Still Life
Kevin Morby · 2014
43 min · 10 tracks · indie rock
A contemplative blend of indie rock and alternative country, weaving storytelling with soulful melodies and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Ballad of Arlo Jones — This track encapsulates Morby's knack for narrative-driven songwriting, presenting a vivid character study that resonates throughout the album.
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Drowning — With its haunting melodies and emotional weight, this song showcases Morby’s ability to convey vulnerability, making it a standout moment on the record.
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Amen — Sprawling and meditative, this closing track encapsulates the album’s overarching themes of reflection and closure while highlighting Morby’s vocal strength.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and a cohesive sound, marking Morby's transition to solo artistry.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a steady mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more reflective tone with sparse instrumentation.
- Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies that create an intimate atmosphere, particularly in the choruses.
- The album closes with a gradual fade-out on the final track, allowing for a lingering sense of contemplation.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- 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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- introspective storytelling with depth
- reflective moments for quiet evenings
- thoughtful melodies for solo drives
- gentle pacing inviting contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party tracks
- prefer instant gratification sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Still Life is Kevin Morby's debut solo album, released after his tenure with the band Woods. At this stage in his career, he was transitioning from group dynamics to establishing himself as a distinct solo artist, showcasing his songwriting prowess in a more personal and reflective context.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Waxahatchee· Phoebe Bridgers· Margaret Glaspy
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Jester, the Tramp & The Acrobat 4:22
- 2 The Ballad of Arlo Jones 2:47
- 3 Motors Runnin 3:21
- 4 All of My Life 3:31
- 5 Drowning 5:20
- 6 Bloodsucker 4:26
- 7 Parade 5:26
- 8 Dancer 3:05
- 9 Amen 7:56
- 10 Our Moon 2:51
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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