Is Supernova a good place to start with Ray LaMontagne?

Yes, Supernova is recommended as a starting point for new Ray LaMontagne listeners. A fusion of folk melodies with psychedelic undertones, creating a reflective and immersive listening experience. Supernova is Ray LaMontagne's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed release of God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise in 2010. At this stage in his career, LaMontagne was exploring new sonic textures, collaborating with producer Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, which marked a shift toward a more eclectic sound compared to his earlier work.

Who is Supernova for?

Supernova works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, warm vocals for cozy evenings and introspective melodies for solitude.

How many songs are on Supernova?

Supernova has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Supernova

Ray LaMontagne · 2014

42 min · 10 tracks · folk music

A fusion of folk melodies with psychedelic undertones, creating a reflective and immersive listening experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Supernova — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of love and self-discovery through ethereal instrumentation and vivid imagery, making it a centerpiece of emotional resonance.
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Lavender Start here — Opening with an enchanting blend of harmonies and dreamy guitar riffs, this song sets the tone for the album's introspective journey while highlighting LaMontagne's lyrical finesse.
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Airwaves — This track showcases a catchy chorus layered over intricate melodies, reflecting a shift towards a more upbeat sound that complements the album's diverse sonic palette.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk and psychedelic elements effectively, showcasing strong craftsmanship and unique moments.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature layered instrumentation with a prominent use of electric guitar, creating a rich soundscape that contrasts with LaMontagne's typically acoustic style.
Several tracks incorporate unexpected tempo changes, particularly in 'Pick Up a Gun' where the rhythm shifts abruptly midway through.
The album closes with 'Drive-In Movies', which features an extended instrumental outro that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering atmosphere.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
warm vocals for cozy evenings
introspective melodies for solitude
rich textures for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy excitement
prefer quick, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — The album explores new sounds, marking a departure from LaMontagne's established style.
Themes: ethereal love· psychedelic self-discovery· dreamy guitar landscapes
Career context: Supernova is Ray LaMontagne's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed release of God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise in 2010. At this stage in his career, LaMontagne was exploring new sonic textures, collaborating with producer Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, which marked a shift toward a more eclectic sound compared to his earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron & Wine· Damien Rice· Nick Drake