The Letting Go cover

The Letting Go

Will Oldham · 2006

58 min · 13 tracks · country · folk · indie rock

A haunting blend of folk and country, woven with Oldham's introspective lyricism and sparse instrumentation.

Why this album works

'The Letting Go' received widespread critical acclaim, landing on numerous year-end best lists and reinforcing Oldham's status in the indie music scene. It has been noted for its lyrical poignancy and was influential within the alt-country genre, impacting subsequent artists who sought to blend traditional folk sounds with modern sensibilities.
Best for
haunting reflections on love wave-like pacing with peaks introspective moments of solitude
Context
Released in 2006, 'The Letting Go' is Will Oldham's first album after adopting the Bonnie 'Prince' Billy moniker for several years. This period marked a significant evolution in his sound, embracing a more polished production style while still retaining his characteristic emotional depth. The album followed his critically acclaimed release 'Master and Everyone' from 2003, showcasing Oldham's continued exploration of themes surrounding love and loss.
Stylistic neighbors
John Mayer· Neko Case· Taylor Swift

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Love Comes to Me 4:31
  • 2 Strange Form of Life Standout 3:46
  • 3 Wai 3:37
  • 4 Cursed Sleep Standout 5:35
  • 5 No Bad News 4:45
  • 6 Cold & Wet 2:21
  • 7 Big Friday 2:43
  • 8 Lay and Love 3:50
  • 9 The Seedling 4:36
  • 10 Then the Letting Go Standout 5:19
  • 11 God's Small Song 4:03
  • 12 I Called You Back 7:51
  • 13 Ebb Tide 5:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata