My Wild West cover

Released 10 years ago

My Wild West

Lissie · 2016

42 min · 12 tracks · country music

A blend of introspective folk and country-infused melodies that explore longing and personal identity against a backdrop of California's vast landscapes.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hollywood — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of disillusionment with fame and the contrasting allure of Hollywood, making it a pivotal moment in Lissie's narrative.
  • →
    Daughters — In 'Daughters', Lissie reflects on generational expectations and the complexities of womanhood, highlighting her ability to tackle personal and societal themes within her music.
  • →
    Go For a Walk — This song stands out for its upbeat melody juxtaposed with introspective lyrics about seeking clarity and peace, representing a sonic departure on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth but remains within familiar genre boundaries.

What we noticed

  • The first track is an instrumental overture that sets a reflective tone, leading into the more lyrical and narrative-driven second track.
  • Several tracks feature a prominent use of acoustic guitar paired with Lissie's vocal harmonies, creating a warm, inviting sound.
  • The album includes moments of dynamic contrast, such as the shift from the subdued 'Daughters' to the more upbeat 'Go For a Walk'.
  • Lyrically, themes of personal struggle and identity are woven throughout, with many songs featuring direct storytelling elements.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • introspective narratives of self-discovery
  • reflective moments for quiet contemplation
  • emotional storytelling with heartfelt delivery
  • gentle melodies for peaceful afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer instant gratification over depth

Where this album fits

Career context
Released as Lissie's third studio album, My Wild West marked a significant shift after her previous album, Back to Forever, which was more polished. At this point in her career, she navigated personal struggles and the complexities of fame, channeling these experiences into her songwriting and sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Brandi Carlile· The Civil Wars· Neko Case

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Daughters

    The bridge shifts from personal reflection to a broader commentary on women's roles in society.

    By expanding the focus from individual experience to collective identity, Lissie deepens the emotional impact and invites listeners into a shared dialogue.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 My Wild West Overture 1:14
  • 2 Hollywood 3:41
  • 3 Wild West 3:50
  • 4 Hero 3:33
  • 5 Sun Keeps Risin’ 4:28
  • 6 Don’t You Give Up On Me 4:16
  • 7 Stay 3:29
  • 8 Daughters 4:17
  • 9 Together or Apart 3:52
  • 10 Shroud 3:17
  • 11 Go For a Walk 3:27
  • 12 Ojai 3:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata