Wilco - Sky Blue Sky

Not as brilliant as Ghost is Born, but a natural progression

I've been listening to this album a lot lately and it's settling in -- in a really good way. It's nowhere near the ambition or energy of Ghost is Born, but it feels like a natural progression, and it's just a really good album. And I still call Wilco America's greatest living rock band. September 6, 2008

better than i remembered

I love this CD. The first four songs blow me away. and then three more later on. Their lead guitarist is flat out great. Very creative and he can burn when he needs to but most is just fun listening to. Some songs I just listen for his leads. But Tweedy and his new songs are fantastic. Great little melodies and their simplicity raises them even higher. But they are creative and original as anything I've heard in a while. The rest of the band fills in wonderfully with the extra guitar and bass and drums. They really hit this one out of the park. Give a listen to Impossibly Germany and you'll buy.
Andy Waits August 24, 2008

Searching for Jay...

After watching the documentary 'I Am Trying To Break Your Heart', I realize why Wilco cut ties with Jay Bennett. But I miss Jay. He was a vital part of Being There, Summerteeth, and Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. While Jeff Tweedy and Jay Bennett didn't always see eye to eye, their power struggle resulted in great music...especially on Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.
Historically speaking, turmoil and conflict has produced memorable music.

'Sky Blue Sky' is a continuation of the decline of Wilco. It's not a horrible album, but it's not a gem by any means. I cannot think of a single song that is particularly noteworthy. Honestly, can you think of any song on this album that can be compared to the greatness of 'Via Chicago', 'Sunken Treasure', 'Ashes of American Flags', or 'Shot In The Arm'? Name one. Just one.

If you study Wilco's entire catalogue of music, you will(or should) notice the lack of originality and creativity on the non-Jay Bennett albums. His production skills are also GREATLY missed. He was as important, if not more important than the founder of Wilco, Jeff Tweedy.

I'm extremely thankful that Wilco still does fantastic shows, but I think Jeff needs to make a phone call. ASAP. July 27, 2008

Sky Blue Sky

Wilco-Sky Blue Sky *****

Enchanting isn't the right word, just the first one to come to mind, but it just might work. Sky Blue Sky is easily the most inspired and greatest work Wilco has ever put forth. While not the experiment that A Ghost Is Born was, it works in their favor that way. Not cluttered with what should not be. But not so minimalistic that it doesn't feel like Wilco.

Sky Blue Sky is the groups first album since vocalist, and (underrated) guitar god, Jeff Tweedy kicked his habit. Hence the title. A clearer sound than on their previous works also is a reflection of this.

'You Are My Face' is eloquent and coarse adding a texture and fresh feel to the bands sound. 'Impossible Germany' is a great idea, accompanied with one of the more subdued and better guitar solos of this decade. The title track serves as the focal point even though it is the most unmemorable track on the album. Remaining low key until you reach it than it absorbs you like nothing you have ever heard. 'Shake It Off' evokes the Grateful Dead at the height of their power before they became a parody of what made them great and original.

Tweedy's lyrical inhibitions have been set free on Sky Blue Sky making for Wilco's most personal and inspired album to date. Mikal Jourgenson becomes more than a vital part of the group on this album as he shines more than ever before with his masterful key work. His restrained approach breeds great life into the music.

Sky Blue Sky is one album that breaches genres finding a niche in every collection offering it a home. Highly Recommended. July 8, 2008

Just keep getting better

Not being a big fan of Wilco's earlier work I am some what pestimistic when Wilco bring a new release. I have to say that since Foxtrot Hotel they just keep getting better and better. I am not going to name off great tracks on this album or put others down. It's just solid don't cherry pick the songs. Just let them play. I work in a Hair Salon and we play this album alot and every one ask who is this? No matter what age you are or what music you like this album is just good music and it speaks to you. Just buy it June 14, 2008

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