What makes More Rain by M. Ward notable?

More Rain received positive reviews from critics, reflecting Ward's consistent ability to craft engaging music. It debuted at number 26 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a solid entry in his discography. The album also contributed to the ongoing conversation about the blending of genres within the indie music community, influencing emerging artists who sought to merge traditional folk with modern sensibilities. Released on March 4, 2016, More Rain is M. Ward's eighth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Post-War from 2006. By this point, Ward had established himself as a respected figure in the indie folk scene, known for his distinctive voice and songwriting style. The album continues to showcase his evolution as an artist while embracing a more experimental approach in sound and lyrical themes.

Who is More Rain for?

More Rain works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, whimsical melodies for sunny days and thoughtful tunes for introspective listening.

How many songs are on More Rain?

More Rain has 12 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

More Rain

M. Ward · 2016

37 min · 12 tracks · folk music

A whimsical blend of folk melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in warm, lo-fi production that invites reflection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Pirate Dial — This track stands out with its playful narrative and catchy melody, showcasing Ward's knack for storytelling while maintaining an infectious rhythm.
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Time Won’t Wait — With its reflective lyrics and gentle instrumentation, this song encapsulates the album’s theme of time slipping away, enhancing its emotional depth.
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Girl From Conejo Valley — This track combines vivid imagery with a nostalgic feel, highlighting Ward's ability to evoke a sense of place and personal connection through his songwriting.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

M. Ward's 'More Rain' blends whimsical folk melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing solid craftsmanship and unique textures.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features layered vocals and a steady, mid-tempo rhythm, setting a reflective tone.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as the use of toy instruments and field recordings, adding texture to the sound.
The last three tracks gradually slow down in tempo, creating a sense of winding down and introspection as the album concludes.

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

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
whimsical melodies for sunny days
thoughtful tunes for introspective listening
short tracks for casual enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer longer, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 4, 2016, More Rain is M. Ward's eighth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Post-War from 2006. By this point, Ward had established himself as a respected figure in the indie folk scene, known for his distinctive voice and songwriting style. The album continues to showcase his evolution as an artist while embracing a more experimental approach in sound and lyrical themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron & Wine· Sufjan Stevens· Nick Drake