Released 17 years ago this October
Skitter on Take-Off
Vic Chesnutt · 2009
39 min · 9 tracks · country music
A raw and introspective blend of folk rock and country, layered with dark humor and poignant storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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Feast in the Time of Plague — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melody and sharp commentary on societal decay, showcasing Chesnutt's ability to weave dark humor into serious themes.
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Dick Cheney — With biting satire, this track critiques political figures while maintaining Chesnutt's signature wit, demonstrating his talent for blending personal narrative with broader social critique.
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Worst Friend — This lengthy exploration of friendship reveals raw vulnerability through its intricate storytelling and emotional depth, encapsulating the album’s reflective nature.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's raw storytelling and unique vocal style create a distinct listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of sparse instrumentation, often relying on acoustic guitar and minimal percussion to highlight the lyrics.
- Chesnutt's vocal delivery fluctuates between spoken word and melodic singing, creating an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in.
- Several tracks employ abrupt transitions, such as 'Dick Cheney' which shifts from a reflective tone to a more aggressive delivery, adding to the album's emotional complexity.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Society Sue
The narrator confronts societal expectations directly shifts tone dramatically midway through the song.
This shift emphasizes the internal conflict between acceptance and resistance, adding complexity to the character's struggle.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Feast in the Time of Plague 3:54
- 2 Unpacking My Suitcase 3:20
- 3 Dimples 4:11
- 4 Rips in the Fabric 6:03
- 5 Society Sue 2:52
- 6 My New Life 4:13
- 7 Dick Cheney 3:20
- 8 Worst Friend 7:49
- 9 Sewing Machine 4:01
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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