barry burton

Sufjan Stevens is The New Black

If amazing indie singer songwriter arrangements were a color, that is. But they aren’t. Sufjan’s stuff is immediately likable, although after listening to it a week or so, it really becomes addicting. Score 1 for his unique and pleasant vocals. Score 2 for the complex arrangements, which are probably the best part. While still possessing that indie lightness, over the entire album he makes use of a great variety of instruments, which add much richness. From what I understand, he is making each of his new albums about a state (having already done Illinois and Michigan). I know this sounds a bit cheesy (I certainly thought so), but the songs for the most part just tell stories that took place in each state. As such, the lyrics are never trite but approach the interestingness of David Bazan (I, at least, consider this a high compliment).

At any rate, I am no music critic, so give Sufjan a listen — 3hive: Sufjan Stevens has links to 8 free Sufjan Stevens’ songs.

Speaking of which, 3hive is really cool web site. It is a music blog that posts a new band everyday, and each post contains a blurb about the band and several links to free songs. They stick with less than mainstream music, so it is a great way to discover new good stuff.

Sufjan Stevens’ official website is currently empty (maybe it will be full later) but his page on the record label website contains a diverting bio.