Akron/Family
Akron/Family · 2005
60 min · 14 tracks · indie folk
A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental folk and psychedelic sounds that invites listeners into a realm of introspective exploration.
Top tracks — play these first
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Before and Again — This opening track sets the tone with its rich harmonies and layered instrumentation, encapsulating the band's experimental ethos right from the start.
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Italy — With its expansive length and shifting dynamics, this track exemplifies the band's ability to weave intricate narratives through sound, blending folk roots with avant-garde elements.
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Running, Returning — This song highlights the group's lyrical depth and melodic sensibilities, presenting a reflective journey that resonates throughout the album's themes of exploration and personal growth.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic instrumentation and vocal interplay create a distinctive sound that stands out in the indie folk genre.
What we noticed
- The album features a wide range of instrumentation, including acoustic guitars, horns, and electronic elements, creating a layered soundscape.
- Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes and shifts in dynamics, such as the transition from the quiet 'I’ll Be on the Water' to the more frenetic 'Running, Returning'.
- The use of vocal harmonies is prominent, with multiple voices intertwining throughout many songs, often overlapping in unconventional ways.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- exploratory tracks with varied lengths
- whimsical moments of playful energy
- reflective pauses inviting contemplation
- immersive listening for curious minds
- cathartic release through dynamic shifts
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2005, Akron/Family's self-titled debut album marked their introduction to the music scene following their formation in 2001. This record showcased their eclectic sound as they transitioned from a local band to recognized artists, drawing attention for their unique blend of genres and innovative approach.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Fleet Foxes· Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Before and Again 4:36
- 2 Suchness 3:26
- 3 Part of Corey 2:27
- 4 Italy 8:08
- 5 I’ll Be on the Water 3:25
- 6 Running, Returning 4:33
- 7 Afford 3:57
- 8 Interlude: Ak Ak Was the Boat They Sailed in On 2:31
- 9 Sorrow Boy 3:43
- 10 Shoes 3:42
- 11 Lumen 5:30
- 12 How Do I Know 2:30
- 13 Franny/You’re Human 5:58
- 14 [untitled] 6:24
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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