What makes Notes of Blue by Son Volt notable?

Notes of Blue received critical acclaim upon its release, with several publications highlighting its introspective songwriting and musical cohesion. The album debuted at number 29 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, showcasing Son Volt's enduring appeal in the roots music scene. Released as Son Volt's seventh studio album, Notes of Blue marked a return for the band after a five-year hiatus following their previous record, Honky Tonk. In this phase of their career, frontman Jay Farrar continued to explore themes of loss and resilience, further defining the band's distinct sound within the alternative country genre.

Who is Notes of Blue for?

Notes of Blue works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, short tracks for quick engagement and melodic storytelling with emotional depth.

How many songs are on Notes of Blue?

Notes of Blue has 10 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Notes of Blue

Son Volt · 2017

30 min · 10 tracks · alternative country

A reflective blend of alternative country and Americana, wrapped in poignant lyrics and rich instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Promise the World — This opening track sets a contemplative tone for the album, blending lush melodies with reflective lyrics that encapsulate themes of hope and struggle.
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Cherokee St. — With its vivid storytelling and thematic depth, this track showcases Farrar's lyrical prowess while painting a compelling picture of urban life and personal history.
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The Storm — The song's urgent rhythm and evocative lyrics explore themes of turmoil and change, making it a standout moment that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album features strong songwriting and cohesive arrangements, though it doesn't break new ground in its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a steady mid-tempo track that sets a reflective tone, which is maintained through the first half.
Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, including strings and pedal steel, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The last three tracks slow down significantly, creating a contemplative atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier songs.

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: 8/10

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

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
short tracks for quick engagement
melodic storytelling with emotional depth
ideal for introspective afternoons

Maybe skip if you

prefer long, sprawling compositions
seek high-energy party anthems

Where this album fits

Career context: Released as Son Volt's seventh studio album, Notes of Blue marked a return for the band after a five-year hiatus following their previous record, Honky Tonk. In this phase of their career, frontman Jay Farrar continued to explore themes of loss and resilience, further defining the band's distinct sound within the alternative country genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Uncle Tupelo· Wilco· Ryan Adams