I’d been putting off listening to this album in full for years probably. Not sure why exactly. Sufjan Stevens’ discography has always been full of blind spots for me, and I think it’s because his music is just so overwhelming. For example, I don’t think I’ve ever listened to his more famous album Carrie and Lowell (2015) all the way through in one sitting (apart from when I’m going to sleep with it playing). There’s just sooooooo much heart in every track he puts out (in general), and this album is no exception.
I’ve heard a few songs here and there, but hearing this in full is just incredible. You just know when you’re listening to a Sufjan Stevens song because the instrumentation is consistently incredible, from the guitar-playing to the trumpets and even the choirs (?) / background singing. Everything just complements each other so well, I can’t believe he made this shit 20 years ago man. Perfect evening album which, if you know me, is the mark of an album that will consistently be in my rotation for years to come.
Fav Tracks: Casimir Pulaski Day, all of them tbh