Pretty Much Your Standard Ranch Stash
Michael Nesmith · 1973
31 min · 7 tracks · country music
A blend of folk-infused country sounds with whimsical storytelling, capturing a laid-back, nostalgic Americana vibe.
Top tracks — play these first
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Some of Shelly’s Blues — This track stands out for its intricate melody and introspective lyrics that reflect on love and longing, showcasing Nesmith's lyrical prowess.
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Winonah — The song combines charming storytelling with a catchy chorus, illustrating Nesmith's skill at blending narrative with melodic appeal.
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The Back Porch and a Fruit Jar Full of Iced Tea: The F. F. V. / Uncle Pen — This lengthy track captures the essence of Americana through its vivid imagery and relaxed tempo, making it a highlight of the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends folk and country elements with storytelling, creating a distinctive yet accessible sound.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature intricate harmonies and layered vocals, particularly in 'Some of Shelly’s Blues' which showcases a call-and-response structure.
- The final track, 'Prairie Lullaby', features a slow tempo and gentle instrumentation that contrasts with the more upbeat songs earlier in the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- laid-back storytelling with nostalgia
- short tracks for easy enjoyment
- for sunny afternoons
- whimsical tunes for relaxed vibes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic music
- want complex, lengthy compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1973, Pretty Much Your Standard Ranch Stash was Michael Nesmith's fifth solo album, following his successful post-Monkees career. At this point, he had firmly established himself as a solo artist and songwriter, exploring more personal themes and musical styles distinct from his earlier work with the Monkees.
- Stylistic neighbors
- James Taylor· Gordon Lightfoot· John Denver
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Continuing 3:54
- 2 Some of Shelly’s Blues 3:21
- 3 Release 3:50
- 4 Winonah 3:51
- 5 Born to Love You 3:53
- 6 The Back Porch and a Fruit Jar Full of Iced Tea: The F. F. V. / Uncle Pen 8:11
- 7 Prairie Lullaby 4:04
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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