What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World cover

What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World

The Decemberists · 2015

53 min · 14 tracks · art rock

A tapestry of narrative-driven songs blending whimsy and melancholy with lush instrumentation and incisive lyrics.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • whimsical storytelling with depth
  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • narrative-driven songs for contemplation
  • lush instrumentation inviting exploration
  • cathartic reflections on beauty

Maybe skip if you want

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer instant gratification music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 20, 2015, 'What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World' marked The Decemberists' first album in four years and their return after a hiatus following the 2011 release of 'The King Is Dead.' This album illustrated a creative evolution for the band, showcasing their ability to blend personal introspection with broader societal themes while still retaining their signature storytelling style.
Stylistic neighbors
Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· Fleet Foxes

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Singer Addresses His Audience 4:42
  • 2 Cavalry Captain 3:17
  • 3 Philomena 3:04
  • 4 Make You Better 5:07
  • 5 Lake Song 5:52
  • 6 Till the Water’s All Long Gone 5:01
  • 7 The Wrong Year 3:53
  • 8 Carolina Low 3:24
  • 9 Better Not Wake the Baby 1:44
  • 10 Anti‐Summersong 2:12
  • 11 Easy Come, Easy Go 2:22
  • 12 Mistral 3:54
  • 13 12/17/12 3:03
  • 14 A Beginning Song 5:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata