Six and Six cover

Six and Six

Jandek · 1981

43 min · 9 tracks · blues

An experimental blend of blues and folk that ventures into haunting dissonance and introspective lyricism.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Knew You Would Leave — This lengthy track exemplifies Jandek's signature style, featuring sparse instrumentation and deeply personal lyrics that explore themes of loss and abandonment.
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    Forgive Me — The emotional core of the album, this track combines haunting melodies with an introspective narrative that captures vulnerability in a stark manner.
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    Wild Strawberries — This piece stands out for its evocative imagery and exploration of nature, reflecting Jandek's ability to intertwine simple observations with complex emotional landscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100
Foothills
Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental nature and unique vocal style contribute to its distinctiveness within the blues genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features a sparse arrangement, often relying on minimal instrumentation that allows the vocals to dominate.
  • Several songs incorporate spoken word elements alongside singing, blurring the lines between poetry and music.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
5/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 pacing with gradual build
  • haunting soundscapes for introspection
  • isolated listening in quiet spaces
  • reflective moments of self-discovery

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat or energetic tracks
  • prefer instant gratification sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1981, Six and Six was Jandek's third album, following his debut Ready for the House and its follow-up, Each Life Is a Dream. At this point in his career, Jandek was establishing his unique sound within the outsider music scene, characterized by unconventional song structures and raw emotional delivery.
Stylistic neighbors
The Residents· Daniel Johnston· Scott Walker

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Feathered Drums 3:32
  • 2 Point Judith 4:12
  • 3 I Knew You Would Leave 10:18
  • 4 Can I See Your Clock 2:54
  • 5 Wild Strawberries 6:04
  • 6 Forgive Me 4:01
  • 7 Hilltop Serenade 5:26
  • 8 You’re the Best One 3:02
  • 9 Delinquent Words 3:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata