Sufjan Stevens, the modern day, more eclectic answer to Paul Simon, Lou Reed, and George Harrison, has two discs out currently. The first, Enjoy Your Rabbit, is an experimental noise composition with wonderful CD artwork. Finding a method to the 'Metal Machine' madness is tricky until track 3, where we are treated to some layered melody that builds nicely to the point of becoming quite engaging. Adventurous to say the least.
The second disc, A Sun Came, appears at first glance to be a more standard singer/songwriter type album, except Sufjan is anything but a standard gentleman. These traditionally based songs are ripe with the rich sounds of wood flute, xylophone, sitar, piano, and a myriad of guitars and percussion. Not to mention with the culture of the Old World, and with deep, profound emotions (some of which we never speak of, let alone express or cause with song, as Sufjan has done), artistry, and meek intelligence. Some songs are spartan, such as "Demetrius" and "Rake," but all are luxurious, well-composed, and inventive in their own way. Especially the first track, "We Are What You Say," with its Celtic melodies that conjure the kind of green that you will only ever see in Ireland or Wales. Or "A Winner Needs a Wand," with its chiming, whirling chorus and the gorgeous backup vocals of former Marzuki band-mate, Shannon Stephens (who has turned in her own share of moving songs since leaving Marzuki).
Justice will surely see Sufjan held up as another example of what man can create when humble before the Artist. And if utilitarian art truly is an immoral endeavor, as many suggest, Sufjan is righteous and holy in his musical pursuits.
Other coverage for this album
Opus 2002Reviewed by Chris BrownPut this one in the "better late than never" file. Released in 1999 with minimal (read: no) fanfare or publicity, A Sun Came is the solo debut from Sufjan Stevens, former multi-instrumentalist from the excellent arty-folk rock combo Marzuki. That this record has gone unnoticed for so long is absolutely criminal. A stunning blend of '60s psychedelic pop influences with middle-eastern and east…The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Ken MuellerA Sun Came is the first album to be released on Asthmatic Kitty records, a label set up by Stevens and Lowell Brams. Sufjan Stevens serves up an eclectic, yet very listenable, blend of electric, acoustic, folk pop, in true DIY fashion, complete with Celtic and Middle Eastern influences. The CD is completely unpredictable and truly original. Stevens does most of the work here, including playing an…Similar sounding releases
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