III/IV cover

III/IV

Ryan Adams · 2010

67 min · 21 tracks · country music

A raw and introspective blend of rock and country, layered with emotional honesty and understated melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    Breakdown Into the Resolve Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Wasteland — This track encapsulates the album's theme of despair and longing, featuring haunting melodies that amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics.
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    Gracie — A poignant tribute, this song stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and intimate vocal delivery, showcasing Adams' ability to connect on a personal level.
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    Kill the Lights — The lengthy closing track contrasts with the album's shorter pieces, offering an expansive soundscape that invites listeners into a deeper introspection of Adams' psyche.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative late-night reflections
  • layered, dense sonic textures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — III/IV showcases emotional depth but isn't a major entry point for new listeners.
Themes
personal turmoil· intimate storytelling· emotional wasteland
Career context
At the time of releasing III/IV in December 2010, Ryan Adams was navigating a tumultuous phase in his career, following his highly acclaimed album Cardinology from 2008. This release marked a return to a more experimental sound after a brief hiatus during which he faced personal challenges, including health issues and marital changes.
Stylistic neighbors
Jason Isbell· Jeff Tweedy· Sturgill Simpson
New to Ryan Adams? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Breakdown Into the Resolve Start here 4:01
  • 2 Dear Candy 2:31
  • 3 Wasteland 3:13
  • 4 Ultraviolet Light 3:42
  • 5 Stop Playing With My Heart 2:39
  • 6 Lovely and Blue 2:33
  • 7 Happy Birthday 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

What to play next

Orion
Listen next

Orion

2010

It continues the introspective sound with a blend of rock and country elements.
Easy Tiger
Go back to

Easy Tiger

2007
Full Ryan Adams discography Where to start with Ryan Adams Artists like Ryan Adams

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata