You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen · 2016
36 min · 9 tracks · blues · folk rock · pop rock
A haunting exploration of mortality, blending sparse instrumentation with Cohen's gravelly, contemplative vocals.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady reflective listening experience haunting exploration of mortality thoughtful moments of introspection
- Context
- Released on October 1, 2016, 'You Want It Darker' was Leonard Cohen's final studio album, coming three years after 'Popular Problems'. At this point in his career, Cohen was revered not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a literary figure, having published several books of poetry and prose. His exploration of themes like faith and death deepened in this late stage of his artistic life.
- If you like
- blues, folk rock, pop rock
You Want It Darker is an album by Leonard Cohen, released in 2016. A haunting exploration of mortality, blending sparse instrumentation with Cohen's gravelly, contemplative vocals. The album received widespread critical acclaim, debuting at number one on the Canadian Albums Chart and reaching the top ten in several other countries. Notably, it earned Cohen a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album posthumously, solidifying his legacy as a profound voice in music and literature. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does You Want It Darker sound like?
A haunting exploration of mortality, blending sparse instrumentation with Cohen's gravelly, contemplative vocals. Rooted in blues and folk rock.
What makes You Want It Darker by Leonard Cohen notable?
The album received widespread critical acclaim, debuting at number one on the Canadian Albums Chart and reaching the top ten in several other countries. Notably, it earned Cohen a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album posthumously, solidifying his legacy as a profound voice in music and literature. Released on October 1, 2016, 'You Want It Darker' was Leonard Cohen's final studio album, coming three years after 'Popular Problems'. At this point in his career, Cohen was revered not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a literary figure, having published several books of poetry and prose. His exploration of themes like faith and death deepened in this late stage of his artistic life.
Who is You Want It Darker for?
You Want It Darker works well if you're into steady reflective listening experience, haunting exploration of mortality and thoughtful moments of introspection.
How many songs are on You Want It Darker?
You Want It Darker has 9 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 You Want It Darker Standout 4:44
- 2 Treaty Standout 4:02
- 3 On the Level 3:28
- 4 Leaving the Table Standout 3:47
- 5 If I Didn’t Have Your Love 3:36
- 6 Traveling Light 4:22
- 7 It Seemed the Better Way 4:22
- 8 Steer Your Way 4:23
- 9 String Reprise / Treaty 3:27
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