What makes Grand Forks by Tom Brosseau notable?

Grand Forks received critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise for its lyrical depth and Brosseau's evocative vocal delivery. It solidified Brosseau's position in the contemporary folk music landscape and has been recognized for its influence on emerging singer-songwriters who value narrative-driven compositions. By the release of Grand Forks in January 2007, Tom Brosseau had established himself as a notable figure in the folk scene, following his previous album, 2004's Empty Houses. This album marked a significant moment in his career as it showcased his collaboration with renowned violinist Hillary Hahn, expanding his sonic palette and reaching a wider audience.

Who is Grand Forks for?

Grand Forks works well if you're into intimate storytelling through melodies, short tracks for quick reflection and poignant narratives of rural life.

How many songs are on Grand Forks?

Grand Forks has 9 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Grand Forks

Tom Brosseau · 2007

33 min · 9 tracks · traditional folk music

A tender blend of traditional folk melodies and introspective storytelling, woven with haunting string arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Fly Wherever I Go — Opening the album, this track captures Brosseau's signature storytelling style, combining whimsical imagery with a sense of longing that sets the tone for the entire record.
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Fork in the Road (feat. Hillary Hahn) — This collaboration showcases a beautiful interplay between Brosseau's vocals and Hahn's violin, highlighting the album's exploration of choices and crossroads in life through its poignant lyrics.
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97 Flood — A standout closer, this song reflects on personal and environmental themes, utilizing vivid storytelling to evoke strong emotions tied to memories of loss and resilience.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intimate storytelling through melodies
short tracks for quick reflection
poignant narratives of rural life
evocative imagery in lyrics

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer long, sprawling compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: By the release of Grand Forks in January 2007, Tom Brosseau had established himself as a notable figure in the folk scene, following his previous album, 2004's Empty Houses. This album marked a significant moment in his career as it showcased his collaboration with renowned violinist Hillary Hahn, expanding his sonic palette and reaching a wider audience.
Stylistic neighbors: Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· Nick Drake

Tracklist

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

1 I Fly Wherever I Go 2:58
2 Fork in the Road (feat. Hillary Hahn) 2:53
3 There's More Than One Way to Dance 2:43
4 Blue Part of the Windshield (feat. Hillary Hahn) 4:03
5 Down on Skid Row 2:53
6 Here Comes the Water Now 3:42
7 Plaid Lined Jacket 4:20
8 Dark and Shiny Gun 4:12
9 97 Flood 6:03

What to play next

Listen next

Cavalier

2007

Go back to

Empty Houses Are Lonely

2006

Full Tom Brosseau discography Artists like Tom Brosseau

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata