinary.
This is fantastic, one of the best discoveries so far
The best artist I’ve discovered so far on the platform. His deep clear voice sounds a bit like an indie Leo Kottke, the lyrics are thought provoking, but it’s the musical arrangements that blew me away. The varied melodic syncopation has uncommon feeling and depth to it. In particular My Friend and All Thoughts are Prey to Some Beast propelled this to a 5 star album from a solid 4.
sonzao, tranquilo e tal, bem produzido, tipo um leonard cohen moderno
yay smog
-Almost Leonard Cohenesque -folk undertone
A sad, beautiful album that I need to listen to again.
So incredibly good
Álbum chill para trabalhar
Beautiful album - never heard of Bill Callahan before this - strong 4 out of 5
A lovely record.
vocals have a very familiar quality to them. Feel like I must have hear the wind and the dove before...somewhere. Album is generally pleasant (excluding Invocation... which is an absolute stinker) but I don't see anything too special. Checking out the acclaim this album received it is definitely overrated. 3.5/5
Really enjoyed actually, should listen to more/again
enjoyed a lot more than i thought i would!
Oh what a gem find. Definitely why I am doing this list. Never heard of the guy, never heard of this album, but it's beautiful. Too Many Birds is the standout and I loved the final track called Faith/Void. Kinda of reminds me of bit of Radiohead in that some of the songs don’t at first seem like songs but they get in your head.
cool, should listen again to the lyrics
A complete surprise - thoroughly enjoyed
8.5/10
i'm pretty sure i listened to a smog album years ago, but never bothered to check out Bill Callahan's solo work Jim Cain - 5/5 Eid Ma Clack Shaw - 5/5 The Wind and the Dove - 5/5 Rococo Zephyr - 4/5 Too Many Birds - 5/5 My Friend - 3/5 All Thoughts Are Prey to Some Beast - 4/5 Invocation of Ratiocination - 3/5 Faith / Void - 4/5 Average score: 4.2/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ someone else already mentioned it in a review but i don't think the country tag is all that accurate. country folk maybe? anyway, i wasn't sure what to expect from this album but for once, this exceeded any expectations i had going into this. his deep baritone voice, the string arrangements... it's haunting and atmospheric, but in a very beautiful way i wanted to give this 5 stars, but a couple 3-star tracks kinda dropped my anticipated score. i don't think it would've made much of a difference anyway, like the difference between 4 and 4.5 stars really as much as i crap on some of the albums that made this list, sometimes i'm thrown a curveball like this album and blown away. hell yeah
Not bad. Very mellow. Good songwriting. The vocals are very Leonard Cohen-esque. I enjoyed his.
Gently compelling, anchored by his very listenable baritone. 'The Wind and The Dove' stood out initially but then the rest of the album turned out great too
I'm already very familiar with Callahan through the lovely Smog project, which is one of the many cornerstones of sad 90s lower-fi folk. This one is very much in line with Bonnie Prince Billy's I See A Darkness, another lush expansion of one man's formerly depressing lo-fi folk project. It makes sense that they collaborated. I'm just glad to see Bill represented on this list; a highly underrated songwriter and one that may be responsible (unintentionally) for two of the best albums of all time, for better and for worse: Moon Pix and Ys.
Funny that this appeared on this list now, I was thinking of listening to this album just a few days back, after hearing some good things about Bill Callahan. A very introspective, surreal, and floaty album with stream-of-consciousness type lyricism over slow, atmospheric Americana-inspired instrumentation, with touches of baroque and folk laced throughout. It's all very dramatic and dense and does a great job at creating the world that you'll be encapsulated within for the duration of the record. Ultimately, though, Bill's vocals are the draw here; they're very blunt, both lyrically and in his delivery. He has this almost talk-sing style, and not as much driving melody in his singing as you'd expect from a singer-songwriter album. Found it a bit gimmicky at first, but it didn't take long for it to start clicking. It's a very unique style. There's a lot of nature-centric imagery on this record; the most obvious is 'All Thoughts Are Prey to Some Beast,' which helps contextualize the title of the album itself. The song uses smaller birds and an Eagle to represent the protagonist's intrusive thoughts taking up unwanted real estate in his mind. I love the way the strings and horns swell on this song as the Eagle reigns over these trees with smaller nests, and it's maybe the most emotive performance by Bill here. 'Too Many Birds' also has more of that nature-driven imagery; I really enjoyed the simplicity of the writing of this track and many of the other songs here (like on 'My Friend') - it feels like basic observational writing tied to some deeper meaning for the protagonist, like him finding solace and relatability in the most day-to-day things in nature. The internal monologuing nature of the writing here is just fantastic; it instantly ropes you in with the dreariness and morbidity of the first two songs, the twisted soft-heartedness and sarcasm of the hook in 'Eid Ma Clack Shaw' especially stuck with me. The opener 'Jim Cain', upon revisit after finishing the album, seems almost confined when compared to the freeing and euphoric messaging of the closer 'Faith/Void', it's such a depressing opener...leaves a void in my soul...love it. An album that I think would still greatly benefit from more repeated listening, Bill leaves the listener with a lot to chew on with the songs here. He does so much with so little; the imagery and sounds are very in your face, but it still seems like there are a million different ways to bounce the ideas presented here in your head. Beautiful album.
Would listen to more by the guy, didn't love every song but I enjoyed the general vibes
Jim Cain // The Wind and The Dove // Too Many Birds //
I always wonder where to start with Bill/Smog and his other endeavors. Here is as good a place as any. Anyhow, definitely a rabbit hole I can go down.
Pleasantly surprised by this, very sombre, simplistic almost, but nice chill listen
really liked this good morning listen
I dig this vibe. Really dry delivery with some dreamy indie pop.
I did not get it on the first listen, but the end of the album made me relisten since it was much better. The arrangements are great and the lyrics are fitting. I just find the vocal performance dull. More like spoken word than singing.
i can see the appeal but it's not for me i think. listening to it more tho it's growing on me lowk. time and place for it, but it's nice.
Wow! I am definitely here for this!
Nada más empezar, creía que estaba escuchando a Kurt Wagner con su banda Lambchop. Pero por mucho que la voz y el estilo de Bill Callahan se parezca a aquel, Bill nos ofrece un viaje por otros derroteros, aunque no puede negar que hay cierta influencia de aquella banda. Catalogar el álbum no es fácil, así que diremos que es un folk-rock o country alternativo, y así no nos pillamos los dedos. El disco se podría haber hecho monótono, pero los buenos arreglos lo hacen mucho más interesante ("The Wind And The Dove" es claro ejemplo). Hay momentos acústicos deliciosos (el comienzo de "My Friend") y experimentos sonoros que para mí, sobran. "Faith/Void" pone el broche final de manera sublime, lo mejor del disco.
Really pretty rainy day vibes. Poetic and interesting instrumentation. Production quality is top notch, it sounds amazing. It made me feel things
Calling this any type of country seems like a bad call. Interesting and well put together. I enjoyed it, but it’s not quite at that top tier for me
Prime post-Smog Bill. Rich and moody, simple songs enhanced by measured arrangements.
I loved this album more than I thought I would. Every song is a pleasure to listen to. "Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle" isn't perfect, but it's close. There's one song from this album that I would call perfect, "Eid Ma Clack Shaw". The piano keys make it a classic. 4 stars for "Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle".
Bello
I enjoy Bill Callahan’s musical style but I suspect there are many who would not enjoy it. His songs are more confessional, quiet, and deadpan. I don’t believe I heard a chorus on any song. It’s as though he gloms onto a thought of phrase and repeats it. The songs are a bit odd and abstract, but I do like it.
This is REALLY solid. I love the tracks that feature Callahan's remarkably flat vocals over an incredibly rich composition. The juxtaposition of the two makes for a really rewarding listen. I can imagine a less creative direction wherein a modern stadium country singer croons the same lyrics over the same instrumentals to a much less effective result. Far from a no skips album, but a solid one nonetheless. 4/5
Ik heb een zwak voor Bill Callahan
Bill Callahan op de aux is altijd genieten
De meest consistente artiest van een generatie.
A very interesting album. The vocals are kinda doing their own thing, in an almost trance like way. It’s so unique and meditative that it’s hard to describe. The music is really well done. I have a hard time telling if I really liked it, or if it was just fine. It was enjoyable, and I don’t think I’ve ever quite heard anything like it.
I remember the first time I heard Bill Callahan, I was working in a little architectural book shop in the city (which is way too niche for the city I live in and so it didn’t last long!) It was from a Smog album called Red Apple Falls, I'd listen to Rock Bottom Riser on repeat and it's still a surprising favourite all these years later! He also sings on one of my favourite songs of all time - Only Skin by Joanna Newsom, chills every time. While he's not a musician I listen to very often, there's just something about his music is really love, and I can't quite put my finger on it. This was the perfect album for sitting the gallery over the weekend, soft, a bit weird, a bit arty, but inoffensive.
Bon et à réécouter!
No idea who this is. Really enjoying the opening track from the start. I don’t have a lot to say about this other than I like it. I like his deep voice. Has a Leonard Cohen vibe.
Faith/Void שיר כל כך יפה 3.8 מתוך 5 על האלבום.
I quite liked this. A few tracks stood out. Interesting arrangements.
kind of lovely indie nonesnse, it feels like somehting alot of people are referencing badly. the sort of talk singing is kind of complelling. feels very townses van zandtsish
Uh oh cowgirls and cowboys and cow people and cows as well AND bulls and non-gender conforming bovine. Have I got everyone? Leave your complaints with me, I'll get around to you. Wear your pin! Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah 2009??? NO. Frequently remembered as the year civilization jumped the shark, 2009 had almost nothing of creative merit (so says my failing brain) but this record's front cover intrigues me. I believe I've heard of this, and if it's weird little indie country, well shucks it might even gain itself a soft spot in my heart. I really need to get that heart softening disease checked out. Alright, this is pretty nice, but the vocals aren't quite there. I wanted this to be more devastating as well. Maybe I'm not listening closely enough. It's kind of hard to not listen as closely as he vocals are FRONT and CENTER. Jesus he is loud. We've got nice melodies, beautiful lyrics, gorgeous string, but man these vocals are not it for me. Ahhh this is a hard one. Oh man. Imagine me wringing my chubby/greasy palms in front of the somehow greasier keyboard, blackened with the memories of years of taquito drippings. Uhhh yeah it's a 4. Great job big Bill. Although, it is I wish I was an Eagles OR I wish we were eagleS! Take that one for free. 3.5-4 HIGHLIGHTS: GO HORSEY GO
Don’t know what inspect from this album but was pleasantly surprised. Really enjoyed it will be adding it to my collection.
I had a very nice nap to the second half of this album. I did go back listen to it again and it was indeed a very pleasant album, which works as background music or as more focused listening. The orchestration is excellent and really adds to a lot of the songs. I do like his voice, though I understand it may be an acquired taste.
His voice sounded eerily familiar until I read that he was in smog and it clicked. A really nice album that has some great lyrics and interesting delivery (I like the occasional pauses to emphasise certain words). His voice cuts through the mix well where too much additional bass would have muddied things too much and so the acoustic guitar and strings that primarily provide the melodic backbone really fits.
I was surprised by how much I liked this one! Callahan's voice is very soothing, and the whole album feels very honest.
I like the descriptive, reflective lyrics, which he delivers well with his baritone. Somewhat of a Knopfler style, although less musically developed.
Ik heb genoten van dit album. De muziek is mooi en hij bewijst ook dat je geen herrie hoeft te maken om muziek experimenteel te maken. Het is verrassend en het zit heel goed in elkaar. Qua storytelling zit het goed inelkaar. Ik heb gelachen om het nummer Eid Ma Clack Sha. Rococo vond ik erg goed! Het nummer my friend gaat de muziek heerlijk over van die overdreven lage stem naar een muzikaal genotje. Heel erg leuk album
Tess geeft het een 4 misschien wel een 5. Ze kende het niet maar heeft het veel geluisterd dit weekend. Als ze dit in 2009 had ontdekt was het het waarschijnlijk een klassieker voor haar geweest. De vrouw die rococo zingt vindt ze juist leuk. Ik ben het met haar eens.
I found Faith/Void to be a bit too repetitive, one sided, preachy and didactic in espousing a theistically skeptical worldview and I'd think a more heartfelt song like That's Why I Love Mankind by Randy Newman is a much better treatment of wrestling with God but the rest of the songs on this album are wonderful folk songs that range anywhere from relaxing countryside tunes to dark ballads on human nature.
It may be unfair to review an album in my current state, but fuck it. This is my review. I listened to about a third of this album, then received some entirely unexpected news about a family member in the hospital. I've had a really difficult time with the news, and admittedly I'm still processing it as I write this, but I relistened to the album and it didn't make me feel better, but maybe not so upset at myself for how I'm feeling. The vocals, while rough on the first listen, complement the lyrics exceptionally well. The push and pull of beautiful instrumentation and sometimes-subtle-sometimes-overt darker moments really hit me. I left the album feeling not so alone with my own complicated feelings.
a highlight of Bill Callahan's discography. there had been some beautiful arrangements, increased instrumentation, vocal clarity, and lyrical inclusion on the natural world in his works leading up to this, but they were often tempered with sonic experimentation, lo-fi recording qualities, and a healthy willingness to obscure. on Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle, he embraces melody and allows the band to fill out these songs with sweeping strings, rhythmic intrigue, and brooding tension. "Jim Cain" is one of the most beautiful songs he's written, and "Eid Ma Clack Shaw" provides such great use of non-lexical vocables. there's moments of humor in the lyrics, but not as dry as his records under the Smog moniker, and not as evocative as later recordings (a great example being "The Sing" off the album Dream River). one of my favorite aspects of Bill Callahan as a performer and songwriter (and an approach he shares with sometimes-collaborator Will Oldham aka Bonnie "Prince" Billy) is that he doesn't move from one moment into the next in a song until it is time to do so -- it never feels rushed. this especially plays out live in concert. for first-time Callahan listeners, I'd suggest the two songs from this album I mentioned above, but not the rest of this album. those suggestions would be: Knock Knock - Smog Apocalypse - Bill Callahan Dream River - Bill Callahan Dongs of Sevotion - Smog
It's kinda boring, but I'm a sucker for a baritone. 3.5
This is more impressive than I thought it'd be. I like that lil calm shit.
I'd never heard of Bill Callahan, but his voice sounded very familiar and a bit of digging helped me to find out he used to be Smog. I knew and liked the odd Smog song but didn't really know much of his work. This album was pretty downbeat but I enjoyed it. It makes me want to listen to more of Callahan's/Smog's work.
Lite fred åkerström-vibe. Mer i min smak. Gillade Rococo Zehgyr och Eid Ma Clack Shaw. 3.85
the best of the old-man-with-deep-raspy-voice-sings-pseudo-philosophical-songs genre
On dirait qu'il me parle enchantant c'est bon
Beautiful instrumentation
7/10
4.25 - Listened on repeat 2x though at home, but never got to pay attention to which songs. Obsessed with Bill though
Íntimo, conmovedor y hermoso
Damn, I really liked this and it could easily become a 5 but I can't describe why that is at all.
I own this album digitally, but have not listened to it in a long while. A great first album after his Smog albums. The opening song Jim Cain is just magnificent and there is something funky about Eid Ma Clack Show, and then it just keeps you hooked with every song. I see some comments about his voice, but I find it incredibly soothing and combined with his great array of instrumentation it results in a great listen. The violin in Too Many birds is just marvellous. The album ends just as well as it starts. It is time to put God away. Standout song is Too Many Birds. This is very close to a 4. So close that I am giving it a 4
Ompa mielenkiintosta muzakkia. Tää on jotain tyylisuuntaa jota en oo ehkä koskaan kuunnellu. Tykkäsin, siinoli fiilistä.
The 80s indie godfather strikes again.
I think hes right, it is time to put God away This gets better with every listen There's a few moments that stand out in different songs. But generally, its just good stuff There was a long instrumental period in the penultimate song that I didn't love but its fine and everything else is great Faith/void is superb
81/100. My word, this might be some of the best sounding country I have heard. The songwriting is fantastic, with a sound that feels warm, sad and unique.
I gotta be in a very specific mood for Bill Callahan, but when I am in that mood, he really does it for me.
This album got a blank stare from me when it turned up as I have never heard of Bill Callahan nor Smog and I had no idea of even what genre to expect. Well I am now becoming a fan of both. This may be my favorite discovery on the generator thus far. I deduct one star for the final track being extremely repetitive and 7 minutes too long. Otherwise the songwriting, accompaniment and unconventional singing were all a win for me.
The list said "country" but it ain't. It's more like less theatric Leonard Cohen or Nick Drake if he drank too much coffee and knew a backing band instead of settling for three chords. I didn't think I'd be into it but the more I listen the more it draws me in.
Haunting vocals and lyrics, v good.
never heard of him, but that was surprisingly pleasant - like spoken word poetry set to music
nice easy listening, I liked it more than I thought tbh
Favorite track: Jim Cane 3.5/5
virkelig aldri hørt om, men albumcoveret snakker til meg // dette er veldig min type musikk hehe. storytelling, følelser, twee. howww?!! høydepunkt: The Wind and The Dove, All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast
# Album Name: Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle # Artist: Bill Callaghan # Rating: 4/5 # Comments: Quality little album. Very Surprised by this one. I enjoyed it throughout. # Top Tunes: # Would I listen to it again? Yes
The guy from The National sings Beck Mutations. I can dig it.
Graduated from pleasant enough to enjoyably pleasant. 3.5 rounded up.
Lovely country from a very interesting man.
Always exciting, a recent album. From an artist I’d never heard of, and about whom—along with this record itself—precious little information can be found on the almighty internet. That doesn’t change the fact that this is a fine album. Not that those two things—the amount of online information and my appreciation of the music—have much to do with each other anyway. So where does this sit? Think Howe Gelb or his former band Giant Sand. Think Will Oldham, but with a sturdy baritone instead of a fragile quaver, and a little more rock, a little less country. Somewhere in that vicinity. Bill Callahan was 43 when this album came out and already on his sixteenth record. The first fourteen were released under the name Smog—though that, too, was essentially just Callahan. This second album under his own name earned him broad acclaim. And rightly so, because again: this is a strong and beautiful record. On first listen (half-distracted, watching the Games) I wasn’t particularly impressed, but with each spin the album grew. The instrumentation is restrained, yes, but the overall sound is warm, atmospheric, and beautifully recorded. Not sparse, either—there are elegant strings, and “All Thoughts Are Prey to Some Beast” features a particularly fine horn arrangement. It’s also one of the album’s tougher moments. A special mention—and, for once, a bonus point—for the lyrics goes to the closing track, “Faith/Void.” Built around the line “It’s time to put God away,” it feels like a mantra. The sentence is repeated twenty times, plus eight variations (“I put God away”), which is both excessive and somehow entirely fitting. Musically, it’s one of the high points: hypnotic, incantatory, and quietly resolute in its embrace of a life without a higher power. The encouragement prize goes to drummer Luis Martinez. His playing is extremely economical—borderline simplistic—but it works. High-level effectiveness. A fine example is the subtly syncopated beat in “Rococo Zephyr,” one of the album’s standout tracks. I have just one quibble. The filler preceding that evocative closer—the instrumental (unless you count a distorted female voice as singing) “Invocation of Ratiocination”—is entirely unnecessary. Still, I’d happily hear more from Callahan. This is a pleasant surprise, especially given how dismal most recent additions to the list have been. Bill advances to the next round.
Really beautiful, introspective, and deep album. The repetitive droning is alluring and I can't help but be pulled in. It's really, really enjoyable. I think I liked every track, except for "My Friend", which felt a little out of place. The lyrics were a little too on the nose and straightforward, and I didn't like the weird low rumbled "my friend" vocal part that he would do from time to time. Sometimes I don't love this sort of sound- see my many Nick Cave reviews.. but this album of a similar style really captured me. Callahan's voice is a perfect timbre for it. I'm giving this a 4/5 and I think it would grow more on me. I haven't had a 1001 album in a while that was totally new to me where when I got to the end I didn't want it to stop. Really good!
2000s indie folk was catnip for teen me, and honestly, this really scratched that itch. Lush, full of presence, with wonderful songwriting.
Really quite soothing and consistent throughout
This feels like the kind of object I'll only unlock further and further with each progressive listen. Found myself humming along a lot to these songs I was hearing for the first time. Bill Callahan seems to be one of those songwriters who accesses melodies that feel so obvious and immediate but new. "My Friend" is one of the best songs we've gotten so far in this project.
Went in with very minimal expectations and ended up very satisfied. Some excellent songwriting, folksy but with just a bit of edge
"Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle" has a unique perspective delivered by a singer with a unique vocal style, backed by beautiful music. It can only be - FOUR STARS
2 seconds in and I’m already chillin. It’s the smoothest of vibes, rid of all that smog angst, he’s reflecting now and it’s wonderful. The sun is shining, there’s a glint of memories from the darker before-times in his eyes, but he’s shrugged them off for now. Isn’t nature great? Isn’t being maybe a cowboy or something great? Masculine, but not in a bad way!!! And that’s important.
Never heard about the artist before, read a little about him and noticed that the only known artist that was similar to him was Lambchop. They have always been boring to me, so I had low expectations. But I must say it was a pleasant surprise! I liked the mellow style and his vocals. Like a cross between Leonard Cohen and Colter Wall. I think I liked the album as an overall experience, but I didn’t really pay attention to what songs stood out. He could have left out the second last song though - that was just weird noises.
+ kul stemme, fiiiine strings, bra lyrikk, clean prod, vet ikke med en gang hvor sangene går - er noen duds
Top 3: 1. All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast 2. Eid Ma Clack Shaw 3. Faith/Void Least Favourite: Too Many Birds Solid album, "All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast" is a fantastic song.
Great writing, songs are really well put together. Enjoyed this one
i have no idea what to expect here. soft guitar intro. loving it. OH my he has a good voice. so deep and just on the line between smooth and gravelly eid ma clack shaw--what is that title??? this is sad boy music. well balanced between vocals, piano rhythm, percussion rococo zephyr--"i used to be kinda blind... now i can sorta see" too many birds--this one is a little less melodic than the others my friend--good crescendo. "my friend" growled is a bit unnerving faith/void--i don't love this song, but i get it overall 4/5. thoroughly enjoyable, unique sound executed skillfully. his voice is incredible. some songs were outside my tastes; but would certainly listen again.
I hate talk-singing most of the time but this dude was hypnotic. Good background chill music for a stressful day
Aattelin kannen perusteella, että päästään jonkun modernin kantrin äärelle, mutta jos tää semmosta on niin ainakin on moternii. Kai tää on kuitenkin enempi jatkumoo sille leonarti kouenille kun kanttarellille. Tykkään kyllä enempi Sun Kil Moonista tän tyylisistä artisteista, mutta sitä ei varmaan näillä listoilla nähä saati kuulla. Hyvin samantyyppistä se kuiteskii on, mut ehkä ton lauluhomman suhteen enempi sävyä kuiteskii kun tässä. Tai no ohan täskin esim. My Friendissä HYVIN eksoottista mörinää. Ekalla kuuntelulla mietin, että ei saakeli kyl pysty tätä, mutta sitten ehtoolla kun salakavalasti laitoin uusiks soimaan, niin rupes se tunnelma enempi välittyyn. Että tuotaaah, kai mää tätä voisin kuunnella vapaaehtosesti uusikskin ja tulkinta hyppää sen verran yli sen puhelaulun riman, että ei mee vaan liialliseks kouenin runolausunnaks. Sit kun miettii mille kaikelle antaa kuitenkin kolkkiakin niin voihan tälle nelkin panna. Sillai kyl, että jos tää sois vaan taustalla tiettaria näpytellessä, niin todnäk aika paskat pisteet irtois ja haukut päälle että monotonista möhinää. Nyt kuitenkin kävi pilillä tuuri ja fiilistelin lisää niin heti nous pisteet. Pili siis voi olla pystypäin niinkuin pilin kuuluukin.
This was new to me and I really enjoyed it. His voice reminds me of Lou Reed.
Wow, didn't expect to see Bill Callahan on here! His output was never as good after A River Ain't Much To Love, but holy smokes did he have some gems on those Smog records. I'll be generous and give this a 4, even though I wish it were one of his earlier records.
Important voice in indie music
Langweiliger geht immer, oder? Das waren meine Gedanken am Morgen beim Start in den Tag! Am Abend dann nochmal gehört und siehe da: Es schleicht sich in die Ohren! Neuentdeckung, nicht für jede, aber für besondere Stunden!
A surprise album for me and not my usual genre of music. I liked the folk vibes and unique instrumentals and the voice had a neat quality to it.
I do love Bill Callahan, he has so many good songs, as Smog and just as solo stuff, hes such a unique and interesting songwriter and this is a great show case of his abilities. Sometimes though, i feel he tries to be too interesting, where it doesn't quite land, which is also the case here sometimes. But overall its a very good album i think. Best Track: Eid Ma Clack Shaw
Bill seems like a cool dude. I haven't listened to much Smog but I always enjoy the stuff I end up checking out.
This was fun. I like his voice and the lyrics.
I love Bill Callahan. What a wonderful poet. This was my first listen to this album, and I'm glad it was part of my day today. Classically meandering, this album is musically solid, anchored by his relaxed tambor and artful lyrics. It might not make my heavy rotation, but I appreciate it tremendously and it was a wonderful bounce back from the 1/10 album I winced through yesterday. My only criticism I have is that the author didn't select Shepherd in a Sheepskin Vest. One of my faves. 8/10
New to me. Found it to be chill and interesting. Nice guitar sounds.
Lovely alt country album.
I think I got a bit surprised listening to this album, it started with nice melody and in comes his voice .... listening to this on high volume with his voice is really something. I do like dark music, even though I didn't pay much attention to alot of the lyrics (since i am listening while working) the songs do give dark melancholic tone. I need to listen again and pay attention to each song and lyric. Overall, good album to listen to while working and also to sit down and try to digest. I need to write my favorite songs of the album here once i listen to this again. Added to my playlist
fav song from the album: my friend
Kinda hot ngl
Good album, the vocals are good despite their deadpan nature
Well this was a great find. I am still a bit confused by it but I liked it.
4/5
An artist I was completely unfamiliar with, but whose style is reminiscent of other baritone, lyrically oriented singer-songwriters like Scott Walker and Leonard Cohen. A great find, and an artist I'm now exploring more broadly (leading to the conclusion that this is not, in fact, Bill's signature album). But that aside, this is great melancholy, life affirming fair for a winter Sunday morning.
I love this. Very musical, with new ideas popping up throughout. You don’t hear many voices like his, and I thought it contributed to unique and interesting textures and colors. Raw and emotionally weighty. I thought it was cinematic in the sense that each track painted a feeling—I think it was a very effective record in that regard.
Lovely whisper of country twang, loved it 4
Good craic
i could never hate an album like this, something that feels like a true passion project, so for that i really respect it. it helps that it’s also really pretty most of the time
Hey! Another one I used to listen to constantly and then forgot existed!
Talk-singing folk indie. (Too many nouns as adjectives, I know, but it is what it is. 😉) For this “genre”, I generally like Mt. Eerie more than Callahan, but both are similarly engaging in some spots, dull in others.
I enjoy his voice, the relaxed delivery, and the variety of this album. It's not an immediate love, but I'm giving it a 4 because I'm certain that after a few listens I'd really appreciate the lyrics too.
This feels like a mix between LCD Soundsystem and Johnny Cash. And I think I like that?
He has a strange delivery for such a pleasant voice; the lyrics are out there too. Maybe it reminds me a bit of Leonard Cohen? Very wistful. Favorite tracks were ‘Eid Ma Clack Shaw’ and ‘Too Many Birds’.
Liked this more than I expected to! I really dig his voice. And there was a thread of silliness throughout that balanced the melancholy. Favorite track was My Friend.
Love all things Bill Callahan.
This was unexpected (I hadn't heard of him). A very interesting collection of songs in a free-form sort of musical style; very melodic and with poetic (deep!) lyrics. It will need more than one listen, I think. I found it intriguing, and I enjoyed some musical passages very much. I currently have no idea which of my playlists I would add any of these songs to, but I intend to contemplate that further. Maybe it just needs to be considered as an album. I get the Nick Cave comparison, but this is sung, deliberately, in a much more low-key way. There's power in the words, though. I enjoyed it; pleasing sounds, and much to contemplate. It also sounds like he's been doing all sorts of interesting and different things for years, so I'm glad I've heard of him now.
New to me. Really liked it
Would it be surprising to say that I thought I was listening to Nick Drake? Bill Callahan has that nostalgic tone and eerie vibe, too. I mean, the guy even included a some kind of summoning in the middle of the album. Faith/Void is a folk epic track that kept me hypnotized the entire 10 minutes. Great album.
Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle feels like an album built from stillness, the kind where every note sits exactly where it needs to so the whole thing can breathe. Callahan’s voice has that low, steady calm that makes even the smallest lines feel weighted, and the arrangements around him are deceptively beautiful. The strings, the slow unfurling melodies, the measured pacing, all of it gives the album this quiet, expansive atmosphere that sinks in gradually rather than knocking you over. What makes it so compelling is how controlled it all is. The songs move at their own pace, never rushed, never overly decorated, but always purposeful. “Jim Cain,” “Rococo Zephyr,” and “Eid Ma Clack Shaw” in particular stand out because they balance simplicity with something oddly mystical, like Callahan is revealing thoughts he has spent years refining into single sentences. The writing is sharp without calling attention to itself, and the emotional weight comes from the way he phrases things rather than big dramatic moments. If there is any criticism, it is only that the album’s unhurried nature means a few tracks blur together, especially on a first listen. It is not a record built for instant impact. You have to sit with it, let it spool out, let the details find you. But when they do, the reward is big. Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle is understated, beautifully crafted, and quietly powerful, the kind of album that grows in meaning each time you return to it.
This is my first album of the 1001 on this website and I laughed out loud when I saw it. This is a great album and I listened it a lot last year to the disdain of my girlfriend. We talk about it so much that it has become a running joke in our relationship. Bill Callahan is truly great and under-appreciated. He reminds me of a mix of Brian Eno, Nick Cave, and Nick Drake.
I like this album. I'm not usually into talking-style singing, but this one is just melodic enough. Plus he uses some symphonic sounds in the background, which I always like. My favorite tracks are: Faith/Void, Jim Cain, and the very odd Eid Ma Clack Shaw.
Almost rated this a 5, but realized I was probably getting out over my skis because I was excited the list recommended something new I was excited about. Callahan has that almost spoken word style that reminds me or Reed or Cohen, but more country and more atmospheric. He also reminds me a bit of a less jokey version of John Lurie, in his Marvin Pontiac mode. Regardless, into it!
Just really enjoyed this. I've always liked Smog, especially love where Bill Callahan has shown up in collaboration with Joanna Newsom & Will Oldham, and just dig this whole baritone, dark folk-tale vibe. I somehow hadn't given this album an intentional listen & added multiple tracks to playlists.
he has a deep voice
Liked this a lot. Interesting to read about his lo-fi background which I might dig into. Reminded me of Giant Sand a lot, Father John Misty slightly. His voice was perfectly cromulent, but unusual in that we don't hear a lot of baritones in pop music
Jim Cain - 8/10. Very relaxing and smooth. Almost more lilting prose than lyrical. Eid Ma Clack Shaw - 8/10. Smooth and very pleasant. The Wind and the Dove - 8/10. Feels almost like Psychadelic Country. Very interesting. Rococo Zephyr - 7/10. Relaxing, almost fades into the background, but well done. Too Many Birds - 6/10. Feels a little more forced than the others. My Friend - 8/10. I like this track. All Thoughts Are Prey to Some Beast - 6/10. Interesting metaphors. There's a fine line between deep and pretentious, and this goes back and forth over it. Invocation of Ratiocination - 5/10. Just weird. Faith/Void - 8/10. Smooth and simple, not the message I would expect from this style of music, either. I like this one. Overall Rating - 3.56/5 (7.11/10). A very different sound, and very pleasing to my ears.
Great baritone voice. Good record. Pitchfork: 8.1 Rolling Stone: n/a Best Songs Jim Cain Eid Ma Clack Shaw The Wind and The Dove Too Many Birds Faith/Void
Gear: Moondrop Variations Artwork: 🐎🏕️🌲 Production: 🎧😘🤌 Music: 🐻🧣🍂 Rating: 🦅🦅🦅🦅(🦅)/5
4 sterne
Je pense que j’ai aimé cet album. La voix du chanteur me semblait trop détachée du reste de la musique, comme si le band était derrière lui et n’était là que pour l’accompagner, plutôt que d’être un tout. Mais, sinon, les chansons étaient bonnes, pas trop country, l’ambiance était tranquille, mais plaisante.
Interesting voice and album
This was the first Bill Callahan. Eid Ma Clack Shaw was the first track of his I heard and remains my favourite. His voice adds a warm rich tone to what are great lyrics. The instrumentation also perfectly complements this and whilst I can understand that this style wont be for everyone, in the same way as someone like Dylan i think the sum of the whole is great enough to overcome any issues with any technical criticism of his vocals (although i would slso say any criticism is unjust)
Beauty of a baritone, singing sad songs in kind of a hi-fi folk. Not my jam but I totally understand.
Never heard of him but I loved this album. Great voice and deep songs. The lyrics are amazing and work with his voice perfectly
Surprising 4
Lovely songwriting here. I happily listened twice.
This felt like a nice winter album - soft folky instrumentation and some ideas that repeat in a comforting trance. Not reinventing the wheel but doesn’t need to really - can see how you might need to be in the right mood for this but it hit right on my listen.
Loved this album
3.5/5
There’s a relaxing Bob Ross quality to this one.
This was a really nice album! Not 5 star worthy but decent enough 4 ⭐️
BC is one of those artists that has demonstrated the value and pay off of one's commitment to continually seek new music. One found him late (probably from algo-reco based on lots of Red House Painters listening) and felt immediately spoken to, understood, drawn in and gravitating toward. Then realized one knew Smog (a bit) and so ... it's all likably strange, rich and moody, literary and spiritual; warm, empathetic and humane, too – right up one's alley. "Jim Cain" and "Faith/Void" are an extraordinarily strong opener-closer combo.
Sometimes I get really annoyed by "sing-talking," but something about the lyricism here makes it less obnoxious and more honest. Simple.
I really cringed when I saw that this was labeled as a country album. How many more do I need to suffer through? But I was very pleasantly surprised by the music. It was described elsewhere as "Doom Country" which still doesn't quite feel right but it definitely makes it sound more interesting. The best description I can think of for this music is bleak folk set against large orchestral strings. I really enjoyed the effect of this one. I absolutely would not lump it in with the ultra conservative honky tonk Nashville establishment. This is something much more special.
Enjoyable enough but I probably didn’t need to hear this before I died.
Love me some Smog/Bill Callahan. When I go to a concert I try to be the person having the most fun so despite Bill not having the most danceable music, I was non-stop moving when I saw him in Philly. After the show ended at least 4 people said, “Boy, you were having a good time!” Got my dad into “Jim Cain” as the first song on a mixed CD I made for him to listen to in his car. He loved it but I don’t think he went far past the first coupla songs.
This is a very pleasant album. I've never heard of this person or heard their music before but it was an enjoyable listen. It's a bit slow for my taste but glad to have heard it. I could see myself listening to this when I want something super chill.
I like it
It's what I want Tom Waits/Leonard Cohen to sound like. You know, like if they actually gave half a sh*t about the vocal part. I digress, glad to finally have met this interesting soul. Gots some Devotchka feels in there too, which I liked.
Wasn’t aware of this guy but enjoyed the record
There's nothing particularly flashy or fancy about this album, but its vibes are huge all the way through. The way Callahan's musical, but understated vocals meld with the instrumentation creates a unique sound that I imagine would be very hard for any artist to try and replicate. Most of the songs are hypnotic in their repetition, although there are times where it can border on redundant. All in all, I expect this will be something I revisit from time to time when I need to throw something soothing on.
This was a surprising 4/5 for me. Never heard of this artist, nor was I familiar with any of his band's (Smog) output. It was weird and trippy and entrancing.
Very peaceful, a bit Nick Cave.
An interesting listen, for sure. At times Willie Nelson and at times a middle-aged dad going through a midlife crisis who decided to turn his poetry hobby into an album. At least it's good poetry, though. These are the sorts of albums that I'm going to struggle with for this exercise. I'm thinking three, but if I spent more time with it, I feel I might move my rating to a four . . . or a two. Regardless, it's refreshing to hear something that sounds so unique. For that, and in the spirit of "needing to hear," what the heck ... I'll just just go four.
So I think I’ve listened to this album probably twice, three times now after today and I’m now realising that this might be one of the most beautiful sounding albums I’ve listened to. jim cain is a heartbreaking song, it’s so beautifully intimate and feels so private, the wind and the dove is another highlight of the album for me, feels like walking through a ghost town. I think another reason this album feels so gut wrenchingly traumatic is bills voice, he’s speaking, he’s singing, he’s borderline rambling but it adds a layer of humanity to the whole album. an album ive probably overlooked greatly 4.3/5 FTW Another blind album and looking at the cover I'm expecting country or just calm good vibes so let's have a go. Okay I really didn't know what to expect with this album and it did not disappoint in the slightest. The album seems to balance simplicity and complexity incredibly well both musically and lyrically. From the lyrics of the opening track flowing you with talks of introspection, about personal progression to Eid Ma Clack Shaw which at one point he just starts talking bollocks but it's beautiful bollocks. This album feels very personal, with Bill occasionally just sounding like he's almost talking to himself, exploring the themes of loss, love, even faith and personal growth in a beautiful fashion. This album took me by suprise honestly, I was quite taken back by the how well put together it all was and how much the first track especially rocked me. Will happily give this another listen and may even learn a track or two. 4/5 MTW What a nice way to spend an early evening on a Tuesday. I'd even be sound hanging outside with them horse lads on the album cover as it's a lovely day. And that's one way to sum this record up - lovely. Anything with nicely worked-in non-overbearing strings is a big tick in my box. Love that shit. Jim Cain and Too Many Birds are standouts - emotional in two very different ways but keeping a signature which Bill C maintains thorughout the record (personal, open, raw at times) while remaining inviting and comforting. My Friend is another gorgeous tune and these are the three tracks I'll probably come back to. While there are no skips per se, I did find myself plodding through a couple where the music was a little more routine and for want of a better term robotic - but not in a bad way. Closes on a long boy which I am a fan of - if you're gonna put long tunes on a record you're either bold and class or just an arsehole. Bold on Bill's part, nice one. 3.5/5 JF
Really liked it. His voice may not be for everyone but he's a great storyteller. 4/5
Really cool singer songwriter vibe. I feel like this album was kinda like Bruce Cockburn and Jim Croce vibes.
Nada mal, muy bien logrado. Me llevo un tema pamis listas. Tiene un arte especial y eso que nada que ver conmigo. Nota: 3.8
This was a really cool album! His low voice and the variety of styles kept me engaged the whole time.
Such a great album.
Nice
Off the cuff remark: for a long time Smog and Bill Callahan went under my radar then I heard the marvellous Vessel in Vain on the awesome film Dead Mans Shoes. I've been hooked ever since. Often oblique, understated and quietly mesmerising thus album ticks all those boxes. Standout track: Too Many Birds and the odd Eid Ma Clack Shaw Revisit?: undoubtedly
Really great. Never heard of this but will be buying it now. Best album on my list so far.
It's a very lyrical album with the vocal melody mostly supplied via a sleepy monologue. Most of the appeal otherwise comes from the rococo finery of the ornamental instrumental passages. It it has the feel of a slow burning movie with little or no dialogue. Where the only spoken bits are the thoughts of the protagonist. Taken on its own terms, it's a pleasant listen, as long you don't doze off (I mean this in the nicest possible way).
I thought that the melancholy monotone would annoy me but it let the lyrics shine. Great album, exactly the sort of thing I'd hoped to discover through this list
Didn't expect to enjoy an album like this one, was a pleasant listen. Rococo zephyr, eid ma clack shaw and too many birds were my faves.
New to me and I really like it!
Soft, warm album, should be perfect for a background listen. I think it really achieves what it set out to do. Just not sure if it's all that *great*, to be on this list.
Interesting, haunting, enjoyable
Great laid back Americana album. Definite soundtrack music but very lush. Even if his voice is more appealing then singing
Listened to this while playing Voidfall. I lost pretty hard. I actually really enjoyed Bill Callahan...America...oh wait, not that album. It's weird rating this album a 4 after I just gave a Beatles album a 4 as well. The album title makes me think of my mom...she watches eagles on a Webcam pretty often.
He has a very calm and chill voice. It was a soothing listen.
Poetic.. dreamy.. interesting
What a curious album, one that can be slightly challenging yet radiates warmth. Favourite songs first time through were Eid Ma Clack Shaw, Too Many Birds and All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast, but that could change on another listen. I was gonna give a 3, but writing this now while the last track plays, I'm giving it a 4.
Greatest contrast between album cover and track quality we've ever witnessed. Good work Maryland John Mayer. Fav tracks: The Wind and The Dove, All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast
I liked this one! It felt simple, yet larger than life at the same time.
First country album I really liked, probably because it's sort of post-country
I've heard a bit of Smog before but not much of his later stuff. It started off and sounded a bit like a stripped down Lambchop but I gradually enjoyed it more as I got into it and the last few tracks are particularly strong.
3.5 I like bill callahan but wouldn’t choose this album for this list
There's something strangely mesmerizing about Callahan's songwriting here. There is so much nuanced production happening, but the end result feels entirely raw and authentic. The upfront, deep timbre, speaking-as-much-as-singing approach sitting atop emotional folk instrumentation presents a unique approach to what might otherwise be familiar or forgettable tunes.
I have a newfound appreciation for eagles as a recent transplant to the PNW, and I’ve long held a deep appreciation for Bill Callahan’s conversational storytelling and sparse profundity.
This grew on me quickly. Really unique sound that evokes early America, nods to past country greats, and yet sounds fresh. Songs have some real weight and force to them. Lots of animal mentions. Winner.
ég á í örlitlum vandræðum með sóða bill. er mjög tilgerðarleg músík en þrátt fyrir það finnst mér þetta yfirleitt mjög gott. 4.
Really strong song writing on this one. Don’t know how often I’ll come back for casual listening, but I reckon I’ll be in the mood to listen to this bad boy all the way through.
A soft 4 - Not bad, but not a super compelling album. The instrumentals were great. Vocals were hit or miss for me.
great voice, resonant songs with lyrics full of ideas and poetic snippets
Good!
10/1001 Bill Callaghan - Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle Heard before? ✅ Revisit? ✅ I only discovered Bill Callaghan in the last year to two years and this was the first I'd listened to of his solo stuff and Smog's. It's categorised as country, but fuses so many other influences into this to great effect. The baritone/almost spoken word aspect of it fuses so well with the sumptuous arrangements. Lyrically, there's a philosophical quality that sometimes verges on gloom and despair. There's experimentation here and whilst not all of it works, it predominantly does. Great stuff.
It's a beautiful, delicate and intimate record. Musically, I loved how stripped down the arrangements are, they leave a lot of room for Callahan's deep, expressive voice, which drives the songs. I also loved the string parts, they are absolutely gorgeous. Callahan's writing for me was the highlight of the album. It feels poetic, clever and personal, and some moments are very touching. Most songs are very good, the odd one out is "Invocation of Ratiocination" which is pretty short and weird, but I feel like it plays a role in the album in complementing the sound palette. "Eid Ma Clack Shaw" is super funny and it's a great song. "Rococo Zephyr" is melancholic and beautifully written. His raspy singing in "My Friend" is also excellent. "All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast" is conceptually very interesting, the strings are very pretty, and it's overall an excellent song. For me this is a 9, and I'm torn between 4 and 5. For the slow, intimate vibe and compared to other Folk records, it feels a clear 5 star. But as an overall album, it isn't such an easy listen or so accessible, nor it has catchy hits. I'll give it 4 for now and think about it for a week or so.
His voice reminds me of the singer from the Silver Jews. The instrumentation is wonderful.
The darkness of Nick Drake and the voice of William Prince. This was a gem that I’ve never listened to before.
Hypnotic and lyrically both complex and simple. Loved it and will seek out more of his stuff.
Es esch huere schwerig das albom z bewärte. Einersiits fendi dass es huere schön esch. Sini sanfti stemm met de geile instromänt wo so guet passed dezue. E wiitere guete ponkt esch de Ufbau vo de einzelne Songs. Es chond emmer weder es elemänt dezue oder god wäg ond zwar so, dass es ned so vorussehbar esch aber trotzdem no guet. Dör das bliibts au spannend. E wiitere Ponkt esch, dasi chuum cha säge, weles Lied us dem Albom mis Lieblingslied esch. Es esch also ned eis wo velecht eis oder zwöi gueti hed, de räscht aber alli gliich töned ond ned wörk guet send. Trotzdem hani au Kritik. För mech esches secher fascht e chli sehr Sad. Do cha de Bill Callahan ned vel deför, es esch eifach ned so mini Musig. Öppis anders wommer cha kritisiere esch, dass mer kes Lied wörklech ufgfalle esch im Senn vo ah esch no es geils Lied. Wenns no so es highlight gäbt, wärs Albom nomol düdlech besser.
Perfect!
taiteilija puhuva mies sanantoisto riimejä huhhuh
This is an excellent album. It kinda runs it's course 3/4 of the way through but still, every time I come back to this album I'm overwhelmed.
That was surprisingly good - I thought it was going to get tedious very quickly but I found it mesmerising.
Faen meg behagelig
quiet and humble sounding. reminds me of lou reed.
me when my hb and i are trying to come up with our new fursonas i like this a lot. personally i fw the vocals a lot it his voice is very soothing, this was a very pleasant listen.
really soft, almost dreamy country music. it's very slow, steady, and beautifully haunting. a new face of country i've never experienced til now. this album is elegant, sometimes leans into folk or maybe even baroque pop. strange, puzzling, introspective. it's the perfect album for listening to on those late dreary nights. this album sounds like a long exhale.
Melancholy
I thought it wasn't really a standout so I was going to give it three stars but then My Friend, All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast and Invocation of Ratiocination were something different so that bumps it up a star.
I loved it. I can see why Joanna collaborates with him. His voice is dynamic and whimsical in an unexpected way. His songwriting is extraordinary! Standout Track: “The Wind and the Dove”
Honestly love the vocal, narrative style. I already had a few of these tracks on some playlists, which has been uncommon for this 1001 Albums journey. It's not my favorite style of music, but the stripped down soundscape with compelling vocals feels like the best of Johnny Cash with a more modern, indie instrumentation. Here for it.
Interesting album.
I found the music hypnotic. I done disagree with those who find the vocals at odds with the instrumentation. But I locked into this oddity fairly quickly and was along for the ride. 4/5