Cruel Country
Wilco · 2022
77 min · 21 tracks · alternative country
A sprawling exploration of Americana infused with introspective lyrics and Wilco's signature experimental sound.
Why this album works
'Cruel Country' received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of contemporary America, debuting at number one on the Billboard Americana/Folk Albums chart. Its blend of alternative country and experimental sound has influenced a wave of artists exploring similar thematic territory, cementing Wilco's role as pivotal figures in the modern Americana scene.
- Best for
- dynamic exploration of themes introspective lyrics for reflection gentle wave-like pacing
- Context
- When 'Cruel Country' was released on May 27, 2022, Wilco was in a period of reflection and artistic maturation, following their 2019 album 'Ode to Joy'. This marked their first record after a brief hiatus from extensive touring due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing them to delve deeper into themes of identity and place within the American landscape.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Old Crow Medicine Show· Big Thief· Dave Alvin
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 I Am My Mother Standout 2:36
- 2 Cruel Country Standout 3:26
- 3 Hints 3:38
- 4 Ambulance Standout 3:11
- 5 The Empty Condor 3:53
- 6 Tonight’s the Day 3:26
- 7 All Across the World 3:42
- 8 Darkness Is Cheap 3:19
- 9 Bird Without a Tail / Base of My Skull 5:04
- 10 Tired of Taking It Out on You 3:36
- 11 The Universe 3:36
Disc 2
- 1 Many Worlds 7:53
- 2 Hearts Hard to Find 3:27
- 3 Falling Apart (Right Now) 3:18
- 4 Please Be Wrong 3:01
- 5 Story to Tell 4:08
- 6 A Lifetime to Find 4:07
- 7 Country Song Upside-Down 2:46
- 8 Mystery Binds 3:08
- 9 Sad Kind of Way 2:48
- 10 The Plains 3:11
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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