What makes Want Two by Rufus Wainwright notable?

Want Two received critical acclaim upon its release, appearing on several year-end lists as one of the best albums of 2004. The album further established Wainwright's reputation as a significant figure in the indie pop genre, influencing a wave of singer-songwriters that followed. Released in January 2004, Want Two is Rufus Wainwright's third studio album, following his acclaimed 2003 release, Want One. At this point in his career, Wainwright was solidifying his artistic identity, moving from the success of his previous albums into more ambitious and complex compositions.

Want Two works well if you're into wave-like pacing for reflection, lush orchestral arrangements throughout and theatrical moments of introspection.

How many songs are on Want Two?

Want Two has 14 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Want Two

Rufus Wainwright · 2004

60 min · 14 tracks · indie pop

Lush orchestral arrangements intertwine with intimate piano melodies, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Art Teacher — This track stands out for its poignant narrative about unrequited love and longing, encapsulated in a hauntingly beautiful melody that lingers with the listener.
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Gay Messiah — This bold song tackles themes of identity and acceptance, combining playful lyrics with anthemic choruses that resonate within LGBTQ+ communities and beyond.
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Peach Trees — With its reflective lyrics and lush instrumentation, this track serves as a meditation on nostalgia and personal growth, showcasing Wainwright's lyrical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Wainwright's lush arrangements and vivid storytelling create a distinctive yet cohesive sound throughout the album.

What we noticed

The album opens with a choral piece, 'Agnus Dei', which sets a solemn tone before transitioning into more melodic tracks.
Several tracks feature orchestral arrangements that swell and recede, creating dynamic contrasts between intimacy and grandeur.
The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and storytelling, with songs like 'The Art Teacher' presenting a narrative arc across its verses.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

wave-like pacing for reflection
lush orchestral arrangements throughout
theatrical moments of introspection
poignant storytelling with emotional depth

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — This album showcases Wainwright's artistic ambition and received significant acclaim.
Career context: Released in January 2004, Want Two is Rufus Wainwright's third studio album, following his acclaimed 2003 release, Want One. At this point in his career, Wainwright was solidifying his artistic identity, moving from the success of his previous albums into more ambitious and complex compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: Ben Folds· Sufjan Stevens· Regina Spektor