Mermaid Avenue
Wilco · 1998
49 min · 15 tracks · alternative country
A blend of folk, rock, and alternative country that breathes new life into Woody Guthrie's unfinished lyrics.
Why this album works
- Best for
- thoughtful reflective listening sessions gentle melodic storytelling vibes nostalgic and introspective moods
- Context
- Released in 1998, 'Mermaid Avenue' was Wilco's third studio album and their first collaboration with Billy Bragg. This project marked a significant shift towards a more experimental sound, following their critically acclaimed album 'Being There'. At this point in their career, Wilco was beginning to carve out a unique identity within the alternative country scene.
- If you like
- alternative country
Mermaid Avenue is an album by Wilco, released in 1998. A blend of folk, rock, and alternative country that breathes new life into Woody Guthrie's unfinished lyrics. 'Mermaid Avenue' is notable for reviving interest in Woody Guthrie's unreleased lyrics, showcasing how contemporary artists can reinterpret historical texts. The album received widespread acclaim, reaching No. 27 on the Billboard 200 and solidifying Wilco's reputation as innovative musicians in the late '90s folk revival. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mermaid Avenue sound like?
A blend of folk, rock, and alternative country that breathes new life into Woody Guthrie's unfinished lyrics. Rooted in alternative country.
What makes Mermaid Avenue by Wilco notable?
'Mermaid Avenue' is notable for reviving interest in Woody Guthrie's unreleased lyrics, showcasing how contemporary artists can reinterpret historical texts. The album received widespread acclaim, reaching No. 27 on the Billboard 200 and solidifying Wilco's reputation as innovative musicians in the late '90s folk revival. Released in 1998, 'Mermaid Avenue' was Wilco's third studio album and their first collaboration with Billy Bragg. This project marked a significant shift towards a more experimental sound, following their critically acclaimed album 'Being There'. At this point in their career, Wilco was beginning to carve out a unique identity within the alternative country scene.
Who is Mermaid Avenue for?
Mermaid Avenue works well if you're into thoughtful reflective listening sessions, gentle melodic storytelling vibes and nostalgic and introspective moods.
How many songs are on Mermaid Avenue?
Mermaid Avenue has 15 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Walt Whitman’s Niece 3:54
- 2 California Stars Standout 4:58
- 3 Way Over Yonder in the Minor Key 4:06
- 4 Birds and Ships Standout 2:15
- 5 Hoodoo Voodoo Standout 3:12
- 6 She Came Along to Me 3:28
- 7 At My Window Sad and Lonely 3:27
- 8 Ingrid Bergman 1:50
- 9 Christ for President 2:42
- 10 I Guess I Planted 3:33
- 11 One by One 3:25
- 12 Eisler on the Go 2:57
- 13 Hesitating Beauty 3:05
- 14 Another Man’s Done Gone 1:36
- 15 The Unwelcome Guest 5:05
Release Date
January 1, 1998
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
49 min 40 sec
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