Get Lonely
Filed in: Albums
The Mountain Goats - Get Lonely
This album certainly has a story like feel about it. I love the way that it straddles a depressing feeling and an uplifting one. A strange mix of feelings that come across in a straightforward way because of the very direct approach to its songwriting if that makes sense. I first heard these songs when I saw him perform live at one of the quietest shows I have ever witnessed. Live he sang the words with a whisper to the audience, not even a whisper, quieter than that. It was as if the words being sung were simply floating off of his breath in a fascinating way. Sure, you could barely hear it but it certainly was memorable. Back to the album, the songs here are about loss, awakening, and the discovery that can be found at the end of a relationship. In my opinion it’s his best album and while many fans of The Mountain Goats may disagree I feel it’s his strongest moment as a songwriter. Its focused, to the point and above all, absolutely beautiful. Easily one of my favorite albums. Start with the song, Woke Up New, its perfect.
Another take on the album is here in the pitchfork review, the opening lines were:
“I introduced myself to John Darnielle after his performance at this summer's Pitchfork Music Festival, and this conversation happened:
Darnielle: Have you heard the new album?
Me: Yeah, I just got it.
Darnielle: What do you think?
Me: I've only heard it a couple of times; I'm still processing.
Darnielle: Do you have a girlfriend?
Me: Yeah, she's right over...
Darnielle: I hope she leaves you. Then you'll understand it.
He was joking. I think.” -from the pitchfork review
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