Albums
illinois - sufjan stevens

Illinois

Sufjan Stevens

2005
22 tracks
1 uur, 14 min
chamber pop

Album Description

Sufjan Stevens' fifth studio album, Illinois, is a captivating exploration of the American state, delving into its rich history, notable figures, and poignant events. Released on 5 July 2005 through Asthmatic Kitty, this chamber pop and baroque pop masterpiece is the second instalment in Stevens' ambitious '50 States Project', which began with his breakthrough album Michigan in 2003.

Featuring 22 tracks, including 'Concerning the UFO Sighting Near Highland, Illinois', 'The Black Hawk War, Or, How to Demolish an Entire Civilization and Still Feel Good About Yourself In the Morning', and 'John Wayne Gacy, Jr.', Illinois is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged journey through the state's complex past. From the World's Columbian Exposition to the story of Casimir Pulaski, Stevens weaves a intricate narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

With its 74-minute duration, Illinois is an epic spectacle that showcases Stevens' exceptional storytelling ability and musical prowess. The album's intricate arrangements and poetic lyrics create a sense of depth and nuance, drawing the listener into a world of historical and cultural significance. As a testament to Stevens' innovative spirit, Illinois has been adapted into a musical, further solidifying its place in the annals of American music.

Through Illinois, Sufjan Stevens invites listeners to immerse themselves in the state's fascinating history, exploring themes of identity, community, and the human experience. This seminal album is a must-listen for fans of chamber pop and baroque pop, and a powerful example of Stevens' boundless creativity and artistic vision.

5 jul 20052005 Asthmatic Kitty2005 Asthmatic Kitty

Tracks

Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, IllinoisSufjan Stevens
2:08
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...Sufjan Stevens
2:14
Come On! Feel the Illinoise! Part I: The World's Columbian Exposition Part II: Carl Sandburg Visits Me In A DreamSufjan Stevens
6:45
John Wayne Gacy, Jr.Sufjan Stevens
3:19
JacksonvilleSufjan Stevens
5:24
A short reprise for Mary Todd, who went insane, but for very good reasonsSufjan Stevens
0:47
Decatur, or, Round of Applause for Your Step-Mother!Sufjan Stevens
3:03
One last "Whoo-hoo!" for the PullmanSufjan Stevens
0:06
ChicagoSufjan Stevens
6:04
Casimir Pulaski DaySufjan Stevens
5:53
To The Workers of The Rock River Valley Region, I have an idea concerning your predicament, and it involves an inner tube, bath mats, and 21 able-bodied menSufjan Stevens
1:40
The Man of Metropolis Steals Our HeartsSufjan Stevens
6:17
Prairie Fire That Wanders AboutSufjan Stevens
2:11
A conjunction of drones simulating the way in which Sufjan Stevens has an existential crisis in the Great Godfrey MazeSufjan Stevens
0:19
The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out to Get Us!Sufjan Stevens
5:23
They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From the Dead!! Ahhhh!Sufjan Stevens
5:09
Let's hear that string part again, because I don't think they heard it all the way out in BushnellSufjan Stevens
0:40
In This Temple As in The Hearts of Man For Whom He Saved The EarthSufjan Stevens
0:35
The Seer's TowerSufjan Stevens
3:53
The Tallest Man, the Broadest Shoulders Part I: The Great Frontier Part II: Come to Me Only With Playthings NowSufjan Stevens
7:02
Riffs and Variations on a single note for Jelly Roll, Earl Hines, Louis Armstrong, Baby Dodds, and the King of Swing, to name a fewSufjan Stevens
0:46
Out of Egypt, into the Great Laugh of Mankind, and I shake the dirt from my sandals as I runSufjan Stevens
4:21

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About Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his poetic lyricism and diverse musical style. Based in New York, Stevens has released a prolific body of work, including ten solo studio albums and numerous collaborative projects. His music, which spans genres like chamber pop and baroque pop, is celebrated for its emotional depth and intricate compositions. Stevens has garnered critical acclaim, earning Grammy and Academy Award nominations, and his latest album, "Javelin," showcases his signature blend of blissful melancholy and uplifting grandeur. Beyond his musical achievements, Stevens has also faced personal challenges, including a recent diagnosis of a rare auto-immune condition that has affected his ability to walk. Despite these obstacles, his artistry continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

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