Conor Oberst, Ruminations, October 14th
Conor Oberst is probably best known for his work with Bright Eyes, but has been a member of a handful of bands, some known and some, well, not. Ruminations is the singer-songwriter’s seventh solo studio album. It follows the 2015 album Payola from Conor’s band Desaparecidos.
"What a thing to be a witness to the sunshine What a dream to just be walking on the ground What a time to live among the ashen remnants of our love It came before and I’m still looking for that now It took centuries to build these twisted cities It took seconds to reduce them down to dust And all the tour guide could say was “Take your pictures folks it’s late, try your best please to remember what was done.” Don’t look so forlorn Don’t you look so scared Don’t get so upset This world was never fair But there are hundreds of ways To get through the days There are hundreds of ways Now you just find one -“Hundreds of Ways”"
Ruminations is a great fall listen- a blend of stripped down instrumentals, a folky but strong voice, and minimal production. Ruminations is one of my top choices for new albums this year.