What makes Many Colored Kite by Mark Olson notable?

Many Colored Kite received positive critical acclaim, particularly for its lyrical depth and melodic richness, helping to solidify Olson's reputation as a solo artist. It also garnered attention within the Americana music scene, contributing to the resurgence of interest in traditional folk-inspired sounds during this period. In 2010, Mark Olson released Many Colored Kite as his first solo album after a decade-long hiatus from music following the disbandment of The Jayhawks. This album marked a significant return to form for Olson, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter and highlighting his distinct blend of folk and country influences.

How many songs are on Many Colored Kite?

Many Colored Kite has 11 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Many Colored Kite

Mark Olson · 2010

42 min · 11 tracks · country music

A gentle tapestry of folk melodies and country storytelling woven with introspective lyricism and warm instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Little Bird of Freedom — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its delicate melodies and themes of liberation, encapsulating Olson's reflective songwriting style.
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Many Colored Kite — The title track blends vivid imagery with an uplifting melody, embodying the album's exploration of hope and transformation through its rich instrumental backdrop.
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No Time to Live Without Her — This poignant ballad showcases Olson's ability to convey deep emotion through simple yet powerful lyrics, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album features introspective lyrics and warm melodies, creating a cohesive listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a gentle acoustic guitar melody that sets a reflective tone, which is maintained throughout the first half.
Many tracks feature layered harmonies and soft instrumentation, creating a warm, inviting soundscape.
Several songs incorporate storytelling elements in their lyrics, often reflecting on personal experiences and nature.
The final track concludes with a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of introspection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

1 Little Bird of Freedom 4:11
2 Morning Dove 4:34
3 Many Colored Kite 3:52
4 Bluebell Song 3:37
5 Beehive 3:41
6 No Time to Live Without Her 3:48
7 Your Life Beside Us 4:56
8 Scholastica 3:22
9 Kingsnake 3:04
10 Wind and Rain 3:41
11 More Hours 3:48

What to play next

Listen next

Good-bye Lizelle

2014

Go back to

Ready for the Flood

2008

Full Mark Olson discography Artists like Mark Olson

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata