Shortly after 2005, it became wildly evident that Sufjan Stevens was bored with himself. The indie artist had just completed two conceptual albums, Michigan and Illinois, based on a long-running project about the fifty states. Though the songs were undoubtedly beautiful, it was clear that the project had to end or, at least, go on hiatus. He was hitting a wall in the creative process.
Much to the dismay (and occasional delight) of hipsters everywhere, Stevens ditched the fifty states and conducted a performance piece about the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. He made a few appearances on other artists’ albums after this, but he didn’t resurface until recently on the All Delighted People EP.
The EP raised as many questions as it answered. Fans were glad to have something new, but they were left with a lingering uncertainty–was this an accurate representation Sufjan Stevens’ new sound? As it turns out, they wouldn’t have to wait too long to find out…
Sufjan’s record label Asthmatic Kitty announced the upcoming release of The Age of Adz, a brand new LP of original music. There were no underlying gimmicks or cultural themes this time. The album drew inspiration from Louisiana-based artist Royal Robertson, but it wasn’t about him. More importantly, the banjos and acoustic guitars of previous projects were replaced by drum machines and analog synthesizers.
This results in a slightly noisy, discordant sound that might not appeal to certain listeners, but Sufjan’s gift for infectious melodies makes up for the craziness. Upon first listen, you might think to yourself “WTF”, then you’ll be revisiting each song obsessively. Long story short? It’s another big win for this cutie from Detroit.
– Dewitt
To listen to select tracks from this album, follow the JUMP:
It’s really awesome to log into Manhunt and see an article about Sufjan… And, I’m not being sarcastic!
Yup – delighted to see a Sufjan review! I need to get this albo real soon.
Wow, an article about Sufjan on Manhunt?! I’m more than just delightfully surprised. I’m down right giddy.
Anyway, Sufjan’s latest album is a welcome return to his most original work “A Sun Came.” His latest album has been on repeat for over two weeks now.
I love him and his new sound is growing on me. And Sufjan certainly works with this blog because he is just dreamy as fuck 🙂
he’s such a great artist and just fucking adorable
This is one of the best albums I’ve heard in a while. Odd at first but you get lost in the trance-like music and his voice.
He is so amazing. I was cruising through the music category on the website and I am so happy I found he’s being reviewed on this site. There is nothing about him that I don’t love. And how did you not mention the 25-minute closer “Impossible Soul”?