Out of the Valley cover

Out of the Valley

John Gorka · 1994

49 min · 12 tracks · traditional folk music

Thoughtful folk melodies intertwined with poignant storytelling and warm acoustic instrumentation capture life's complexities.

Why this album works

'Out of the Valley' received critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone praising its lyrical depth and musicality. The album marked Gorka's increasing prominence in the folk genre, contributing to the revitalization of traditional folk music in the 1990s and influencing a new generation of singer-songwriters.
Best for
thoughtful storytelling with warmth steady mid-tempo reflective flow for quiet evenings
Context
In 1994, John Gorka released 'Out of the Valley' as his fourth studio album, following 'Temporary Road' (1990). At this point in his career, Gorka was solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the contemporary folk scene, building on the momentum from previous albums while continuing to refine his introspective songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors
Isabel Parra· John Denver· Iwan Fals

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Good Noise Standout 3:08
  • 2 That's Why 3:22
  • 3 Carnival Knowledge (Second Hand Face) 3:48
  • 4 Talk About Love 3:15
  • 5 Bigtime Lonesome Standout 5:34
  • 6 Furniture 4:49
  • 7 Mystery to Me 3:46
  • 8 Out of the Valley Standout 4:52
  • 9 Thoughtless Behavior 4:25
  • 10 Always Going Home 3:35
  • 11 Flying Red Horse 4:18
  • 12 Up Until Then 4:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata