Illinois

The 2 disc, triple gatefold cover is a beautiful means of presenting this brilliant music. No clicks, pops and backgroud noise allowing me to concentrate on music that I can only describe as genius. The musical arrangements, lyrics (there's lots of them!) and contributions from other musicians is outstanding. James McAlister (drums). The string quartet Rob Moose, Julianne Carney, Marla Hanson and Maria Bella Jeffers. To name a few who make this masterpiece possible. The vocal harmonies are wonderful too.I'm not a big fan of most of SS's vast musical output however if you like this you might also like 'The Avalanche' and 'Carrie & Lowell'. His other awesome contributions to music.

Doesn't really need any promotion but if you like Sufjan and haven't heard this yet then its an essential listen. Its his best, most realised album in my opinion and I never tire of listening to it. At the price for the vinyl I would say don't hesitate and go for it

This is the second (and so far last) of the 50 state epic concept album projects that got under way with Michigan, over which this is a considerable advance. Stevens' conversational and reflective style - I always feel I'm an outsider being drawn in to an oblique conversation between his emotional and experiential consciousness - leads to beautiful expression in songs like Predatory Wasp and Casimir. Simply stunning, and though it doesn't seem likely, I would really love to see the other 48 states tackled!

This inspired concept album is incredibly rich and varied in its themes, musical styles and presentation. The lyrics are poetic whilst the music may be characterized as soulful folk-pop with orchestral infusions. The banjo plays a leading role but there are some scattered bursts of electrical guitar here and there.The songs encompass emotions from joy to melancholy, and are interspersed with colorfully titled brief instrumental snippets like A Short Reprise for Mary Todd or vocal ones like One Last Woohoo for the Pullman. For all its dazzling variety, the album is surprisingly cohesive and the following are my personal favorites:The celebratory Come On Feel The Illinoise with its intricate arrangement, the buoyant Decatur with its witty rhyme scheme and lilting beat, the poignant and solemn Casimir Pulaski Day, the sensitive treatment of a horrible subject like John Wayne Gacy, the mix of sadness and elation in the rousing and catchy tune Chicago, Man Of Metropolis with its segments of hard rock guitar and the tender Tallest Man.Wow what a listening experience Illinois proved to be. On these exquisite melodies, Sufjan's intimate voice is often framed by the most elegant backing vocals over a rich and graceful instrumental mix. The music is infused with a stirring sense of spirituality. Illinois is the most inspiring and uplifting album I have heard in a long long time.

I loved this about since the first time I listened to it. One of best album ms of the America music. Love it

Super quick delivery. Great price and wonderful album

This album is very nostalgic for me. I was impressed on the quality, artwork, and design of the record case. The sound is terrific as well!

Am Broadway habe ich diese wundervolle Musik vertanzt gesehen.Unvergesslich.

Sin quejas sobre el sonido: vinilo grueso, sin saltos ni deformaciones, muy buen sonido en equipo Rega con aguja Microline.

Un vero viaggio fatto con la musica, album meglio riuscito di questo artista.

Awesome CD.