What makes Outlasting the Blues by Arlo Guthrie notable?

Outlasting the Blues received positive critical reception, showcasing Guthrie's ability to weave personal narratives with broader themes of social consciousness. The album continued to influence folk artists who followed, demonstrating how storytelling through music can resonate deeply with listeners. It reflects significant cultural moments from the late 70s, echoing sentiments of change and reflection. Released in 1979, Outlasting the Blues was Arlo Guthrie's follow-up to his acclaimed album, Hobo's Lullaby. By this time, Guthrie had established himself as a pivotal figure in the folk music scene, known for his narrative songwriting style and social commentary. The album further solidified his position during a period when folk music was experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

Who is Outlasting the Blues for?

Outlasting the Blues works well if you're into reflective storytelling in melodies, warm acoustic arrangements throughout and for quiet afternoons.

How many songs are on Outlasting the Blues?

Outlasting the Blues has 11 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Outlasting the Blues

Arlo Guthrie · 1979

35 min · 11 tracks · folk music

A reflective blend of folk melodies and storytelling that captures the essence of American life in the late 70s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Which Side — This track serves as a powerful anthem questioning social divisions and choices, encapsulating Guthrie’s commitment to activism through music.
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Sailing Down This Golden River — With its evocative imagery, this song highlights Guthrie's signature lyricism while exploring themes of hope and journey.
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Drowning Man — This track stands out for its emotional depth, illustrating personal struggle against societal pressures with poignant storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Guthrie's storytelling shines through varied melodies, though some tracks feel less impactful than others.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature intricate guitar work that complements the storytelling, particularly in 'Sailing Down This Golden River' and 'Drowning Man'.

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

Influence 4/10

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

reflective storytelling in melodies
warm acoustic arrangements throughout
for quiet afternoons
short tracks for easy digesting

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy excitement
prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1979, Outlasting the Blues was Arlo Guthrie's follow-up to his acclaimed album, Hobo's Lullaby. By this time, Guthrie had established himself as a pivotal figure in the folk music scene, known for his narrative songwriting style and social commentary. The album further solidified his position during a period when folk music was experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
Stylistic neighbors: Woody Guthrie· Pete Seeger· Bob Dylan

Tracklist

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

1 Prologue 3:34
2 Which Side 4:16
3 Wedding Song 3:53
4 World Away From Me 3:23
5 Epilogue 2:58
6 Telephone 2:03
7 Sailing Down This Golden River 3:03
8 Carry Me Over 3:03
9 Underground 1:17
10 Drowning Man 3:28
11 Evangelina 4:21

What to play next

Listen next

Power of Love

1981

Go back to

The Best of Arlo Guthrie

1977

Full Arlo Guthrie discography Artists like Arlo Guthrie

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata