Reviews (page 12 of 16)
Nautinnollista nykyfolkkia. Uudempi Stevens on mulle vähän siinä ja tässä, mut tää oli kyl hyvä. 4/5
Ok
One of my all time favorites. I've only listened to this album about 100 times. 5/5 Sometimes I'll look at the reviews on here before posting my own just to see what some of you think. I'm always surprised to see 1's on albums that I absolutely love so I'll check out their profile and see that one of their highest rated albums is kid rock without fail. Then it all makes sense.
Really liked this.
Very relaxing music but still very engaging
Kinda like Cold Play
Certified Sufjan classic
This is why i like 1001
I haven't listened to this in 9 years. Really lush poppy music with emotion. There's a lot of earwormy parts of this album too which is a weakness for me. Probably a masterpiece. A
I don't know why, but I had the mistaken impression that Sufjan Stevens put out "romantic" bubble gum pap. I was really wrong. This is really good. Very very interesting song titles (e.g., "The Black Hawk War, or, How to Demolish an Entire Civilization and Still Feel Good About Yourself in the Morning, or, We Apologize for the Inconvenience but You're Going to Have to Leave Now, or, 'I Have Fought the Big Knives and Will Continue to Fight Them Until They Are Off Our Lands!'") There's a lot of complicated things going on here. And a significant amount of creepiness. Oddly and inexplicably, I am experiencing a sense of dread. This is not background music. It requires that you devote an hour and 14 minutes to paying attention. Is it a symphony? The Sergeant Pepper of the 2000s? Although I don't particularly LOVE every song, I enjoyed the listening experience very much. There's just so much going on (did I already say that?). Vocals (lead and background), instrumentation, everything together... very nice. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ __________________________________ 🎧 LPs reviewed: 40 🎧 LPs left to review: 961 🎧 LPs I found great/relevant enough to be mandatory listens (5): 10 🎧 LPs I *might* include in my own list (4): 14 🎧 LPs I will certainly *not* include in mine (1-2): 10
Bold and beautiful compositions paired with some high school level songwriting. Worth the listen and engaging but I don't think I'll be adding this to my rotation. 7/10
It goes on for a bit too long but overall its very enjoyable
Love Sufjan. Great album
Very odd and complex but definitely an interesting listen
It started off so promising with the opening tracks, but I'm sad to say it fell off and I ended up bored by the end. There's lots to appreciate here - the big concept album approach, tons of varied instruments, lots of interesting songs, good lyrics. It's way too long for me though. The songs are all quite soft, and touching on the twee for some of them, and it's just too much. There's still some good tracks throughout, but it mostly feels like one big gentle thing.
Overall enjoyed good vocals and Songwriting. Light 7
All over the place, but quite a good time.
amazing album and now there's a musical in chicago. way to go.
Omituista lausuntamusiikkia, jonka kaikilla kappaleilla miljoonia kuunteluita Spotifyissa. En oikein ymmärrä. Loppulevystä tuntui kuitenkin jo ihan jammailtavalta.
i think this is an amazing album.
Was very apprehensive at first after seeing the title and cover and reading the wiki synopsis, but I was very impressed with the lyrics and instrumentals. Might be something I delve into again at some point and will probably check out more of Stevens' work. Although I only added one song, I have to give this a 4/5.
Immediately reminds me of Flaming Lips, but better in general I think. Wide variety of music, and a shocking breadth of lyrics.
Fun album, almost whimsical at times. Album grew on me as the it progressed. Immediately replayed it. 4 stars.
Why do I think this will have a Dion vibe, which would be a disaster, I hope the best, because the album cover is veery weird, but unique too. First song, apparently it's baroque pop, one of my favourite genress. It's slow with a piano and another instrument playing (flute thingy). Background voices are in the song too. Well umm it was too short to rate it, but I'd say 7.9/10 since it was melancholic and the I love piano. Second song, it's instrumental? Much better with the headphones on, different instruments are playing, trombone and some nature like sound thingy(flute maybe) in the left ear. It was epicore vibed and had a classicalness into it. Liked it quite a lot. 8.2/10, I don't even need lyrics at this point. Third song, what fun beat, it's looping, he has a Rufus-like voice. The production is amazing, women joined in and they sing fast. Trombone came in, different version of piano in the right ear. It's so satisfying, the whole vibe and the way melodies flow in such a fun way. I'm deeply amazed. The instrumental break is tbh same just within lyrics. Only piano now with some instrument's riffle sound. Flute thingy in the left ear slightly. Glitchy sounds now, might be electric piano. The jazzy part is as well magnificent. I repeat production is undeniably perfect. I'm feeling so many emotions now, it's sad, but the beat and the instruments are fun in a downtempo way still. It's getting to the end while instruments are less loud. The women's voices is a cappella almost and I love it. It was 10/10 song, definitelyyy loved every second. 4th song, this is sadder, and with a piano. His voice is right in the middle I love that. Idk if I said, but the names are so interesting, they suggest good lyrics too already. There is faint woman voice in the right ear. Guitar is in play now. It's about John Wayne's crimes I suppose. Definitely Rufus Wainwright vibes again, but obviously with differences. Because this was slow Imma rate if 9.5/10. 5th song, violinsss, and piano now, weird guitar like sound in the right ear, but the main guitar is in the middle(one of them sounds like banjo). It's not particularly sad, but not upbeat either. The voice echo effect(not exactly tho) he does that greatt. Trombone came in(I'm not good with instrument names btw). This is not as great as the other ones, but I'm getting it. It's permanent wave in the best possible way. it ended repeating the same lines I think. Not as good as I've said so 8.5/10. 6th song, oop it's an interlude, violins I hear. And that's itt. Not even a transition to the 7th song, but that's okay I guess. This one has a banjo again I thinkk. Two voices I hear. The beat is normal, nothing unique yet. BTW his voice is soft and great to listen to. What are these names, they are sooo much different from what I've seen on other albums ever. He sings a little and then that guitar-like instrument is the main attraction(though it's always playing). This didn't stand out I'd say 7.5/10. Oops clapping sounds I missed, and instrument was breathing.( Just checked and this was another song soo 8th song this one is) 9th song, of monsters and men like violin and best use. Got slow and he started singing. I love full songs and this is one of them. Women sings the chorus. I will definitely check his other albums, so many of them, goood. It was loud and got slow suddenly with him starting singing after the break. Long the songs are btw. Choir like sound I hear. The champer popness is feeling here as well. Outro is chill and choiry. I'd say 9.8/10, the instrumental break was Unforgettable and veeery baroque pop, arcade fire-ed. 10th song, loving the start, it's relaxing and the way he sings is enjoyable. Weird instrument came in. Constant beat is by the guitar. Oh, I hear banjo again. It's monotonous, which is not my vibe, but it's Sufjan so I can take it. Little trombone joined. It's instrumental break with a woman's voice, loving itt. 8.9/10 seems fair. 11th song, what a piano start. It's a short song tho. So beautiful. The instruments are totally with eachother. It's ordered chaos. Well not as amazing so 7.9/10. 12th song, um hello punk rock?! Nevermind it's piano mostly now. Why did it start so metal-y. Choir joined. He finished singing the soft and relaxing one, AND PUNK BEGAN AGAIN, FEELS LIKE TWO SONGS AS ONE. Little trombone joined in the right ear. Exactly same happened, soft voice to punk and choir singing while punk, just to say it is so unique in many ways. Vibe is fully different now, it's slow and more acoustic than ever. Oh, I hear the rising choir voice, it came and stopped for a veeeery short time then perfectly transitioned into the(9.7/10) 13th song, I love this. It has a familiar notes taken. Choir is the main attraction, Sufjan sang a little too. Christmassy vibe now. And it ended differently too, 14th song is an interlude so both of them were a solid 8/10. 15th song, good transition again. It's slow and melancholic now. MY GOODNESS WHAT IS THIS INSTRUMENTAL BREAK I'M FLYING. The verses are fins, not basic, however, not different either. Trombone break again, more emotional though. WOW THE BEAT DROP AND WOMEN VOICE CAME IN, UNEXPECTED. Even more arcade fire vibes. It's progressing, getting louder and more chaotic. Chaos stopped and he sings, left ear I hear a woman. This is a masterpieceee. 10/10 alreadyy. Outro is interlude-y, and has this loud thing going on. 16th song, last song stopped quickly and this one's beat came in. It's so chill and so funn. The violin, I'm so happy what is this, it's so perfect. Woman singing, I think she's pronouncing something, Sufjan joined, but no as main, now he did. Guitar is in the right ear. I repeat the start instrumentals were unexplainably amazing. I love the woman's part. It's chaotic with three voices all together, like what an adventure. 10/10 againn, couldn't have been better than this, plus the name is immaculate. 17th song, violin start oops it's an interlude. Well it's not bad. Umm pardon? Another interlude into the 18th song, there was a transition too, this one's choiry, it ended weirdly, but it transitioned into the next song perfectly. 19th song, it was a piano start, and it's still going just with him singing. It's very satisfying, especially the choir slightly existing in it. Oh it changed the way of singing, it's more full because there is woman in the right and man in the left ear singing along. Back to original alone, soft singing now. Outro is expected, it's with little "ooh"s. I'd say 7.9/10 it didn't give the vibe. 20th song, clapping fun start, trombone, I hear constant beat in the left ear too. 7 fucking minutes? And I feel like there's no lyrics. Well I do am liking the instruments. Oops lyrics came in. Production as good as possible. Women came in they are more upbeat and choiry, they have a musical vibe. I feel blessed. It got slow, and it's the best part in the song, the trombone is beating whole he's singing in the best way with the violins. Clap-clap. SUCH CHAOS. Drum sounds I heard. Cute piano solo, clap-clap, violins. Trombone, gibberish singing along. Oh, it stopped fully, it's totally slow now. Beats increased and downtempoed instantly. Sufjan and the woman are singing together softly, with the not upbeat version of instruments. It's getting progressive I think. YESS IT'S SO MUCH BETTER NOW, MORE FULL. This was just too good 10/10, didn't even notice it was 7 minutes. 21th song, it's interlude and I love it, the trombone is breathing fast, especially in the right ear, both ears experience the same sounds one after the other. 22th song, progressive start. NOO IT'S THE LAST SONG, I'M HAVING SO MUCH FUN THOUGH. I hear piano mainly and some constant beat by unknown instruments to me. As I said it'd getting progressive, louder too. No lyrics for this one I think. Feels like a happy movie ending sound, and it technically is an ending to a beautiful journey. Idk the instruments, but they are eating itt. Because of no lyrics Imma say 9/10. It stopped with a soft note. OBVIOUSLY 5 STARS, HANDS DOWN ONE OF THE BEST ALBUMS HERE. I didn't expect this goodness from this, I'm honestly in shock, and 22 songs went on like little 5 songs, it was so good. I will definitely check more of his albums.
it can be hard to know where to draw the line on dark subjects in art. I feel comfortable saying that using John Wayne Gacy's sexual assaults & murders for a sad boy folk song is completely tasteless. there's ways to show empathy for the grotesque and this ain't it. this album condenses down a lot of things I hated about being part of my generation at college age. in Ulysses there's a bit where the young Joyce stand-in viciously rips on his younger self for having an idea as dumb and pretentious as writing books with letters for titles. it's a perfect little summary of the youthful arrogance of imaging the praise you'll get for completed works for which you have no content, & one of the great things about art is that you can experience this vicariously without having to be such a twit. hearing that this stuff was 'genius' was right about when I stopped believing my generation was going to be any emotionally stunted than the boomers/Gen Xers we were supposedly learning from the mistakes of. it's the sound of ironic moustaches becoming an unironic(?) norm. it's feminism getting cool but relationship norms staying the same, men with ironic(?) moustaches expecting their girlfriends to take care of them, imagining praise for work that got halfway through coming up with titles. music: hated. (⌐■_■)
I rolled my eyes when this came up but then I chastised the inner millennial crank and gave it an honest listen. It is very sappy and overwrought, but also it’s very good. Better than most of his peers who were similarly trying to be Composers instead of just Rock Guys. There’s a lot going on, it’s a bit too long, but everything works and it justifies itself overall.
I love it. The creativity of the titles. Very chill listen. Loved it a lot. Found a new comfort album
"Illinois" by Sufjan Stevens weaves intricate narratives with diverse instrumentation, capturing the essence of the state in a musical odyssey.
I mean... it's alright. Experimental, but indie.
Really cool concept album. Mix of indie rock with impressive orchestral arrangements throughout. Also has the longest song titles of any album I’ve ever seen.
Pretty okay, I guess. It's of its time.
Very interesting. Almost feel like I can describe it as an upscale home production of a musical soundtrack. I was surprised how much I enjoyed it
I didn’t get it at all. I kept waiting for some sort of awakening in the album. Something I could grab on to. But it was more of the same time and again. The songs are boring and lack any type of hook that would remotely qualify as exciting. I’m not giving it a one simply because I felt the artist at least made an attempt at laying down some decent lyrics at times.
It's quite nice and musically very accomplished, but too twee for me.
Sufjan Stevens is an Ed Hardy wearing fuck. That being said Illinoise deserves its' acclaim. It is an artistically crafted album that, in its' complexity, is able to conjure up real emotion. It's rich and lush, it's vulnerable, it's unsure of how or what it is and it makes it feel real
Hard to classify -- sort of easy listening pop. I had never heard Sufjan Stevens before and didn't know what to expect. Very pretty, soothing sound with a lot of strings and choral arrangements, giving it a Broadway musical feel. I liked a couple of the songs (Jacksonville in particular) but the melodies and tone were pretty consistent throughout with the lyrics mostly differentiating the songs. OK -- not going to be a regular listen.
One of the best ever
I've never been to Illinois in my life, but after listening to this album...I still have no idea what Illinois is about, but at least I have experienced a great record. Usually music categorised as baroque pop is very low on my list of favourite genres, but Sufjan Stevens' music has to be an exception. Honestly, even few of the 20 seconds songs are amazing. I love the instrumental parts, which may slightly overuse banjo, but Sufjan's vocal is also very good and a highlight of the album. Also, it's not often that a record starts strong, but only gets better later, so another point for SS. I'm looking for LP straight away.
Slow and long some good parts
I've always absolutely loved this record. Between Sufjan's beautiful, subdued vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and the simply gorgeous instrumentation, this really is a 10/10 record for me. Special shout-out to the ridiculously long track titles. Favourite tracks: all of them. It's a coherent piece of art that should be listened to as a whole.
I only had a minor knowledge of Stevens due to his Michigan album from the early 2000s. I was glad to come across this album as it made me interested in hearing more of this singer-songwriter. Jake has been a big fan of his for years and I can see why. Only a talented songster can make a song about John Wayne Gacy sound calm and introspective.
Sufjan is one of my all-time favorite songwriters of this generation. I think he would be up there as one of the best, but his catalog is so big. Also being a Michigan-born dude, he holds a special place in my heart. Seven Swans got me into Sufjan but Illinois was my favorite early album from him. AND Javelin's release this year was another top-5 album of the year for me. This album is so full of beautiful songs and poetry. The guitar work, the lyrics, and the musicianship, are all flawless.
I have heard many songs on this and owned this album in the past. I remember liking a previous album of his and listened to it repeatedly (Seven Swans), but this one never stuck. Musically, it’s well done and yes the lyrics are “smart” but listening to it this time i just found it disturbing (the Gacy song) and…I just could not get through the whole album. Another one I can appreciate but don’t really like.
Funny sometimes
This music elicited an emotional response. That’s something powerful. The production value is incredible. Such an impressive melding of instruments and vocals that weave in and out exceptionally, peaking and dipping in a jazz formation where they do not battle each, but instead allow the other to flourish. The singing can be soft at times, but it’s never boring, always beautiful. The concept aspect is fun, the titles are silly, and the filler songs are unique flows that have their own cosmic flair. Truly a beautiful album on the first listen.
Interesting album. Lots going on in it
The 50 albums for 50 states idea still tickles me 😂 fine but now for me really
Did not expect much going in, but it was an interesting listen.
me he quitao los auriculares y no me he enterao pero pianito chill, no me enamora pero dins de lo que es no ta mal
Tranquilo pero muy aburrido
Solid album with a few standout tracks. A little soft for my liking but definitely worth a listen.
Soft
I found this interesting. I recognized a track or two. This is a classic problem with the five star system. I don't know if it reaches a four. It's definitely not a five. If I give it a three, it might get lost in the shuffle. Hm. On second listen the songs are all pretty similar to one another.
Sufjan Stevens can sometimes be a little hit-or-miss for me some of his albums can feel a little too out-there, even for me — one of the biggest fans of weird-ass weirdo shit but many of his albums are the perfect blend of weird and accessible, and this is probably one of the best examples of that a perfect 10/10 in my eyes I can’t decide which song is my favorite probably The Tallest Man, The Broadest Shoulders just because I can’t get that absolutely legendary 11/8 flow out of my head it moves as an interchanging flow of 5/8 then 6/8, then 5/8 back to 6/8 and that sounds weird, but it’s so goddam catchy for this pretentious prog-rock/math-rock nerd
Did not enjoy
The soaring melodies create an ethereal experience. There's a sweet charm reminiscent of Charlie Brown, adding a nostalgic touch that feels like a comforting embrace. Listening to this album is like having breakfast in Downtown Camper in Stockholm – it's a moment frozen in time, triggering vivid memories. I can't help but feel a bit silly for waiting so long to discover this masterpiece. The emotional resonance and beauty of Illinois make it a personal treasure, and I can't recommend it enough. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 13 STAND OUT TRACK - Come on Feel the Illinoise
Always known I should dig into Sufjan, this album is always recommended as the jump off point. Have really enjoyed listening to it to be honest, really nice production and music Giving it a 5 cos I want to listen to it again and again
Technically stellar and endearingly folksy. Require a particular mood though, because it's slow, soft, and wants your full attention. Not for me, but I respect it a lot.
Perfect. Beautiful. Important.
The jury's in two minds, sitting on the fence, smoking a cigarillo, all done up like a Michelangelo pastiche by Wed Anderson. First listen made me the most boring person in the world according to my former English teacher, as only boring people get bored and this bored me to smithereens. I was in the wrong mood. All but the mildest suggestion of jauntiness in music's can provoke the inner snarler, and this is liberally sprinkled with the dicey stuff, vacuum-sealed in po-mo, another of my triggers. This is clearly clever, eloquent, crafted with distinctive instrumentation fitted to song-shapes that might've been set down on ancient papyrus by Pythagoras or maybe McCartney, but I don't have the time or energy to work out what he's singing about, what the through-line is, and mentally file over an hour's worth of pop chamber music. It's probably good?
a few good tunes and lots of meandering, like his other work [edit: I spent a bit more time with this than usual over a weekend, and found it to be more complex and complete than I previously understood. Bumped up a point for quality. Jacksonville and Chicago are legit bangers, and some of the more oddly-titled ones are good fun. Could still lose about 15 mins]
Ok.
Dude shut up
This had some good songs but some of them blended together and it all sounded way to similar
An album that immediately feels nostalgic and simultaneously is nostalgic.
Very pleasant album to listen to. Did not feel as long as it was.
Chicago slaps
Prvi put cuo za ovo i svidio mi se dir albuma
Discount Bon Iver...
Great, intro to indie and sufjan but the length is overwhelming.
Who sings about John Wayne Gacy? That's so weird.
Meh.
i understand sufjan wanted to be comprehensive but the runtime is still a little long for me
Like this a lot more than I expected. Cohesive sobs and environment that feels perfectly 2000s indie
Oddly discordant notes mixed with good ones.
Smooth, sad, indie girl vibes. Or something like that. Really good stuff.
There's some real power in these songs, and it's a neat orchestral motif that he concocted. Casimir Pulaski Day is a standout that's particularly haunting and beautiful. My only beef is the overall length vs. the refusal to stray from the same sound throughout the entire album.
Pretty tough to just enjoy. I know that it’s like an amazing poetic experience but I don’t think Stevens really fleshes out his think points very well. Even for spoken word, it’s a little too artistic to be listenable. I kind of just wish he’d orchestrate some songs with no lyrics and just write orchestral stuff cuz I found that to be very interesting
3.5. Interesting ideas pulled off well. I never knew I needed so many songs about Illinois.
4.4
Märkligt album. Förstår inte vad den gör på listan.
Complete package of an album, the music is beautiful, the idea is original and executed perfectly. We need more albums about states, Sufjan!
Está bueno
Bien disco, aunque no es de mis autores favoritos
Incredible
8/10
How can a song about John Wayne Gacy Jr be so beautiful? This was a mix between The Eels and other 90s surf pop, The Divine Comedy and The Penguin Orchestra. How can you not immediately love a song called “The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out To Get Us!” ?! The instrumentals were a bit too jazzy for me, but overall loved this album.
Nothing notable
Boring
Not my vibe
I've been a fan for a while but have never listened to a whole album of his. That was a lot to take all at once.
Nursing home music....but not the one I might end up in.
Standout Tracks: "Come on Feel the Illinoise," "Chicago," "The Man of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts," Vocals/Lyrics- 4/5 Instrumentals- 5/5 Vibes- 5/5 Overall 4/5 I had only heard a few isolated songs on this album before my full listen and I realized what a disservice I was doing to the album. This album very naturally progresses from one song into the next. It is a gorgeous body of art. The music itself invoked just these magical images of some mystic fantasy city. It is truly a beautiful, majestic album that I really enjoyed.
This album isn't even 20 yet, and I feel as though it's reputation will only continue to grow in decades to come. While its precedent Michigan was fantastic album in its own right, I believe this is the record that cemented his reputation as one of indie's most intelligent, melodic, and heart-wrenching songwriters. From the wonderful orchestration to the captivating storytelling, this ode to the Prairie State captivates in spite of its long running time. Some may find it a little twee, others too grandiose. But for me, it's perfect.
Never heard of this singer. Listened to 2 songs then stopped. Why am I getting albums for people I never heard of or do not listen to?
Interesting album. Not bad at all for studying. Songs vary quite a lot, some very catchy, some less so. Wouldn't mind checking out some other stuff from this artist
one of my favorites sonic palettes ever. Choirs, mallets, brass, sufjan's voice. The best combo
I’m a huge Sufjan Stevens fan, and I love this album. It’s just so good, I know these songs so well, I think I’d rather die than give it less than 5 stars.
I've heard a few songs by Sufjan Stevens and I enjoy his sound. I'm looking forward to this. I'm only on the first track but I love the sound so far. Track 3 is almost 7 minutes long...usually this would bother me, but it's so interesting I don't even care. Oh wow...track 4. This is so intriguing. Dang this is such an interesting idea for an album. I'm having a blast with this. 5/5. Although this was really long, it was so interesting to listen to. I loved it. I want to go and listen to his Michigan album now.
Absolutely great vibe
C'était super bravo
se marie bien avec une atmosphère printanière
Oh man, I hate this guy. The very definition of pretentious critic darling. Ok, let’s get through the slog. Concerning The UFO Sighting Near Highland, Illinois: Oh man, starts with piano and flute. Earnest singing. Ugh. Still, 1 point for UFOs. 1/5 The Black Hawk War, or the incredibly long song name: Not a song but pretty cool, originally thought it was the end of the first song. 1/5 Come On! Feel The Illinoise! : Has a Charlie Brown beginning and then becomes a mariachi tune. Ok, whatever. Completely zoned out listening but the ending brought me back. 1/5 John Wayne Gacy Day: My wife likes true crime. Me not so much. Honestly, it’s like filth you can’t scrub off. We did watch the JWG documentary. Not the typical serial killer. Like he was a successful business guy. 1/5 Jacksonville: This is a legitimately good song. Well written. Civil rights. I’m with it. 3/5 maybe 4/5. A Short Reprise for Mary Todd, Who Went Insane, But For Very Good Reasons: the filler must be stopped. I keep thinking it’s the end of a song. 0/5 Decatur, or Round of Applause for Your Stepmother! : at first I hated this song, but then read the lyrics which are very inspired. My stepmom is awesome too but I didn’t realize that until I was an adult. 2/5 Something something about Pullman: really 6 second filler? This is meant to fuck with my shuffle. 0/5 Chicago: this is a good, maybe great song. I guess songs that name check a city are worth listening to. If Jacksonville song is a 3/5 this is a 4/5. Casimir Pulaski Day: I hope this isn’t about another serial killer. After listening I have no idea. Dull. 1/5 To The Workers of the Rock … : I think I’m done with these long titles. I’m doing this all on a phone, have pity on me. And it’s filler! Fuuuuuuuck. 0/5 The Man of Metropolis …. : Boring boring Rock Part! Back to boring Rock Part!! Slowly peters out. Is this the end? Thank god. 1/5 Prairie Fire That Wanders … : kinda cool filler. Some of the filler is actually better than the songs. 2/5 A Conjunction of Drones … : oh man missed this one. It came and went. 0/5 The Predatory Wasp … : were I grew up we had a massive wasp we were scared to death of, but it was ultimately harmless. Apparently not like this one, and I bet this wasp is only half its length. This song is scarier then the John Wayne Gacy song. 2/5 They Are Night Zombies! … : title’s more interesting than the song. Boring. 1/5 Let’s Hear The String Part …: fill…, fuck it I’m so done with these. 0/5 In This Temple …. : back to back filler!! What fresh hell. 0/5 The Seer’s Tower: OMG a normal song title. I miss Sears. The occult take is interesting, but the song sounds like something to play at someone’s death bed. If you did that please kill me before the song ends. 1/5 The Tallest Man …. : Eh, kinda tuned out. I’m sure it’s a song somebody will enjoy somewhere. Guy does have a knack for good endings. 1/5 Riffs And Variations …: trumpet filler. 0/5 Out of Egypt …: um, what? 0/5 oh now I see that the last 3 songs are tacked on, this is the ending that’s why, instead of insufferable filler. 0/5 John Galaxy’s ….: is this an actual remix? It’s not some I’m trying to be funny title? Skip 0/5 The Avala…: heavy sigh. 0/5 The T…: heavier sigh. Rough sledding these last two. 0/5 S…: I can’t do it anymore. I can’t. 0/5 Ok, I kinda get why this is on the list, but quality really drops on the 2nd half of the album. The indie singer-songwriter is definitely a thing, but was this really the one? I can think of half-a-dozen pretentious critic darling that I would much rather suffer through. Who am I kidding? I’m sure they are on the 1001 list somewhere. Overall insufferable, but Jacksonville, Chicago and maybe the stepmom song have replay value. 1/5
My daughter loves Stevens and gave me a CD of his for my birthday. But I have never been able to get into his rather formless and inartful pieces.
I can't really explain why but this album came off as ultra pretentious to me. I've never heard anything else by Sufjan Stevens and likely never will after this album. With that being said it wasn't the worst thing I've heard from this list so it gets 2 stars.
Pas mal bland, mais tu pognes des petits bouts de saveur tout au long de l'écoute, faque ça à le mérite d'avoir un 3.
duplicate
me gustó mucho, suena un poco a banda sonora de tu vida. lo volvería a escuchar. 8/10
It's a great album, I've listened to it before; but my only complaint is that the titles of most of the songs make it come off as your standard "pretentious indie artist with his head up his ass" album. I mean, the second track's title is damn near a paragraph's worth of alternate titles.
I liked it - 8/10
Great album, very calming. It seems like he really knows what he is doing. Lot of great songs with unique sounds, I was considering giving it a 5. Edit -- I changed it to a 5.
totally not what I was expecting... haven't really listened to sufjan Stevens but I have a friend whose obsessed and I thought I was gonna be sobbing through the whole thing but it wasn't too depressing. I really liked the music and the variety in instruments and I felt like the whole album was curated very nicely. big fan 9/10
Very enjoyable! I liked the simplicity and how easy it was to hear the lyrics. Sort of a nice humble album. 8/10
8.5/10 - Extremely interesting with every piece sounding completely different. I read part of the wikipedia article about this one and it was interesting to see a bit of illinois history in music. One last whoo hoo was just a crazy piece also.
This really encapsulates the spirit of lake forest lake bluff. The song names are wonderful and the music is very good. 9/10
This shit slapped. What was I thinking
Naaaa
This is bad
I am a little biased, but I basically grew up with this album and it has always been my favorite.
Illinois is not my favorite Sufjan album. Out of the two state albums, I prefer Michigan, which also isn't my favorite album overall of his. However, Illinois has so much breadth and depth does showcase his abilities to write meaningful, affecting lyrics and complex compositions.
Not my thing. Tried a few times. Just not my thing. As someone else said, if yoghurt made an album, this would be it.
6/10. Great album, kinda like a combo of Wilco and Neutral Milk Hotel. You can tell it’s a true work of art cause it’s clear Sufjan Stevens made this record for himself! Really beautiful songs and production, probably would rank higher if I found more of the songs memorable.
highlight tracks: come on feel the illinoise, chicago, casimir pulaski day, man of metropolis, and most of side 2 tbh bass playing is great all over the album production is gr8 across the whole record, too. Especially the banjo timbre on Casimir and that song's overall instrumentation - the trio of acoustic, banjo and horns go so perfectly together. Also good production on Man of Metropolis, especially the full band sections. Reminds me of Elliott Smith, but if ES had a lot more Paul McCartney in him, rather than being pretty balance before all 4 beatles. (I subscribe to the idea the ES is all 4 beatles in one person) Sufjans voice is good and soothing, but at the same time comes off as a bit (for lack of a better word) lame and cheesy (ie gay), lyrics are also a bit lame here and there, but on the other hand they come off as very personal, which I respect a lot. Brings Roman Candle to mind. These are criticisms that I 100% believe will fade with repeated listens. Predatory Wasps and the song before are also gr8. Horns are always done well on this album and don't come off as too corny, which is a hard things for horns to usually do IMO. Reminds me of nmh horns with ES/Figure 8 production. In fact, all the instrumentation on Predatory Wasps is great, keyboards especially. It was easier for me to get into these keyboards on first listen than Elliott's piano playing on XO (on first listen) which is probably a really good sign. They are Night Zombies reminds me of Kanye's (?) Jesus Walks, which is kinda hilarious to me actually. I can see how those tastes intersect with this specific song, and why the internet raves about both.
Light and fluffy with some horns
Sufjan Stevens, Illinoise (2005) Concerning the UFO Sighting - wow, piano, male vocal need to read lyric The Black Hawk War - martial instrumental Come on! Feel the Illinoise! - vocal, upbeat, lyric hard to follow John Wayne Gacy, Jr - soft vocal, sweet melody finger-picking guitar Jacksonville - piano & violin intro jazzy blues-y upbeat, vocal, need lyric Decatur - banjo, upbeat instrumental, soft vocal, need lyric Chicago - another upbeat instrumental intro, soft lyric Casimir Pulaski Day - another toe-tapping finger-picking guitar intro, soft lyric -- cancer? bittersweet lyric. Banjo interlude over guitar, horn (trumpet) interlude, The Man of Metropolis - instrumental intro, head-banger + musical, vocal follows, head-banger interlude Prairie Fire -- synth, keyboard, space-y intro with voice over in echo effect A Conjunction of Drones -- 20 second synth The Predatory Wasp -- whispery music & lyric (need to see to understand) They Are Night Zombies - great piano elec guitar intro, swing tempo In This Temple -- fantasy synth sustain echo The Seer's Tower -- piano intro w synth background, soft vocal The Tallest Man -- piano intro, hands clapping, swing beat, horns Out of Egypt - another synth fantasy intro, story-like techno instrumental
That was better than the others.
Have tried to get into this many times. Let's try again.... No, it's just the kind of music that critics think is deep and wonderful. It's boring, I just don't get it. Maybe it resonates more in America. And it's TOO LONG. Boring!
Ok for background listening.
Instrumentally diverse. A little too deep for me. It’s grown on me though through this listen.
Some of the songs were pleasant however it was mostly minor & not appealing. Prob would not listen again.
Released in 2005, Sufjan Stevens' "Illinois," is a sprawling and ambitious exploration of the state's history, laden with 22 tracks that weave a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling. Stevens' chamber-folk style is intricately crafted, marked by chirping vocals and abundant orchestration that evoke comparisons to his previous work in 2003's "Michigan." The album unintentionally reinforces East Coast stereotypes of Midwestern values, presenting earnest, hard-working music that is morally rooted and technically precise. The musical landscape of "Illinois" is bordering both strange and lush, mirroring the complexity of its giant, gushing song titles. A standout track, "John Wayne Gacy, Jr.," delves into the chilling pathology of Illinois' notorious serial killer. Stevens showcases his literary prowess, detailing Gacy's life with alarming accuracy while shifting perspectives gracefully. The song stands as a testament to Stevens' ability to evoke nuanced emotions, alternating between being rousing and distressing, creating a captivating blend that leaves listeners unsure whether to reach for party shoes or a box of tissues. With a runtime of seventy-four minutes, "Illinois" demands patience, navigating through intricate orchestration and meticulous arrangements. The album's 22 (!) tracks include transitional snippets, and hidden gems like "The Tallest Man, the Broadest Shoulder" reward those who persevere. In both theory and execution, "Illinois" stands as a monumental collection of impeccably arranged American tribute songs, showcasing Stevens as one of the best songwriters of his generation, on par with contemporaries like Bon Iver and Keaton Henson.
Is Sufjan Stevens talented, musically? Yes. Does his music interest me? No. He reminds me of novelists that use the stream-of-consciousness technique. I'm not into them either.
Gave it a couple of listens but it really didn’t grab me. Nice orchestration and variety of songs but all in the pleasant easy listening style that just passes me by. 2 rated as not inoffensive!
I only found out how to pronounce his name when I heard it on University Challenge last year, as I'm shit with things like that. Over the years, I've only listened to the odd song by him until now. Not what I was expecting, as it was much more quieter and tuneful. Really liked 'Jacksonville' and ''Chicago', and a couple of others. This album had a similar vibe to The Polyphonic Spree, which is a good thing. Nice enough for a low 3.
I get what he was trying to do...but not my bag!
I've never been a fan of Sufjan Stevens, it's too "soft" and the songs know no climax. There's so much you can do with a mandoline. Yet, for Sufjan, it only makes his songs more mellow.
Very odd collection of songs. Definitely worth the listen
Muy malo no me gusta nada
No me ha llegado el disco. Tiene sonidos muy agradables, pero otras partes me parecen estridentes. No estaría entre mis favoritos, sin duda
Not my style
I gather he was trying to make a great point, but never seemed to quite get to it. As for the music, he seemed to think adding quirky noise would make it interesting and it just didn't.
Totally new to me. It’s interesting. Someone else here said that it sounds like a Wes Anderson film, and that’s totally true. But for me that’s not a bad thing. It helps that he has a quiet voice. It’s cute. A little like a musical. But a pretty good one. It doesn’t all resonate with me, but I appreciate the effort. It’s a nice project. It is too long, though. Tapping out after 12 songs. That’s enough.
Super
So many if these albums are masterpieces and 24 hours isn't enough to form a coherent opinion of them. This is a classic example where I managed 1.5 listens through and liked what I heard by it didn't manage to get a sense of the stories and the magnitude of the thing. I'll try to revisit.
2.0 per track. Yawn.
Indie Classic. Used to love this but now its just okay. Im not a lyrics dude.
It's almost classical in its beautiful arrangements and ornamentation, yet somehow manages to also be heart breaking earth shattering pop too. A work of true genius. And this review is still shorter than some of the song titles.
Liked a couple of songs. "Chicago" was my fav -- of course because it was the one that was most familiar. Breathy lyrics, some of it reminded me of Beatles stuff after they got a little more experimental (high flute notes . . .) Album was very long
Interesting music. Lyrics were a little off.
A tour through the state of Illinois. Each track tells you a different story. Long album but most tracks are 30 to 45 second intervals and then you’re hit with a story.
Beautiful and weird, i love it from first song.
Indie rock, Indie folk, Indie pop, Folk rock, Baroque pop, Experimental rock, Folk baroque
Very pretty albulm
I really wasn't expecting anything like that, but I liked it
Still not sure if I enjoyed the album or not.
A very creative singer songwriter, who is very easy to listen to. I am particularly impressed by his richly varied song and music design, which I find quite impressive. Playing tip: Chicago
Man, I hoping to like this album more, but it wasn't anything special for me. Maybe I just wasn't listening close enough, or maybe the length was getting to me, but I found myself bored some of the time. There were definitely good parts, and I'd overall call the album good, but I was left not feeling much by the end. My favourite song was John Wayne Gacy, Jr.
Ok ,slightly long winded.
One of the best indie albums of all time
Doesn't get much more pretentious, but I like some of the Steve Reich/Philip Glass influenced pieces
Not what I expected but also not really my thing. Would give him another shot for sure
BL: Illinois was one of the first proper albums I listened to the whole way through. So many of the tracks hold close memory associations and are very near and dear in my heart. “The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out to Get Us” is a personal favourite of mine as I remember singing it with a girl I had a crush on in acting school when I was 12 or 13. This album is completely linked to who I am as a person, and I’m sure my love for it will only continue to grow on a relisten. AL: this album still holds so much emotional weight and memory to me. But as I grow older I do realise this album does suffer from having a decent amount of filler. While 80% of the album flows amazingly especially in the last few tracks it almost completely peters out. That being said, just for how strong the influence the album has had on me is. It’s a solid 5 from me. FT: “Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, Illinois”, “John Wayne Gacy Jr.”, “Casimir Pulaski Day”, “The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out to Get Us!”, “They are Night Zombies!! They are Neighbours!! They Have Come Back from the Dead!! Ahhhhh!” 5/5
It was okay. Not my cup of tea.
A perfectly nice album, even if towards the end I started checking my watch a little.
Llevamos muchos días con truños impresentables. A ver si vamos cambiando.
Played in a LOT of coffee shops circa 2006.
I really don’t like this
- the song titles are killing me. in a funny way - chicago >>
Oops I've been missing out my whole life
One of the most beautiful albums ever. Sufjan’s voice has that amazing, airy timbre and the instrumental arrangements are so distinct and layered extremely well. The aesthetic of the album is so unique and the concept is so rich; I have not heard anything like it since. This thing is dense as hell without ever getting old. So many songs, especially Predatory Wasp, truly move me every time I hear them, and I can’t say that about a lot of albums. This thing is close to perfect. Easy 5.
It was a nice album to relax to. It had some nice vibes, but I'm not sure when I would ever seek it out.
My first exposer to this music. While I appreciate the art, and believe it to be Phillip Glass influenced, I don't care for the thin voice work or the lyric. I would listen a second time to possible undo a first impression, but I can barely mark this as a 2. I'd rather just listen to Phillip Glass.
Very interesting. Cool name on both album and artist. Music was very laid-back and occasionally put me in mind of Bill Wurtz. Was surprised to learn it's from as recent 2005. Good listening in the background but wouldn't go out of my way to put it on.
mid af
wow!!!! just wow. this album just sounds like childhood, it brings me so much joy. i almost teared up when i heard the upbeat trumpet with the accompanying soft lyrics. i adore this album so much.
i can see why this album is rated so well, sufjan manages to deliver a wide variety of instruments beautifully brings his alternative folk style to life telling deep stories about the state of illinois. however, i can't rate it highly from a perspective of enjoyment as its simply not for me
no es mi estilo, aunque la tematica es interesante
As many other people I know Sufjan Stevens through the film Call Me By Your Name. His songs there have the perfect place there because they are used outside of the album context. On length I don't find Stevens's music as convincing. This album here as some little filler skits I don't really need. Also you soon notice the formula for the album. Still, the use of the horns is great. I might check out other albums by Stevens.
#69 (nice). This album sucks. I have never heard nor even heard of this guy beforehand. The album cover is pretty cool, I thought, but it misled me. There's nothing good inside. Just uninteresting hipster-folk trash start to finish. The song titles are more stupid than Fall Out Boy Songs. Nothing about any of this did I enjoy in the slightest bit. I seriously considered giving this one star, but then I went back and skimmed through some Tom Waits songs [the true bar of what is a one star album] and thought OK, maybe it's not that bad. But it's borderline almost one star though. Trash 2/5: not good Song added to playlist: Jacksonville I've created a playlist on Spotify that consists of the best and/or my favorite song from each of the albums in this book. This list can be found here if you are interested: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7MAXDGLWlwLkFLb8veGfkA?si=FqkQQPgZTFWG0jAUJXLFZA&utm_source=copy-link
Decent
This album surprised me. The melodies were good, the lyrics meaningful, and the musicianship solid. I enjoyed this.
Nice album but too long
Kinda weird
Слишком позитивно Но одна песня мне понравилась
the theme was very fun but I got distracted by the shorter "songs"
It was fine. Too involved for a work listen, and I'm sure the concept was much deeper than I gleaned, but it didn't blow me away. Good instrumentation for much of the album though.
This is the worst type of album to hear for the first time while focused elsewhere. I had to lookup the song titles separately. Clearly, it's a dense project that has a lot of cultural/historical references and deserves more time and listens than I can afford at this moment. That said, I still was able to appreciate the instrumentals on some of these tracks, and there was never a song I actively disliked. I'm not writing this off, just too busy for the moment. Fav Tracks: Jacksonville, Chicago, The Man of Metropolis...
I anticipate the following review to be a hot take but here it goes. This is the first album so far that I already knew well and I love this one. Well rounded, pretty, kind of jazzy, with some of my favorite instrumentals and interesting, well-researched lyrics. I know some people think a concept album all about a state is silly and excessive but I think this album is great. Would give it a 4.5 if I could as it's definitely not a perfect album, but 5 stars to distinguish it from anything else I've rated 4 so far. Best song: Chicago, The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out To Get Us!
Fantastic album. The songwriting and backing orchestral instrumentation are the big highlights on this album for me. It feels like Sufjan has made use of almost every instrument in the orchestra throughout this album, and each track has a distinct vibe based on the instruments used. The album does such a good job of immersing you into this world of Illinois created by Sufjan. It takes through through a journey of highs, lows, and UFOs. It's a beautiful thing. Fave tracks: John Wayne Gacy, Jr., Chicago, Casimir Pulaski Day, The Predatory Wasp..., They are Night Zombies!! They...
This is an epic album. It is taking concept to the extreme, jam-packed with references both personal and cultural to Illinois. The scope is truly mind-boggling. The songwriting is also extremely well done. Beautiful instrumentation and varied, experimental sounds that still form a cohesive unit. Also the song titles are a real joy. Despite all of this - I personally feel this album does not fully emotionally resonate with me in the way a lot of other great albums do, but I do still appreciate as an exceptional work of art nonetheless. Perhaps I just need to dig a bit deeper. Fav Tracks: Chicago, The Man of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts, The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out to Get Us!
Gorgeous melodies. Very quirky lyrics. Overly long song names that pass the border into pretentious. This was a challenge for me to listen to. It felt too busy to just background, but I also couldn't make the time to sit down and give the album my full attention. Abbreviating the titles, "Columbia/Carl Sandburg" and "Night Zombies!" are my favorites. It seems like some good stuff but I need more time with it.
It’s good for what it is. Not stuff that’s normally up my alley
It was ok. I don’t know why he thought he could make 50 albums like this…but I’d be excited to hear a Nebraska one
❤️
Fantastic. Never had gotten around to it but everything people said is true
Interesting album/artist. Knew the name from the OC soundtrack. Won’t be listening again
Completely different to every other Sufjan record I've heard, I'm not sure I took it all in in one listen but what I did get was very good. Will revisit.
What an interesting album. Not something I would’ve ever listened to before. Such a moody album. A lot of it is very somber and low-key but then there are some crazy jams with electronic equipment. I would definitely listen to it again and also recommend it to someone else. Definitely not something I would listen to a lot but once in a while, maybe.
Good music just not my style
Una épica obra a la que hay que dedicarle tiempo. Es vasta y compleja, tanto que se hace muy larga. De Sufjan prefiero cuando es más conciso.
I remember the first time I heard this album. Somebody had mentioned it was really good and I sat down and had a very similar experience to today "Is this background music?" and then somewhere in track 3 you just get swept up in the sound. It's big while maintaining a subtlety. There is a lot going on for something that is whisper quiet at times. Also, John Wayne Gacy, Jr. is still as haunting as it ever has been.
Such an insanely brilliant album. Thinking that Sufjan could easily be a classical composer if he wanted to...the arrangements are that amazing. Biggest highlights are Come On! Feel the Illinoise, Predatory Wasps, Casimir Pulaski. This album has been such a huge part of my life for so long...such a shame he abandoned the 50 States project. Would be amazing to have an Indiana entry. 6/5
Theme and lyrics I didn’t find interesting but the music itself is beautiful, great song writing and composition, loved the orchestral parts
A singular achievement, almost monolithic in its quality. There is ample excellence on display and a great deal of excellence, thought it can be tricky to tell them apart after a time, what with the somewhat samey strings on every song and a blueprint-similar vocal style, too). Obviously, SS is a massive talent; one wonders if he's always applied it to optimal effect.
His schtick ain’t for me
not for me
This is probably just me. But I absolutely can't stand Sufjan Stevens' music. It's pretentious drivel with an extra heaping dose of ridiculous noise thrown in the background. Pretty sure this was the worst album thus far.
😑🔫
i’ve always seen him around and have listened to like 1 song before and i’m mad at myself for not having listened to more cause i really really really like this so much. and i will listen to everything else and see if it’s the album or actually sufjan, but yeah, this was right up my street.
I hated everything about this album
My 2005 self would’ve loved this.
This was a really interesting sound and one I am embarrassed to admit I had not heard before today. I enjoyed it and will definitely listen again.
Chicago, no sabía que era de él. Un poco largo el disco. Me gusta más al principio que al final.
Skön vibe. Några låtar in, men 6/10 får den
Vibe
Sufjan Stevens is one of those artists that I kinda of knows exists and I dig his music but never went beyond his bigger “hits”. I knew of, and very much loved “Chicago” from this album but never listened to the whole album. We I loved this album. I was hanging Christmas lights on Black Friday and I listened this album on repeat for the entire 5 hours it took me.
Too long. Definitely could have cut it down to just the tracks that have an actual identity. Half the songs are just whimsical for the sake of whimsy and don’t really feel like they’ve had much thought put into them.
Nothing really stuck to me bad or good, everything just slid off like butter one a hot pan
nice mellow music. It's ok
doesn’t tickle me but it’s good
Cover funny. Cool z ghöre was Musikkritiker 2005 so abgfiirt hend. Bläser instrumentierig natürlich immer es plus (ussert es isch "brass techno", das cha vo mir us de drummer uf sine 5 Plastikchübel allei spiele.) Strings findi au schlöö. Banjo auno, nice. De Jesus bueb chan singe und schriebe, au wenns mich mengmol biz glangwilt het (i oisere schnällläbige ziit), herzigi lieder. Dass de dude gseit het er macht es Album zu jedem staat findi sehr funny.
haha er macht funny langi liedtitel. ich ha das album vor 10 johr oder so mol glost und mega guet gfunde. aber mol luege. oeff s dritt lied en 5/4. ok s isch sehr introspective musig, möstmer worschinli im ligge am stuck lose. Wayne Gracy Jr. meega schön. a chicago magi mi erinnere findi super schön. Casimir Pulaski day (?) chli jesus time. banjo nice, aber s tönt mit de ziit alles chli ähnlich. mir sind ide peak indie langi titel ära. Ich find sini melodie ide strophe sind immer sehr ähnlich vorallem hends immer die glich kadenz. de gitarrepart bi the man of meteopolis isch aber no cool. das album isch leider sehr gueti hintergrund musig und songs gönd inenand übere. bin immer wieder abglenkt und vergiss dasi am lose bin. predatory wasp de trompeterdogg schono nice. they are night zombies ouuu cleani e-gitarre mit bass wo dopplet? count me in. ok byebye gitarre. mer muesem aber geh dass d instrumentierig extrem divers isch.
Hey also ähm abgseh vo John Wayne Gacy, Jr. und The Seers tower wo mega schön gsi isch und One Last 'Whoo-Hoo!' for the Pullman!! wege funny han ich nüt chönne mit dem ahfange. Nöd dass ich d musig schlecht fänd, im gegeteil, es git parts wo mich au überrascht hend und ich cool gfunde han, aber für mich isches eifach echt langwilig gsi sorry. iwie schwebts für mich zwüsche film- und werbigmusig. titelnäme sind funny und bass bi night zombies hani gern. s outro hetmer iwie au gfalle, het zum album passt. wiso heter nöd midwest emo gmacht wenner scho illinois als albumtitel nimmt? 2/5 sorry suuf-jan
Wow I liked this much more than I expected. I've always been a sucker for concept albums, but even without the concept, the music itself is amazing.
Sweet and twee, certainly a product of its time in that respect. It's well crafted, though, and the instrumentation is suitably delicate throughout. It's too long, that's for sure, but there's a lot to love about this.
4/5 Favorite song: Chigago
Really nice, seems almost like a musical. The individual songs keep pretty much the rhythm and melody, but it's not too similar to the other songs on the album.
Couple great songs. Great voice.
Lots to like in terms of instrumentation and music regardless of how you feel about the lyrics and overall concept. In terms of the concept, I was skeptical at first because an album about a state doesn’t sound like a good concept. That being said, I think it was executed well and the more I dove into the concept and the history the more intrigued I was by it all. This being my first introduction to Sufjan Stevens, I get the impression that he does whatever he wants with his music and doesn’t give a donk what the mainstream tendencies might be. I like that. Solid album overall and worth a revisit.
Love me some Sufjan Stevens. I have his album beginners mind on vinyl. Given his discography, this one is middle of the road for me
Man I'm a sucker for a good concept album, and this one hits the spot. It's not something I would recommend to everyone, and it feels like it requires more attention than sometimes I would like to give, but it's a pretty unique experience album-wise and it's not too far off the path of a regular album. Something about it feels theatrical, and it moves up and down from climaxes in a familiar way. Good stuff. Highlight: Chicago Lowlight: Out of Egypt, into the Great Laugh of Mankind, and I shake the dirt from my sandals as I run Surprise Hit: They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From the Dead!! Ahhhh!
I remember when this came out and every hipster was spewing in his/her/their pants. This album marks the beginning of the pussification of the USA. Can't give it a 1, since there's some good orchestral moments.
Not a bad album at all! Was surprised how much I enjoy the beginning of this album! It was fun, bright, and had some interesting musical choices! However, about halfway through, I found myself bored. I ventured on and realized we're kinda treading the same ground in the latter half. Not bad at all, but definitely wears you out with it's sound and somewhat overstays it's welcome and by the end, you're wandering if the whole thing needed to be a 1 hour and 14 minute experience. I enjoy what it has to offer more than I dislike it! But definitely wouldn't go out of my way to listen to this album another time.
Heard before, would listen again, but not seek it out
The music had its moments, the half whispered lyrics just got a bit too tiresome.
I'm familiar with "Casimir Pulaski Day," but other than that, I haven't listened to any of Sufjan Stevens' music. This album has been on my list to listen to for a while, but this was my first time getting around to it. This album was pretty middle of the road in my opinion. It was pleasant to listen to, but I didn't feel like anything here was lighting the world on fire. Sufjan's singing is nice, and the musical arrangements are nice and pleasant as well, especially the horns and strings that were present throughout the album. The lyrics and overall theme were very creative as well, but they weren't really enough to really captivate me. This was a nice piece of music, but I don't think it's something I'll revisit.
Folk. Rock. Curioso.
Their album has become one of my favourite.
Chicago, no sabía que era de él. Un poco largo el disco. Me gusta más al principio que al final.
Such a ling album, needs a few listens, didn't immediately grab me but it might.
To quote the movie "The Rock" "I dont listen to that soft shit"
Taattua Sufjania.
Crazy to think sufjan Stevens goes on to do Pixar’s luca soundtrack.
Sufjan absolutely knows his sound. One of those albums where if you like one track you’ll like them all. Chicago and Casimir pulaski day are absolute emotional rollercoasters. Would surely be a 5/5 without all the filler instrumental tracks.
Definitely didn’t hold up to the hype it has when it came out.
Only made it halfway through, I feel like if Iistened to it a few times maybe I’d get it but I didn’t have the patience. Default 2
The hipster in me wanted to like this more, but I just can’t do a whole 75 minutes of Sufjan. If I’m in the mood I’ll stick to Carrie and Lowell which is a far superior album and about half the length
2.4 there was some interesting sections but overall not my cup of tea
This is not the first time listening to parts of this album or Sufjan. So, I know already that I really like his sounds, and know to brace myself for some of his weird instrumentations. High key, this is an incredible album. A little artsy (but what Indie album isn't), but full of character.
This is a vastly different album than what I was expecting with a name like "Illinoise." I was expecting (hoping for) a hip hop, Beastie Boys-esque, album, or "Cum On Feel the Noize" by Slade or Quiet Riot, but instead, this is more indie folk or lo-fi background music, with Christian soft rock and splashes of elevator jazz. As far as being important, influential, or best in popular music, this album is a swing and a miss. The highlight of this album is the sweet and pure trumpet sprinkled throughout which loosely reminds me of "Pictures at an Exhibition."
Fín plata. Róleg bakgrunnstónlist en stundum missir hann sig í einhverju of framúrstefnulegu. Að listamanna yfir sig smá.
Ég á ofboðslega erfitt með Sufjan Stevens - þykir stöffið hans meira og minna allt tilgerðarlegt drasl. Það á meðal annars við um þessa plötu.
Finally one of my all time favorites! Strong 5
This is one of the strangest albums I've ever come across the music itself is fine but the presentation is just all over the place and I still don't know what to make of it. The album art feels like it's from the 60s, the majority of the song titles are run on sentences that are insanely long, there's a song about john wayne gacy? On top of that I'm already not a big fan of this style of folk music but by the end I did end up liking this album even though I will likely never listen to it again.
Concerning the UFO Sighting Near Highland, Illinois Come on! Feel the Illinoise! Part I: The World's Columbian Exposition Part II: Carl Sandburg Visits Me in a Dream John Wayne Gacy, Jr. Decatur, or, Round of Applause for Your Stepmother! Chicago Casimir Pulaski Day They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From the Dead!! Ahhhh!
a beautiful fun sad epic folk album
Like a lot of art albums, it benefits from a quiet, focussed listening. Even though I didn't do that, this is a brilliant. Not at all what I was expecting either.
Wow, I really liked that! Some songs were surprisingly vibrant and I loved it! His voice is really easy on the ears. The instruments take you places
There’s something I don’t like about Sufjan Stevens. Maybe he lies a little too close to my own sensibilities. So I didn’t really like this album, but maybe that’s not his fault.
3/10 - not the greatest to many songs - nice if you like melancholy indie has some uplifting songs though - skipped some thought
A bit sing-songy - would not surprise me if this was made for or to be a musical? - but overall just a very pleasant and enjoyable album. 4.5
Production is pretty good. Not a big fan of vocal timbre. Iike the album cover. Feels a bit Disneyish Not a big fan of music did not finish
Sweet, Elliot Smith vibes. Nice easy listening while working.
This album was a nice discovery of an artist I didn't know of. Apart from the typical folk style vocals and lyrics sometimes, the music arrangement surprised me in it's creativity. A couple of songs in 5/4 meter and unexpected chord progressions made this an interesting listen. 4 stars.
Some good and some meh here. I listened to this a bunch when new. My opinion is the same now as then. Gacy is a super weird track.
At first when I was listening to this I wasn't a huge fan. I thought that this album was long, bloated, and repetitive. It wasn't too novel and each song blends together but it was pleasant and easy to. But after I read how much Stevens read about Illinois to prepare for this album, I realized that that the structure of the album commentary on what it's like living in Illinois, or living in the Midwest in general. Long, repetitive, and it all feels the same. I'm not sure if this is exactly what he was going for but this really helped the album click in my mind. If you're curious about what I'm talking and what he's doing here, look up Midwest Regionalism studies. Literature, film, and music (or any media) related to the Midwest. Throughout so many works of the Midwest you can find these common themes of longing, dissatisfaction, feeling like an outcast, repetition, and boredom. This is a great entry into that genre, putting to song what Illinois is truly like. I may not listen to this album a lot front to back but I think I will start listening to Sufjan Stevens more often. Great sound.
honesty, i just don’t get this guy…
This is way better than I expected. It's fun, but it's very one level. And in some of the songs they do that thing where you really can't understand the lyrics even if you're trying which I'm not a fan of. I'm really between a 3 and 4 on this, but I'm feeling generous.
A little long winded and could be cut down a bit, but this is stellar.
Ok
Incredible. Everyone from Chicagoland, Illinois should listen to this album. Beautiful, moving, excellent lyricism and inspiring melodies
This was a staple of my early 20’s and I haven’t really listened to it much since. I forgot just how good it is. I love a record where it feels like every little detail has been considered, and this is one of those for me. Everything feels so intricate and well thought out. It has everything I like: great lyrics, well (but not over) produced, lots going on musically but never overly complex, heartfelt. My only slight gripe is it long, but then again it’s packed with great songs. There’s two 5 star albums here, but strangely 5+5=4.5. Dont ask me why. I think this was the record that catapulted him to ‘indie God’, and his releases since have mostly been at the same calibre or in some cases even better received. 4.5 rounded up to 5, and it’s back in my regular rotation
Only know the name, had never previously heard a song. This album was really good, the songs with odd time signatures and trumpets were class, reminded me of American Football/Beirut/Clever Girl. The other tracks were sometimes a bit too twee but by the end of the first listen I wanted to go again which is a good sign. Also didn't fell too long despite being over an hour. Definitely over a 4, not quite a 5.
I really, really like this album. I have no idea why or how I got into it, all I remember is that I've been a fan of it for at least 10 years. I've bought it on CD on two separate occasions, and it currently sits in my car. Expansive and yet introverted and intricate. Lovely range of melodies to the whole thing, but a coherence to it all. I'm thrilled that a lot of it is in a minor key, so when this changes, the "joyful songs" are that bit more joyful. I can recognise a lot of religious elements too, which maybe adds more grounding to the music, which can admittedly leap into a bit too ethereal at times. My favourite songs are: John Wayne Gacy Jr. -- possibly the sweetest, saddest song written about a serial killer. The true highlight of the album. Casimir Pulaski Day -- I like the banjo. The song changes throughout but sort of doesn't. Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, Illiniois -- An epic introduction to the album. The Seer's Tower -- Dismal and dingy, how I like most of my music. They Are Night Zombies! ... -- A bit daft but original and memorable. The Tallest Man, the Broadest Shoulders ... -- Soaring orchestral nonsense. I have listened to his other stuff and, whilst good, doesn't captivate me the way that this does. I also didn't realise that he played the majority of the instruments on the album. Good stuff. "I see the fire, I see the end". Just some nice writing.
What a strange and beautiful album. The singer has a great voice and the backing vocals with the sweeping instruments all fit perfectly. Like most of the song titles the album goes on a bit long but it was mostly a great listen. This might get 5 stars with subsequent listens. Highlights: Come On! Feel the Illinoise!..... Jacksonville Chicago The Man of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts They Are Night Zombies!!
Wasn't aware of this at all. When I saw the cover I thought it was some jazz album.... Firstly, it's a long un, 22 tracks, long song titles too! This has elements of a lot of bands I like, the shins, Elliott Smith, postal service a bit. I don't know how to describe it properly but I feel it's music for people that liked Garden State (I did). Really enjoyed it, and I feel like it will grow on me after more listens. I think I recognise Chicago, but don't know where from I'm pretty surprised I haven't heard of this before, given how similar it is to music I like, glad I have! Definitely be back Highlights: Chicago John Wayne Gacey jr Casimir Pulaski day Predatory wasp ...... At least a 4, maybe higher with more listens
relaxing
This album started out very promising. The first couple songs are really good, and I was sure this was going to be one of the best albums on this list. But then it just kept going. So many of the songs on this album are so samey. It gets hard to tell them apart. They’re all nice to listen to but most don’t really stand out. And the album is over an hour long, about half of it probably could’ve been cut and it’d be better for it. But when it’s good, it’s very good. The songs are mostly very good, and they kind of make up for the samey-ness and length of the album. Definitely will have to check out more Sufjan Stevens in the future. 8/10 Top 3: 1. Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, Illinois 2. John Wayne Gacy, Jr. 3. Come On! Feel the Illinoise!
Almost a true 5/5 some of the songs stick with you, some are just to self-involved. I'll listen to thos album again in the future.
I liked it has great songs.
Love this record.
It's nice and very Chicago.
Liked more songs towards the end?
Pleasantly surprised by this one. Wish more of the album sounded like those first few bigger arrangements. The "white guy that thinks he's clever and has an acoustic stringed instrument" sections lose me, but those orchestral/big band moments are so good. Almost a 4.
Musically there are some interesting bits, but it is far too much riffing, self indulgent nonsense.
Interesting album. He is not shy about using any and all instruments in his music. There were a couple devastatingly sad songs on there, too.
I remember the first time I heard this album. Somebody had mentioned it was really good and I sat down and had a very similar experience to today "Is this background music?" and then somewhere in track 3 you just get swept up in the sound. It's big while maintaining a subtlety. There is a lot going on for something that is whisper quiet at times. Also, John Wayne Gacy, Jr. is still as haunting as it ever has been.
meu amor, a alma mais linda da música
Easy to listen to, interesting stories within each song, with some really beautiful instrumentals and harmonizing. The lyrics got me thinking, this artist is a real poet. I enjoyed the whole album. The John Wayne Gacy song, that was quite an interesting take on/ portrayal of a serial killer. 4.5
Great mood
I owe you an apology, Mr. Stevens. I wasn't really familiar with your game.
Definitely unlike anything I’ve ever heard before. I enjoyed it, but… you know that saying “there’s so much movie in this movie?” Yeah, I felt that way about this album. There was SO MUCH music in this music, to the point where it was overwhelming to listen to after a while.
I’m honestly biased toward this one. One of my ex girlfriends put Casimir Pulaski Day on a mixtape for me. The album in whole is a lot more instrumental than I predicted it would be. I think the sound is lovely and the narrative is kind of lyrically gripping. Somewhere between easy listening and intensely emotional immersion for me haha.
Eclectic
Sounds like coffee shop music in a hallmark movie
I like Carrie & Lowell more, but I understand the acclaim that Illinois gets. Very artistic and unique with fantastic lyricism.
Conflicted about that one. There are some good song. Some of them I found too chaotic and stressful. The best one is just way too sad
I didn’t have much of an idea what to expect from this. I think he’s more popular in America. I loved it though and I am sure it will reward more listens. Still hating the fact there are only 5 stars
Liked the concept kind of all sounded the same
While it holds moments of brilliance, it felt lengthy and somewhat too pop-centric for my taste. Stevens' vocals, though initially captivating, became somewhat monotonous after the first few tracks. The album's rich and intricate instrumentation certainly showcases Stevens' talent and creativity. The unexpected twists and turns in the music can be quite engaging, adding depth to the overall experience. It's clear that a lot of effort went into crafting this sonic journey. It's worth noting that, in the right context, "Illinois" could work beautifully as a background soundtrack during family road trips, providing an enjoyable and unobtrusive musical backdrop for shared moments.