Speaking for Trees cover

Released 22 years ago this October

Speaking for Trees

Cat Power · 2004

119 min · 30 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of stripped-back instrumentation and introspective vocals that creates a meditative atmosphere.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Time Is on My Side Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door — Marshall's rendition transforms this classic into a mournful reflection, highlighting her emotive vocal delivery and unique interpretation of the lyrics.
  • →
    I Don’t Blame You — This track encapsulates the album's theme of vulnerability and resignation, featuring poignant lyrics and a delicate arrangement that showcases Marshall's storytelling prowess.
  • →
    Sad, Sad Song — The song's sparse instrumentation complements its melancholic lyrics, creating a deeply affecting atmosphere that resonates throughout the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intimate moments of quiet reflection
  • dynamic journey with varied pacing
  • haunting vocals for late nights
  • emotional storytelling through sparse instrumentation
  • wave-like flow for deep listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat and fast-paced tracks
  • seek standalone singles over cohesion

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a shift into more experimental sound for Cat Power.
Career context
By the time 'Speaking for Trees' was released in 2004, Cat Power, led by Chan Marshall, was transitioning from her previous work into more experimental territory. This album followed her critically acclaimed 'You Are Free,' showcasing her increasingly confident songwriting and willingness to explore diverse sounds, including elements of jazz and folk.
Stylistic neighbors
Fiona Apple· Angel Olsen· Neko Case

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Time Is on My Side Start here 1:50
  • 2 Night Time / Back of Your Head 3:17
  • 3 Rule the Islands 2:52
  • 4 You 3:52
  • 5 Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door 3:19
  • 6 From Fur City 4:37
  • 7 I Want 4:21
  • 8 Dream / Blue Moon / Try a Little Tenderness 4:49
  • 9 You 4:42
  • 10 From Fur City 6:00
  • 11 Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door 1:50
  • 12 Farewell My Enemy 1:03
  • 13 Sad, Sad Song 4:52
  • 14 Rule the Islands 1:31
  • 15 Evolution 4:00
  • 16 Night Time / Back of Your Head 5:37
  • 17 Sophisticated Lady 0:58
  • 18 I Don’t Blame You 3:48
  • 19 Dream / Blue Moon / Try a Little Tenderness 5:44
  • 20 The Party 2:35
  • 21 Funny Things 3:03
  • 22 Love and Communication 5:30
  • 23 From Fur City 4:40
  • 24 Sad, Sad Song 4:06
  • 25 Night Time / Back of Your Head 2:51
  • 26 Sophisticated Lady 2:00
  • 27 I Want 2:10
  • 28 Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door 4:28
  • 29 Lord Help the Poor and Needy 1:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Willie Deadwilder 18:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata