III/IV cover

III/IV

Ryan Adams · 2010

67 min · 21 tracks · country

A lo-fi blend of introspective lyrics and acoustic textures evokes a sense of melancholic nostalgia throughout the album.

Why this album works

'III/IV' was well-received by critics, praised for its raw sound and emotional depth, contributing to Adams' reputation as a leading figure in alternative country. The album's release was notable for reviving interest in his extensive catalog and highlighting his ability to craft compelling narratives through concise songwriting.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys contemplative late-night reflections
Context
Released on December 14, 2010, 'III/IV' came shortly after Ryan Adams' prolific and often tumultuous career phase, marking his return to music following the release of 'Cardinology' in 2008. This collection showcased a more experimental side as it compiled unreleased tracks from earlier sessions, reflecting his ongoing artistic evolution during this period.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Breakdown Into the Resolve Standout 4:01
  • 2 Dear Candy 2:31
  • 3 Wasteland Standout 3:13
  • 4 Ultraviolet Light 3:42
  • 5 Stop Playing With My Heart 2:39
  • 6 Lovely and Blue 2:33
  • 7 Happy Birthday Standout 2:27
  • 8 Kisses Start Wars 2:56
  • 9 The Crystal Skull 3:33
  • 10 Users 2:59

Disc 2

  • 1 No 3:04
  • 2 Numbers 2:53
  • 3 Gracie 3:30
  • 4 Icebreaker 2:13
  • 5 Sewers at the Bottom of the Wishing Well 2:42
  • 6 Typecast 3:18
  • 7 Star Wars 2:44
  • 8 My Favorite Song 3:14
  • 9 P.S. 2:44
  • 10 Death and Rats 2:34
  • 11 Kill the Lights 7:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata