Cynically Optimistic

But I know what I like. Sometimes I even know why I like it. Mostly it's free downloads from Salon's Audiofile or other random mp3 blogs. Often it's stuff I listen to once and then forget about because it was mediocre, but once in a while something sticks and I get into it. I know it's worth investigating further when I've listened to the same song over and over. This is the way I found Sufjan Stevens' Album, Illinois.

The project is a bit high-concept: one album about each of the 50 states. He started with Michigan, and in 2005 released Illinois. One of the tracks from Michigan was featured on the OC, if you like to watch such programs. It's totally indie, a bit folky, very lyrical, and the melodies are subtle but memorable and he uses all sorts of odd meters. Listen here (or here, track 20), I'm guessing 5/8 and 6/8 meter switching back and forth? Or am I fooled? Someone with talent help me out here. Either way, I love it. It makes me want to clap my hands along with the music. He uses rhyming lyrics that are clever and interesting (not that rhyming New York with Dork isn't clever, but... well, it just isn't, ok Madonna). Clever and interesting (and funny) lyrics will get me every time. It's one of the reasons I dig hip-hop music, but that's another post, for another time.

Oh God of Progress
Have you degraded or forgot us?
Where have your laws gone?
I think about it now

Ancient hieroglyphic or the South Pacific
Typically terrific, busy and prolific

Classical devotion, architect promotion
Lacking in emotion. Think about it now.

Chicago, the New Age, but what would Frank Lloyd Wright say?
Oh Columbia!
Amusement or treasure, these optimistic pleasures
Like the Ferris Wheel!

Cannot conversations cull united nations?
If you got the patience, celebrate the ancients.