Around the Well cover

Around the Well

Iron & Wine · 2009

93 min · 23 tracks · country · folk

A tender tapestry of folk melodies and introspective lyrics woven together with intricate instrumentation.

Why this album works

The album received positive reviews across various platforms, contributing to Iron & Wine's continued success in the indie music landscape. It peaked at number 91 on the Billboard 200 and emphasized Beam's artistry by offering fans deeper insights into his creative process through rare tracks. The compilation also highlighted the breadth of his musical style, influencing a generation of indie and folk artists.
Best for
introspective moments of quiet reflection dynamic exploration with emotional peaks tender melodies for cozy evenings
Context
Around the Well is a compilation album released in 2009, following Iron & Wine's acclaimed album The Shepherd's Dog from 2007. This collection showcases previously unreleased tracks alongside live recordings, illuminating the evolution of Sam Beam's songwriting during his rise to prominence in the indie folk scene. At this point in his career, Beam was solidifying his reputation as a poignant storyteller and an influential figure in folk music.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Dearest Forsaken 3:49
  • 2 Morning 2:41
  • 3 Loud as Hope 2:56
  • 4 Peng! 33 3:28
  • 5 Sacred Vision 3:19
  • 6 Friends They Are Jewels Standout 4:14
  • 7 Hickory 4:35
  • 8 Waitin' for a Superman 4:34
  • 9 Swans and the Swimming 3:24
  • 10 Call Your Boys 3:47
  • 11 Such Great Heights Standout 4:11

Disc 2

  • 1 Communion Cups and Someone's Coat 2:02
  • 2 Belated Promise Ring 3:45
  • 3 God Made the Automobile 3:54
  • 4 Homeward, These Shoes 1:34
  • 5 Love Vigilantes 3:26
  • 6 Sinning Hands 5:30
  • 7 No Moon 4:15
  • 8 Serpent Charmer 2:39
  • 9 Carried Home 6:31
  • 10 Kingdom of the Animals 5:05
  • 11 Arms of a Thief 3:41
  • 12 The Trapeze Swinger Standout 9:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata