What makes Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down by Ry Cooder notable?

Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down received critical acclaim upon release, with particular praise for its sharp societal commentary and lyrical depth. The album reached number 26 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums chart, showcasing Cooder's enduring relevance in contemporary music and solidifying his influence within the Americana genre. By the time Ry Cooder released this album in 2011, he was already an established figure in roots music, known for his pioneering work in blending various genres. This album marked his first release since 2008's 'I, Flathead', continuing his exploration of American culture through a musical lens. Cooder’s career had evolved from his early days as a session musician into a solo artist whose work often reflects social and political themes.

Who is Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down for?

Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, reflective storytelling moments and long, immersive listening sessions.

How many songs are on Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down?

Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down has 14 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down

Ry Cooder · 2011

61 min · 14 tracks · blues

A rich tapestry of Americana and blues, blending social critique with heartfelt storytelling through diverse musical styles.

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Top tracks — play these first

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No Banker Left Behind — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its biting critique of corporate greed, using clever wordplay to highlight economic injustices.
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Baby Joined the Army — This song poignantly addresses themes of patriotism and sacrifice, contrasting idealism with the harsh realities faced by soldiers and their families.
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John Lee Hooker for President — With a playful yet serious tone, this track imagines a world where blues legend John Lee Hooker is a political leader, emphasizing the power of music as a form of protest.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Cooder's blend of blues and Americana with sharp lyrics creates a distinctive sound that resonates well over time.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature varied instrumentation, including horns and strings, which enhance the narrative quality of the lyrics.
The pacing shifts between mid-tempo grooves and slower ballads, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the more upbeat tracks.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

dynamic emotional journeys
reflective storytelling moments
long, immersive listening sessions
wave-like pacing dynamics

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Ry Cooder released this album in 2011, he was already an established figure in roots music, known for his pioneering work in blending various genres. This album marked his first release since 2008's 'I, Flathead', continuing his exploration of American culture through a musical lens. Cooder’s career had evolved from his early days as a session musician into a solo artist whose work often reflects social and political themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Leonard Cohen· John Prine· David Lindley