Conor Oberst

[_jonas]

With a "solo" album coming out, should we discuss him apart from Bright Eyes?

The solo album sounds fantastic & very folky!

[checkered.stars]

Really? I thought that the song I heard seemed more rock-ish.

[EchoPark]

If I were to ever meet Conor Oberst, the first thing I would say to him would be

"Cheer the fuck up buddy, life aint so damn bad and it certainly has been pretty good to you"

Bright Eyes=Shit

[_jonas]

Some songs are more rock-ish but it's got more of a folk slant..

[checkered.stars]

I would buy him coffee and hope that I would get referenced in a song.

And I have yet to hear the whole thing.

[Kid B]

If I were to ever meet Conor Oberst, the first thing I would say to him would be

"Cheer the fuck up buddy, life aint so damn bad and it certainly has been pretty good to you"

Bright Eyes=Shit
If I were to ever meet EchoPark, the first thing I would to to him would be

"Shut the fuck up buddy, Oberst aint so damn bad and he certainly is a lot better than you"

EchoPark=Shit

[pilot_light_out]

hey hey hey...come on now...the world needs an artist like Oberst

[theguy77]

If I were to ever meet Conor Oberst, the first thing I would say to him would be

"Cheer the fuck up buddy, life aint so damn bad and it certainly has been pretty good to you"

Bright Eyes=Shit

artists tend to only write when they're in bad moods becuase their troubles give them inspiration, they give them a topic to write on that they actually feel passionately about. that doesnt make them depressed. everyone has bad moods.

[mike l]

i love people who say bright eyes is shit. its obvious they have never given their catalog a true listen. either that or their favorite band is, like, zebrahead hahah.

[hockeyguitar99]

If I were to ever meet EchoPark, the first thing I would to to him would be

"Shut the fuck up buddy, Oberst aint so damn bad and he certainly is a lot better than you"

EchoPark=Shit

quality post

[EchoPark]

If I were to ever meet EchoPark, the first thing I would to to him would be

"Shut the fuck up buddy, Oberst aint so damn bad and he certainly is a lot better than you"

EchoPark=Shit


Yes he is very bad. very very bad. Unbelievably bad. And so are you for liking him.

[Kid B]

Yes he is very bad. very very bad. Unbelievably bad. And so are you for liking him.

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win

[EchoPark]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win


LOL. Yes you do win something. You win points for being a dumb-ass. Here is your gift.

But I feel honored a little cocksucker like you would at least like SOME of my music, you took the time to only single out a few,which I think is cool

[theguy77]

LOL. Yes you do win something. You win points for being a dumb-ass. Here is your gift.

http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u12/darkside709/emo-kids-oh-god-why.jpg

you are surprisingly inept for a 27 year old.

[Kid B]

LOL. Yes you do win something. You win points for being a dumb-ass. Here is your gift.

http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u12/darkside709/emo-kids-oh-god-why.jpg
I don't listen to a single thing that could be classified as emo. You listen to Saosin, AFI, and Circa Survive, so... yeah. You're an idiot.


Also, yes, you better edit before anybody else sees your sheer stupidity.

[Kid B]

you are surprisingly inept for a 27 year old.
Lol he's married! Wonder what his wife has to put up with.

I think this pretty much sums it up;

LOL. Yes you do win something. You win points for being a dumb-ass. Here is your gift.

But I feel honored a little cocksucker like you would at least like SOME of my music, you took the time to only single out a few,which I think is cool

[theguy77]

Lol he's married! Wonder what his wife has to put up with.

I think this pretty much sums it up;

hahaha. "yeah you win at something - being a dumbass. omg im so cunning, the jokes on him i twisted that shit. HONEY LOOK, tell me this guy has anything to say to that."

[ThemChains]

hahaha. "yeah you win at something - being a dumbass. omg im so cunning, the jokes on him i twisted that shit. HONEY LOOK, tell me this guy has anything to say to that."

Fully LOL.


I find Conor Oberst's voice can get a little abrasive for me at times. And, it's obvious he has heard some Bob Dylan in his time.

[Kid B]

hahaha. "yeah you win at something - being a dumbass. omg im so cunning, the jokes on him i twisted that shit. HONEY LOOK, tell me this guy has anything to say to that."
Hahaha

[EchoPark]

I am floored truly. Your defense of Connor Oberst is really amazing.

When I insulted Connor Oberst, You took it as a personal attack on you, which is why you reacted the way you did. You then attacked me and the music I listened to, the classic "My stuff is better than the stuff you listen to".

I'm pretty sure others would be in agreement on how mind-numbingly boring he is, but that is what is great about forums, the difference of opinion.

We will just agree to disagree.

[ThemChains]

I am floored truly. Your defense of Connor Oberst is really amazing.

When I insulted Connor Oberst, You took it as a personal attack on you, which is why you reacted the way you did. You then attacked me and the music I listened to, the classic "My stuff is better than the stuff you listen to".

I'm pretty sure others would be in agreement on how mind-numbingly boring he is, but that is what is great about forums, the difference of opinion.

We will just agree to disagree.

You're 27. Get a life.

[theguy77]

I am floored truly. Your defense of Connor Oberst is really amazing.

When I insulted Connor Oberst, You took it as a personal attack on you, which is why you reacted the way you did. You then attacked me and the music I listened to, the classic "My stuff is better than the stuff you listen to".

I'm pretty sure others would be in agreement on how mind-numbingly boring he is, but that is what is great about forums, the difference of opinion.

We will just agree to disagree.

no we actually attacked you becuase of the immaturity of your insults/viewpoints and how that makes you look really unintelligent. seriously? "emo kids?" you would expect that to come from a freshman in high school.

[TheOtherAndrew]

I ain't a punk-bitch I don't give a fuck

[EchoPark]

You're 27. Get a life.


Do you have one I could borrow?

[ThemChains]

Do you have one I could borrow?

:thumbdwn:

[chipdip18]

Haha i asked if this thread should be made and Kirby said no.


But i'm stoked for this album, i've trying really hard to avoid the leak, i know i'll love the solo album when it hits.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win

Hey now

Circa, Saosin, Acceptance, AFI arent' bad.

Joe Budden is a joke

Bone Thugs have some good shit

I do like Bright Eyes though, pre Cassadagga or however you spell it

[theguy77]

are you kidding? i think cassadaga was their best work yet.

[El_Jeffe]

might get round to checking this out, but it's not exactly a priority for me, especially if it sounds anything like cassadaga. i didn't enjoy the whole "sound" of that album

[imnick]

its more like old conor that cassadaga as far as i know. Cassadaga is an amazing album, just not a great bright eyes album, i just dont think its a representation of what a bright eyes album is like.

[Dr. Acula]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI),

I win

HEY! You leave these three out of this Mr!

As for the new record, Im pumped.

[Anthony Lutz]

are you kidding? i think cassadaga was their best work yet.

I disagree, Lifted was his best work IMO.

[mike l]

joe budden is awesome M-( my favorite non-eminem rapper

[EchoPark]

joe budden is awesome M-( my favorite non-eminem rapper


word to that, joe can flow like very few can. plus he releases all his material free to the public on mixtape sites.

[kwsqd]

whoever insulted billy joel is a fucking tool.

[EchoPark]

whoever insulted billy joel is a fucking tool.


:appl:

[kearn1tm]

Conor Oberst is a man (kind of). A man who sings music.

[IWasaCamera]

its more like old conor that cassadaga as far as i know. Cassadaga is an amazing album, just not a great bright eyes album, i just dont think its a representation of what a bright eyes album is like.
And what is a Bright Eyes album like? Fevers, Lifted, I'm Wide Awake, and Digital Ash sound nothing alike.


The Conor album is alright. A collection of indie-folk by numbers that isn't particularly poor but isn't memorable either.

[_jonas]

Cassadaga has so many sweeping sounds underneath it's feet & is alot much more adult than previous Bright Eyes releases.
it's a better album to represent their growth. it's better to be evolving rather than stay the course for the sake of your fans or tradition.

[chipdip18]

its more like old conor that cassadaga as far as i know. Cassadaga is an amazing album, just not a great bright eyes album, i just dont think its a representation of what a bright eyes album is like.

I can see what you mean, but i have to disagree. Cassadaga shows the growth and maturity of the Bright Eyes sound. Although it doesn't sound like Fevers and Mirrors, or sound like it came from a sound like that, you can still make connections between the two albums. I don't enjoy Cassadaga the most, but it is a great representation of the culmination up to that point.

[Kid B]

I am floored truly. Your defense of Connor Oberst is really amazing.

When I insulted Connor Oberst, You took it as a personal attack on you, which is why you reacted the way you did. You then attacked me and the music I listened to, the classic "My stuff is better than the stuff you listen to".

I'm pretty sure others would be in agreement on how mind-numbingly boring he is, but that is what is great about forums, the difference of opinion.

We will just agree to disagree.
Lol How did I do that? I just defended Conor Oberst from the kind of people who refuse to give him a proper chance before trolling him. You were the first one to begin with actual personal attacks.

proof;
Yes he is very bad. very very bad. Unbelievably bad. And so are you for liking him.

LOL. Yes you do win something. You win points for being a dumb-ass. Here is your gift.

But I feel honored a little cocksucker like you would at least like SOME of my music, you took the time to only single out a few,which I think is cool

You attacked me (or tried?) with the emo picture, then you went and deleted it so you could try and sound innocent in the end. Thank god for quote before edit.

Honestly, you aren't 27 and you are not married. It's not possible. Unless you live in a god damned trailer park and walk all the way up to the library to post.

[AP_Punk]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win

Dillinger Four rule, n00b!

[hollycroftpop]

listening to the new album right now. pretty fun stuff. i love this direction oberst is going in.

[chipdip18]

Is it that much of a difference in direction? i've heard so many different things about it haha.

[EchoPark]

Lol How did I do that? I just defended Conor Oberst from the kind of people who refuse to give him a proper chance before trolling him. You were the first one to begin with actual personal attacks.

proof;




You attacked me (or tried?) with the emo picture, then you went and deleted it so you could try and sound innocent in the end. Thank god for quote before edit.

Honestly, you aren't 27 and you are not married. It's not possible. Unless you live in a god damned trailer park and walk all the way up to the library to post.


Actually I usually catch the free shuttle bus from the projects and post on my Aunts computer.

[handlikesecret]

hahaha this thread has been pure quality.

[zackisonfire]

I don't listen to a single thing that could be classified as emo. You listen to Saosin, AFI, and Circa Survive, so... yeah. You're an idiot.


Also, yes, you better edit before anybody else sees your sheer stupidity.


I forgot Circa Survive was emo.
Fail/10

[TheOtherAndrew]

Dillinger Four rule, n00b!
This.

[shit stroll]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win
you're fucking idiot. dillinger 4 and strung out are better than most of the boring, generic ass "indie rock" you listen to. social distortion kick ass too.

[shit stroll]

didn't you make an arctic monkeys thread yesterday? lol.

[bowl of oranges]

I love Conor Oberst.

[CellarGhosts]

You are bad for listening to these horrible bands

Circa Survive (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Circa+Survive), Social Distortion (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Social+Distortion),Dillenger Four (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Dillenger+Four), Acceptance (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Acceptance), Saosin (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Saosin), Mest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Mest), Billy Joel (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Billy+Joel), AFI (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=AFI), Slick Shoes (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Slick+Shoes), Strung Out (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Strung+Out), Rufio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Rufio), Also dig a bit of rap/hip-hop. Joe Budden (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=MxPx.%0D%0A%0D%0AAlso+dig+a+ bit+of+rap%2Fhip-hop.%0D%0A%0D%0AJoe+Budden), Bone Thugs N Harmony (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Bone+Thugs+N+Harmony), Scribe (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Scribe), Apathy (http://www.absolutepunk.net/memberlist.php?do=getall&field5=Apathy),

I win
Dillinger Four, Strung Out, Billy Joel, Social Distortion = not horrible.

[bowl of oranges]

Chris your avatar reminds me that I need to pick up that album...

[shit stroll]

Dillinger Four, Strung Out, Billy Joel, Social Distortion = not horrible.
this.

[CellarGhosts]

Chris your avatar reminds me that I need to pick up that album...
Definitely get it, it's my favorite album of theirs so far. I didn't think they were gonna top Boys & Girls In America but somehow they did.

this.
Good man.

[versus_god]

I thought that The Academy Is record had leaked. Fuck Dillinger Four.

[CellarGhosts]

I thought that The Academy Is record had leaked. Fuck Dillinger Four.
:lol:

[versus_god]

Official Paddy's Got His Pants Off Thread Part II

http://www.razorcake.org/graphics/temp/d4_paddy/paddy_1.jpg

[CellarGhosts]

Where's that picture of Dan Yemin checking Paddy out?

[shit stroll]

patty is soo sexy

[CellarGhosts]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y31/el_douche/l_50e4a6a87e24da013ef3fa52365c94b5. jpg

[shit stroll]

this thread is bonnerrific

[versus_god]

Where's that picture of Dan Yemin checking Paddy out?
Hahaha I'll have to find it.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/114/290597547_5819b9d36c.jpg

[TheOtherAndrew]

hello, hello, hello, hello
we are glad to meet you, we are glad to greet you
hello, hello, hello, hello

[versus_god]

Featuring Dr. Dan:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/scottheisel/dillinger%20four/102806%20gainesville/PICT0156s.jpg

[EchoPark]

Paddy and the D4 crew invited Connor Oberst over for a bbq and beers but Oberst had to politley decline as he was busy writing heartfelt material for his new album.

[CellarGhosts]

Featuring Dr. Dan:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/scottheisel/dillinger%20four/102806%20gainesville/PICT0156s.jpg
hahaha, bravo.

[mattybobviously]

Oberst hasn't fulfilled his potential, and I'm beginning to doubt he will. It's a shame, one of the most talented people in music right now.

[mike l]

how has he not fulfilled his potential? believe me, i feel in his maturity as a human he may have grown up a bit fast but that may have been a result of the fact that he is on his 14th album in 28 years of existence and the kind of life he has lived to this point. one thing that can not be argued is that his new album is his happiest and most uplifting to date. i do wish he squeezed out another lifted-or-wide awake-era albums, people need to let the man live and write what comes to him. it just so happens that at this time he doesn't feel the need to express solely first hand experiences and instead chooses to be the voice of others. the good thing is that he is still at a young enough age that his writing may take a cyclical style and may cause him to come back to some of his earlier stylings. i can only hope that he fulfills his own expectations first and foremost, without sacrificing the ears of his longtime listeners.

[Kid B]

I agree that he has filled his expectations. That is arguable though, but I think Lifted is the best album he was ever able to make. Not my favorite, but the best.

[FayeQC]

danny callahan is so awesome
idk but everyone talks about him being super arrogant
confirm/deny?

[CellarGhosts]

danny callahan is so awesome
idk but everyone talks about him being super arrogant
confirm/deny?

how has he not fulfilled his potential? believe me, i feel in his maturity as a human he may have grown up a bit fast but that may have been a result of the fact that he is on his 14th album in 28 years of existence and the kind of life he has lived to this point. one thing that can not be argued is that his new album is his happiest and most uplifting to date. i do wish he squeezed out another lifted-or-wide awake-era albums, people need to let the man live and write what comes to him. it just so happens that at this time he doesn't feel the need to express solely first hand experiences and instead chooses to be the voice of others. the good thing is that he is still at a young enough age that his writing may take a cyclical style and may cause him to come back to some of his earlier stylings. i can only hope that he fulfills his own expectations first and foremost, without sacrificing the ears of his longtime listeners.

Oberst hasn't fulfilled his potential, and I'm beginning to doubt he will. It's a shame, one of the most talented people in music right now.

Holy lots of NMH parody avatars Batman!

[Line.]

Conor Oberst is a genius. I like Bright Eyes more, but still.

[IWasaCamera]

the good thing is that he is still at a young enough age that his writing may take a cyclical style and may cause him to come back to some of his earlier stylings.
He had better not write another Fevers And Mirrors when he's 35.

[FayeQC]

Holy lots of NMH parody avatars Batman!

~join the club

[CellarGhosts]

~join the club
haha to be honest I've never been a big fan of them.

Calvin & Hobbes however, is awesome ;-)

[FayeQC]

haha to be honest I've never been a big fan of them.

Calvin & Hobbes however, is awesome ;-)

They are! and you should check out nmh

also, quoting you was my 666th post - that must mean something :-p

[CellarGhosts]

They are! and you should check out nmh

also, quoting you was my 666th post - that must mean something :-p
oh I have checked them out before and wasn't really feeling it. I dunno, they're good but not my cup of tea. :-)

hahaha, I guess it might.

[hollycroftpop]

Is it that much of a difference in direction? i've heard so many different things about it haha.

It completely follows through with what Conor Oberst was trying to do with Cassadaga, and its done quite well.

[_jonas]

:-) tis amazing solo

[chipdip18]

It's a great solo album, i don't know if it'll crack my top albums of the year list though.

[micahistheballs]

It's alright. Really hit or miss for me.

[chipdip18]

It's alright. Really hit or miss for me.

What's the miss for you?

[kitti_katt420]

I was so in love with Cassadega that Conor had a lot to live up to with this album, at least in my mind. I think for the most part, he delivered. Lenders in the Temple is one of the best songs he has written.

[chipdip18]

I was so in love with Cassadega that Conor had a lot to live up to with this album, at least in my mind. I think for the most part, he delivered. Lenders in the Temple is one of the best songs he has written.


That song is probably my favorite off the solo album.

[kitti_katt420]

I can't decide between that one or Milk Thistle as my favorite. Milk was a perfect cd closer.

[chipdip18]

Milk Thistle is good, It falls behind Cape Canaveral, Lenders in the Temple, and Eagle On A Pole for me though.

[micahistheballs]

What's the miss for you?
About half the tracks.

[chipdip18]

About half the tracks.


Bummer. Favorite song?

[Dr. Acula]

I need to spend some more time with this record. Sometimes I'll listen and totally be into it and other times I get bored with it halfway through.

[micahistheballs]

Bummer. Favorite song?
Probably Lenders in the Temple or Milk Thistle. I think he's at his best on this record when he slows everything down.

[kitti_katt420]

Milk Thistle is good, It falls behind Cape Canaveral, Lenders in the Temple, and Eagle On A Pole for me though.

I thought that entire album was a step in the right direction for him. I can see how much he has gotten better as a songwriter from albums like Letting Of the Happiness and Fevers and Mirrors to now.

[kitti_katt420]

Probably Lenders in the Temple or Milk Thistle. I think he's at his best on this record when he slows everything down.


I agree.

[Kid B]

I still haven't listened to this. I've been getting off on a lot of Bright Eyes lately though.

[checkered.stars]

I still haven't listened to this. I've been getting off on a lot of Bright Eyes lately though.
Same. I've been listening to some of his albums non-stop.

[HangsLikeHeaven]

I can't listen to Oberst anymore...

[checkered.stars]

I hope that I never ever get tired of his music. That would be so awful.

[_jonas]

Conor Oberst is one of the only artists around worth really bothering to hear or listen to.
Like in interviews and outside his music. He is incredibly wise for his age

[Kid B]

jonas, link a great video interview please.

[_jonas]

yEkbHozPmbk
He's awkward in most of his interviews. I prefer stuff in writing

[_jonas]

Earlier today I was watching a lot of interviews that have since mysteriously disappeared. Seriously it says they were pulled. One really good one too:-(


Here's a good article from the dead publication, Harp (http://harpmagazine.com/articles/detail.cfm?article_id=5535&searchword=conor%20oberst)

[IWasaCamera]

New album is still boring.

[IntoOblivion]

I thought the cd was pretty good but it could of been better.

[Twikki]

great cd

[checkered.stars]

I didn't really like the album at first, but it really grew on me. Favorite songs: Get Well Cards, Lenders in a Temple, and Eagle on a Pole.

[chipdip18]

I didn't really like the album at first, but it really grew on me. Favorite songs: Get Well Cards, Lenders in a Temple, and Eagle on a Pole.

I agree with you except for Get Well Cards. He sounds like he's trying to be Bob Dylan to me in that, and it doesn't work for him.

[checkered.stars]

I agree with you except for Get Well Cards. He sounds like he's trying to be Bob Dylan to me in that, and it doesn't work for him.
I've never listened to Bob Dylan, so I wouldn't know. That song was kind of what I expected the whole album to be like so I liked it a lot. Once I got the Bright-Eyes-expectations out of my head, the album was easier to enjoy (for me).

[chipdip18]

I've never listened to Bob Dylan, so I wouldn't know. That song was kind of what I expected the whole album to be like so I liked it a lot. Once I got the Bright-Eyes-expectations out of my head, the album was easier to enjoy (for me).


Very very true. I really do love Lenders in the Temple and Eagle on a Pole though.

[StreetSpirit76]

I agree with you except for Get Well Cards. He sounds like he's trying to be Bob Dylan to me in that, and it doesn't work for him.

He sounds like he's trying to be Bob Dylan on almost every track, in my opinion. But I did enjoy the album more than I thought I would.

[chipdip18]

He sounds like he's trying to be Bob Dylan on almost every track, in my opinion. But I did enjoy the album more than I thought I would.


Eh, i don't know about every track. On Get Well Cards i feel like his singing style even shifted a bit towards the Bob Dylan style.

[StreetSpirit76]

Eh, i don't know about every track. On Get Well Cards i feel like his singing style even shifted a bit towards the Bob Dylan style.

Get Well Cards is the worst offender, agreed. I do think that he borrows a great deal from Dylan throughout the album though.

[micahistheballs]

Hit and miss all the way through.

[chipdip18]

Get Well Cards is the worst offender, agreed. I do think that he borrows a great deal from Dylan throughout the album though.

Hit and miss all the way through.


Agreed on both accounts. Favorite and least favorites?

[micahistheballs]

Agreed on both accounts. Favorite and least favorites?
Everything else on the record pales in comparison to Milk Thistle for me.

The worst are NYC Gone, Sausalito, and Souled Out. The upbeat stuff doesn't work on this album for me.

[StreetSpirit76]

As far as favorites go they'd probably be Lenders In The Temple, Eagle On A Pole, and Milk Thistle. But none of those really stand up to most of his other stuff.

Though I guess a comparison like that shouldn't really be made, since this was made specifically separate from Conor's other material.

[chipdip18]

Everything else on the record pales in comparison to Milk Thistle for me.

The worst are NYC Gone, Sausalito, and Souled Out. The upbeat stuff doesn't work on this album for me.


I actually really like NYC Gone. I agree witht Sausalito, and Souled Out is subpar in my opinion. However, the songs i dislike the most are I Don't Want to Die In A Hospital, and Get Wells Cards. I would say that Cape Canaveral is a great opener, and Milk Thistle is a great closer.

[chipdip18]

As far as favorites go they'd probably be Lenders In The Temple, Eagle On A Pole, and Milk Thistle. But none of those really stand up to most of his other stuff.

Though I guess a comparison like that shouldn't really be made, since this was made specifically separate from Conor's other material.


A comparasion shouldn't be made, mostly from the reasons why he said this was a solo album and not a Bright Eyes album, but a comparasion can be made. At least with Cassadaga. And i think it's really hard not to make a comparasion.

I think that Lenders In The Temple and Milk Thistle and maybe Cape Canaveral could stand with Bright Eyes songs. All the others, not as much.

[TheWeakest]

oberst should have stuck to desaparecidos. what a great original sound.
i wish i liked bright eyes, but i find i'm always forcing myself to listen to it and never really enjoying it.

[chipdip18]

With a new Mystic Valley Band album coming out, i think this should get bumped. It's called Outer South and with be out May 5th. What do you all think?

[IWasaCamera]

Should be as forgettable as the last.

[chipdip18]

I think most of the songs written for it are just songs that didn't make it on the last album plus a few.

[IWasaCamera]

Not promising.

[crooked spin]

Ok, that is just flat-out wrong.

Is it beyond belief that Conor could write 10-11 new songs in 2008 for this album?

The songs from the self-titled album were written in 2007, he probably started writing them right around the time Cassadaga was released. The only song from the self-titled album that was written in 2008 was Souled Out!!!. That album was recorded last January/February and since then he's had plenty of time to write new songs. I mean, when he plays a new song live he usually says "we just finished this one last night" so you know it's new.

I wasn't going to even comment on this since I honestly hate being the Conor Oberst knowitall douchebag, but I think making a statement like "these are the songs that weren't even good enough for the first album" makes it sound like these songs/this album will suck and from all the new songs we've heard that couldn't be further from the truth.

IWasaCamera, you're obviously free to like or dislike whatever you want, but the new Conor Oberst & MVB material is very promising.

[crooked spin]

I think it's funny, too, that the actual songs that didn't make the first solo album -- Gentleman's Pact, Synesthete Song and Breezy -- are better than a lot of the songs that DID make the album.

[IWasaCamera]

Here's hoping it's stronger than the self-titled.

[B-Bones]

Man. Seriously loved the solo album and can't wait for the new one. I absolutely adore "I Don't Want to Die (In A Hospital)."

[B-Bones]

Here's hoping it's stronger than the self-titled.

Ya let's hope it's not too straight forward and abrupt, compositionally speaking of course.

[crooked spin]

Here's hoping it's stronger than the self-titled.

What didn't you like about it? I just glanced through this thread and didn't see much in the way of explanation. Just curious.

[IWasaCamera]

Ya let's hope it's not too straight forward and abrupt, compositionally speaking of course.
Do you know what the term "abrupt" means?
What didn't you like about it? I just glanced through this thread and didn't see much in the way of explanation. Just curious.
Sounded like Oberst phoned it in as some of the arrangements verge on lazy. Moreover, the two foot-stompers I Don't Want To Die (In The Hospital) and NYC - Gone, Gone are entirely forgettable, serving no purpose whatsoever on the album. The opener and closer are both decent though.

[chipdip18]

Ok, that is just flat-out wrong.

Is it beyond belief that Conor could write 10-11 new songs in 2008 for this album?

The songs from the self-titled album were written in 2007, he probably started writing them right around the time Cassadaga was released. The only song from the self-titled album that was written in 2008 was Souled Out!!!. That album was recorded last January/February and since then he's had plenty of time to write new songs. I mean, when he plays a new song live he usually says "we just finished this one last night" so you know it's new.

I wasn't going to even comment on this since I honestly hate being the Conor Oberst knowitall douchebag, but I think making a statement like "these are the songs that weren't even good enough for the first album" makes it sound like these songs/this album will suck and from all the new songs we've heard that couldn't be further from the truth.

IWasaCamera, you're obviously free to like or dislike whatever you want, but the new Conor Oberst & MVB material is very promising.

Hey it keeps me more informed so keep pointing out my mistakes haha. It's interesting how fast then how these songs get written as opposed to Bright Eyes songs it seems. But then again, if this does start back to 2007 then i guess it's a normal length of time.

I was under the impresseion that a good number of songs were ones that written around the time when the others were, sorry for that. But even so, it doesn't mean that the new album will be a poor b-sides collection, they could have rewritten the songs into something much better than they were before.

[kearn1tm]

With a new Mystic Valley Band album coming out, i think this should get bumped. It's called Outer South and with be out May 5th. What do you all think?

We'll call this Ryan Adams Syndrome.

Oberst can release good material, but nothing since 2002 has felt like a well-rounded release. He has bits and pieces within each Bright Eyes and solo releases that, if coupled together, may sound a bit disjointed but would amount to a consistent album. When taken album-by-album, it's normally one or two good/decent songs mixed with mediocrity/filler. I wanted to enjoy last year's self-titled album, and I found myself only enjoying NYC-Gone, Gone (a track who's duration is less than a minute and a half, which is telling) and Milk Thistle. That entire album was so incredibly uninspired and vanilla. I can't imagine all the "good stuff" was being prepared or held-off for the second solo with the Mystic Valley Band.

[chipdip18]

We'll call this Ryan Adams Syndrome.

Oberst can release good material, but nothing since 2002 has felt like a well-rounded release. He has bits and pieces within each Bright Eyes and solo releases that, if coupled together, may sound a bit disjointed but would amount to a consistent album. When taken album-by-album, it's normally one or two good/decent songs mixed with mediocrity/filler. I wanted to enjoy last year's self-titled album, and I found myself only enjoying NYC-Gone, Gone (a track who's duration is less than a minute and a half, which is telling) and Milk Thistle. That entire album was so incredibly uninspired and vanilla. I can't imagine all the "good stuff" was being prepared or held-off for the second solo with the Mystic Valley Band.

You wouldn't give I'm Wide Awake It's Morning the description of being a well-rounded release?

I'll agree that the album wasn't nearly as inspired as the previous Bright Eyes work, but i think it's important to keep in mind that only one of the songwriters from Bright Eyes in the solo projected. Granted he's the chief songwriter, but i find that the solo albums goes to show how much Mike Mogis and Nate Walcott contribute.

[IWasaCamera]

I'm Wide Awake is far and away Oberst's peak.

[chipdip18]

I'm Wide Awake is far and away Oberst's peak.

While i would agree, i would say that Cassadaga really did show some promise for another great record in a different vein. The solo records... well aren't fulfulling that promise to put it simply.

[kearn1tm]

You wouldn't give I'm Wide Awake It's Morning the description of being a well-rounded release?

I'll agree that the album wasn't nearly as inspired as the previous Bright Eyes work, but i think it's important to keep in mind that only one of the songwriters from Bright Eyes in the solo projected. Granted he's the chief songwriter, but i find that the solo albums goes to show how much Mike Mogis and Nate Walcott contribute.

I find Fevers and Mirrors and LIFTED to be his best accomplishments. There's an intrinsic charm to Oberst's minimalist production and one-dimensional introspection. I'm Wide Awake just sounds clumsy to me, in both lyrical content (he doesn't do well when writing beyond himself) and the arrangements.

I'm Wide Awake is far and away Oberst's peak.

I find it ambitious for Oberst, but not his best.

In fact, the best thing he's done since LIFTED in my estimation is Cassadaga, which, while inconsistent, was fun.

[chipdip18]

I find Fevers and Mirrors and LIFTED to be his best accomplishments. There's an intrinsic charm to Oberst's minimalist production and one-dimensional introspection. I'm Wide Awake just sounds clumsy to me, in both lyrical content (he doesn't do well when writing beyond himself) and the arrangements.



I find it ambitious for Oberst, but not his best.

In fact, the best thing he's done since LIFTED in my estimation is Cassadaga, which, while inconsistent, was fun.


Interesting, you're probably the first person i've encountered that thinks so. I would say that the arrangements are still in league with previous albums (talking about IWAIM here), just a bit stripped down. You don't have any ballads like False Adverstising, but you still get the taste of great moving pieces in Landlocked Blues and Poison Oak.

[IWasaCamera]

I find it ambitious for Oberst, but not his best.

In fact, the best thing he's done since LIFTED in my estimation is Cassadaga, which, while inconsistent, was fun.
Hmm. I find it his most cohesive work to date, and quite well executed all in all. The over-the-top arrangements and lack of flow on Lifted detract from its charm I'd say. As for Cassadaga, sounds like two separate albums which are both somewhat intriguing without bearing much lasting value.

[CellarGhosts]

I really liked Cassadaga. :shrug:

[chipdip18]

I like Cassadaga, but it just those few songs that really bring it down in my opinion.

[kearn1tm]

Hmm. I find it his most cohesive work to date, and quite well executed all in all. The over-the-top arrangements and lack of flow on Lifted detract from its charm I'd say. As for Cassadaga, sounds like two separate albums which are both somewhat intriguing without bearing much lasting value.


This is a personal preference, but Lifted's production wasn't grandiose enough to handle the excess of some of the songs, which actually appealed to me. He was trying some new elaborate things within the confines of lacking production which was oddly charming to me. The awkward sounds of the strings and the keyboards/digital flourishes of Lover I Don't Have to Love accentuated the discomfort and, well, awkwardness of the song, for example.

Cassadaga is a little disjointed, but I think it's interesting and it almost works. Almost.

[kearn1tm]

I really liked Cassadaga. :shrug:

I did as well.

I like Cassadaga, but it just those few songs that really bring it down in my opinion.

There were a few clunkers.

[IWasaCamera]

I like Cassadaga too. Was just hoping for more after I'm Wide Awake.

[CellarGhosts]

What's everyone's opinion on Digital Ash? I couldn't really get into it like I could I'm Wide Awake.

[IWasaCamera]

Rather average foray into electronics. Haven't listened to it in ages nor do I plan to.

[kearn1tm]

What's everyone's opinion on Digital Ash? I couldn't really get into it like I could I'm Wide Awake.

I abhor that album. The electronic production sounded very amateurish and forced. The Postal Service used the concept and made a pop album that was more enjoyable than Digital Ash. If the Postal Service do something better than you, your project has failed.

[kearn1tm]

Oberst is attractive though. He has that going for him, and celebrities are turning his music into the new Strokes (as in, when a celebrity is asked what they're listening to of late, any of the "cool" ones will say "well, I'm really into the latest Bright Eyes album.").

[IWasaCamera]

If the Postal Service do something better than you, your project has failed.
Bam. Roundhouse kick.

[cuethejosh]

conor oberst is probably one of the best lyricists of his generation.
although his lack of vocal talent could turn many people away
the soothing music and great lyrics make up for it.
that's what i think at least

favorite cd by far is I'm wide awake
but best song for me is
A perfect sonnet

[CellarGhosts]

I abhor that album. The electronic production sounded very amateurish and forced. The Postal Service used the concept and made a pop album that was more enjoyable than Digital Ash. If the Postal Service do something better than you, your project has failed.
I gotcha. I don't hate it, but it isn't particularly something I'd go back to.

[kearn1tm]

conor oberst is probably one of the best lyricists of his generation.

How many songwriters of "his generation" are you familiar with?

[cuethejosh]

How many songwriters of "his generation" are you familiar with?

not all but most. i believe he has a very open mind but knows what he believes in.
some compare him to bob dylan which is VERY far fetched.
although their writing styles are somewhat the same, bob dylan is one of the greates of all-time.

[chipdip18]

I enjoy Digital Ash. Easy/Lucky/Free is one of his best songs.

[Circa1628]

so is this album he has coming out May 5th, a new studio album, or a b-sides album?

[Circa1628]

I enjoy Digital Ash. Easy/Lucky/Free is one of his best songs.
probably my least favorite record of Bright Eyes, but Easy/Lucky/Free is definitely the stand out track on the album

[crooked spin]

Do you know what the term "abrupt" means?

Sounded like Oberst phoned it in as some of the arrangements verge on lazy. Moreover, the two foot-stompers I Don't Want To Die (In The Hospital) and NYC - Gone, Gone are entirely forgettable, serving no purpose whatsoever on the album. The opener and closer are both decent though.

Well, I see NYC Gone Gone as the "intro" to Moab (they play it as the intro to Souled Out!!! live as well). Ideally, those two songs should have started off the album because I think NYC Gone Gone is totally out of place in the middle of it. It doesn't help that there's another minute long track after that which is just a blowing horn... that shouldn't have been made an actual track. Oh well.

I think the style of the overall arrangements is founded on the idea that Conor wanted to write a bunch of songs, show them to his friends, have his friends write a few parts in less than a month and record them. They're pretty unadorned and straightforward, but I think that that is quite purposeful.

In contrast, the new material that the band has been playing has evolved quite a bit from show to show and I think the arrangements on the new album are going to be much more your style. The new songs seem much more like full-band efforts and there is a lot more guitar and keyboard/organ parts that they have been developing on the road. I think things will sound a bit more fleshed-out.

We'll call this Ryan Adams Syndrome.

Oberst can release good material, but nothing since 2002 has felt like a well-rounded release. He has bits and pieces within each Bright Eyes and solo releases that, if coupled together, may sound a bit disjointed but would amount to a consistent album. When taken album-by-album, it's normally one or two good/decent songs mixed with mediocrity/filler. I wanted to enjoy last year's self-titled album, and I found myself only enjoying NYC-Gone, Gone (a track who's duration is less than a minute and a half, which is telling) and Milk Thistle. That entire album was so incredibly uninspired and vanilla. I can't imagine all the "good stuff" was being prepared or held-off for the second solo with the Mystic Valley Band.

I worry about Ryan Adams Syndrome affecting Conor too, but I have really liked or loved everything he's put out in recent years, so I can't really complain (yet). But I know what you mean.

I honestly think that Fevers and Mirrors is his only 100% consistant album. There are songs on Lifted that I wish had been replaced by better ones. I'd say that those two are his best albums, followed closely by I'm Wide Awake. Letting Off the Happiness was written and recorded by an 18 year old who was just cutting his teeth as a songwriter and it really shows nowadays. It's inconsistant to the point that I can't call it "great".

So really, he put out two great albums in the beginning of the decade. That's hardly an unrepeatable feat, and sometimes I feel like people are too hard on his recent material when they're comparing it to this faintly remembered "golden age" of Fevers and Lifted.

[Cuddleworthy]

I honestly think that Fevers and Mirrors is his only 100% consistant album.

there's a lot wrong with this sentence.

[crooked spin]

Huh? I misspelled 'consistent' which I tend to do a lot, but...

[kearn1tm]

not all but most. i believe he has a very open mind but knows what he believes in.
some compare him to bob dylan which is VERY far fetched.
although their writing styles are somewhat the same, bob dylan is one of the greates of all-time.

So you're aware of Will Oldham, Marissa Nadler, Sam Beam, Andy Cabic, Justin Vernon, Jim James, Mark Kozelek, Jeff Tweedy, the Dessner brothers, Joanna Newsom, Devendra Banhart, Kristian Matsson, Bill Callahan, Damien Jurado, Emma Pollock and John Darnielle, all of whom have released a substantial amount of their work within the time Oberst has been recording, and yet you stil lthink he's among the "best" as in, as good and profound a songwriter as these artists?

EDIT - I do not wish to paint a anti-Oberst picture here, as I find him to be a capable, and at times, very good songwriter, but his range is limited. His best work is introspective fare, in which he talks of personal politics in a rather histrionic manner, and it's quite entertaining, but all of Oberst's social or political commentaries come across as clumsy and he hasn't the knack for writing about things greater than himself, which creates a glass-ceiling in terms of his talent that he can't escape.

[crooked spin]

Man oh man is Justin Vernon overrated. He's put out one single album and I can almost guarantee now that he won't produce anything else substantial again. I'd lump Devendra and Joanna Newsom (only claim to fame: getting Van Dyk Parks to arrange some orchestral music for her) in with him too.

Kozelek, Oldham, Darnielle and maybe Tweedy are certainly modern giants of the singer-songwriter genre but all of them are at least a decade older than Oberst and none of them, save Tweedy, have the name recognition that Oberst does. To be the voice of a generation, that generation has to know who you are.

You named a lot of very talented songwriters, but I don't think any of them have been able to capture lightning in a bottle the way Conor has. That's all I'll say for now but this is a pretty interesting topic and something that I think about often. I'll add more later.

[kearn1tm]

Man oh man is Justin Vernon overrated. He's put out one single album and I can almost guarantee now that he won't produce anything else substantial again.

For Emma is a better album and singular piece of work than anything Oberst has recorded, which is quite the accomplishment.

I'd lump Devendra and Joanna Newsom (only claim to fame: getting Van Dyk Parks to arrange some orchestral music for her) in with him too.
Both songwriters harken back to English Romantic Period authors in their lyrics with themes of naturalism and man's connection with nature bringing about a certain purity. It's rare to see in contemporary songwriters, and for that alone, they're among the best, in my humble opinion.

Kozelek, Oldham, Darniell and maybe Tweedy are certainly modern giants of the singer-songwriter genre but all of them are at least a decade older than Oberst and none of them, save Tweedy, have the name recognition that Oberst does. To be the voice of a generation, that generation has to know who you are.
Decade older, sure, but each of them have released their most substantial body of work within the time Oberst has been recording. Moreover, no one is debating who the "voice of a generation" is. That would be impossible to gauge within the "actual generation." One needs to the context of being outside the generation and looking back to properly make a decision. What's being discussed is whether Oberst's talents place him among the best songwriters of the current generation. I don't believe he's of that calibur. Name recognition has nothing to do with this.

You named a lot of very talented songwriters, but I don't think any of them have been able to capture lightning in a bottle the way Conor has. That's all I'll say for now but this is a pretty interesting topic and something that I think about often. I'll add more later.
I disagree. I think each of them are superior to Oberst's limited songwriting capabilities. See my last post for the reasoning behind this. Conor's strenghts are one-dimensional.

[crooked spin]

I thought that cuethejosh's initial post was asserting that Oberst was the "voice" of the generation and from there this discussion came. Will write more later.

[kearn1tm]

conor oberst is probably one of the best lyricists of his generation.
although his lack of vocal talent could turn many people away
the soothing music and great lyrics make up for it.
that's what i think at least

favorite cd by far is I'm wide awake
but best song for me is
A perfect sonnet

I thought that cuethejosh's initial post was asserting that Oberst was the "voice" of the generation and from there this discussion came. Will write more later.

He merely proclaimed Oberst to be "one of the best lyricists of his generation," not the "voice of a generation." That question is a whole different jar of syrup.

[crooked spin]

Ah, guess I should have reviewed the thread before responding from memory. At any rate, I'll make a more substantial post later.

[kearn1tm]

Ah, guess I should have reviewed the thread before responding from memory. At any rate, I'll make a more substantial post later.

It happens.

[IWasaCamera]

In contrast, the new material that the band has been playing has evolved quite a bit from show to show and I think the arrangements on the new album are going to be much more your style. The new songs seem much more like full-band efforts and there is a lot more guitar and keyboard/organ parts that they have been developing on the road. I think things will sound a bit more fleshed-out.
I hope this holds true.
I honestly think that Fevers and Mirrors is his only 100% consistant album.
Consistent yes, but that's of little importance when the quality doesn't stack up to subsequent releases.
Letting Off the Happiness was written and recorded by an 18 year old who was just cutting his teeth as a songwriter and it really shows nowadays.
I'd say the same for Fevers frankly.
the Dessner brothers
Gotta include Matt Berninger as well.
Man oh man is Justin Vernon overrated. He's put out one single album and I can almost guarantee now that he won't produce anything else substantial again. I'd lump Devendra and Joanna Newsom (only claim to fame: getting Van Dyk Parks to arrange some orchestral music for her) in with him too.
Disagree there, For Emma alone towers over anything Oberst has ever done.

[crooked spin]

You guys can cut the hyperbole. It only makes me roll my eyes.

[IWasaCamera]

Your views regarding Fevers and Lifted have the same effect on me.

[cuethejosh]

So you're aware of Will Oldham, Marissa Nadler, Sam Beam, Andy Cabic, Justin Vernon, Jim James, Mark Kozelek, Jeff Tweedy, the Dessner brothers, Joanna Newsom, Devendra Banhart, Kristian Matsson, Bill Callahan, Damien Jurado, Emma Pollock and John Darnielle, all of whom have released a substantial amount of their work within the time Oberst has been recording, and yet you stil lthink he's among the "best" as in, as good and profound a songwriter as these artists?

EDIT - I do not wish to paint a anti-Oberst picture here, as I find him to be a capable, and at times, very good songwriter, but his range is limited. His best work is introspective fare, in which he talks of personal politics in a rather histrionic manner, and it's quite entertaining, but all of Oberst's social or political commentaries come across as clumsy and he hasn't the knack for writing about things greater than himself, which creates a glass-ceiling in terms of his talent that he can't escape.

I agree that he is not the best. But I do believe his up there among the best.
I guess it's just a matter of opinion.

[Cuddleworthy]

So you're aware of Will Oldham, Marissa Nadler, Sam Beam, Andy Cabic, Justin Vernon, Jim James, Mark Kozelek, Jeff Tweedy, the Dessner brothers, Joanna Newsom, Devendra Banhart, Kristian Matsson, Bill Callahan, Damien Jurado, Emma Pollock and John Darnielle, all of whom have released a substantial amount of their work within the time Oberst has been recording, and yet you stil lthink he's among the "best" as in, as good and profound a songwriter as these artists?

EDIT - I do not wish to paint a anti-Oberst picture here, as I find him to be a capable, and at times, very good songwriter, but his range is limited. His best work is introspective fare, in which he talks of personal politics in a rather histrionic manner, and it's quite entertaining, but all of Oberst's social or political commentaries come across as clumsy and he hasn't the knack for writing about things greater than himself, which creates a glass-ceiling in terms of his talent that he can't escape.

Definitely going to disagree with a couple of the writers you mentioned there, but the second paragraph is a pretty good assessment of Conor. Limited in range, yeah, but when it comes to personal politics he's easily near the top.

[B-Bones]

Do you know what the term "abrupt" means?
I'm an English major, what do you think?

[chipdip18]

I would think yes.

[IWasaCamera]

I'm an English major, what do you think?
Considering the post that raised my question, I'm going to go with no.

[B-Bones]

Considering the post that raised my question, I'm going to go with no.

I was being a smart ass about how you told me Skinny Love was far too straight-forward and abrupt compositionally to like. Sorry if my smart-assness goes over your head. Or maybe I just remembered incorrectly and you didn't say abrupt. Either way, let's just joyride it buddy. Peace down, A-Town up.

[IWasaCamera]

I was being a smart ass about how you told me Skinny Love was far too straight-forward and abrupt compositionally to like. Sorry if my smart-assness goes over your head. Or maybe I just remembered incorrectly and you didn't say abrupt. Either way, let's just joyride it buddy. Peace down, A-Town up.
Skinny Love is far too easy and immediate compositionally
The latter. Better luck next time.

[B-Bones]

The latter. Better luck next time.

Ever heard of a synonym? Either way, I'm willing to drop it. I just thought it was funny at the time.

[IWasaCamera]

Ever heard of a synonym? Either way, I'm willing to drop it. I just thought it was funny at the time.
Yes, I have. Ever consulted a dictionary or used the term "abrupt" correctly? I find it hard to believe you're an English major if you believe "easy" and "immediate" are analogous to "abrupt". Here are its definitions to avoid future awkward cases:

1. Unexpectedly sudden: an abrupt change in the weather.
2. Surprisingly curt; brusque: an abrupt answer made in anger.
3. Touching on one subject after another with sudden transitions: abrupt prose.
4. Steeply inclined. See Synonyms at steep (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/steep)1.
5. Botany Terminating suddenly rather than gradually; truncate

Should I post the definition of "synonym" as well?

[chipdip18]

Haha Vinh you slapped away the olive branch with that one.

[B-Bones]

Yes, I have. Ever consulted a dictionary or used the term "abrupt" correctly? I find it hard to believe you're an English major if you believe "easy" and "immediate" are analogous to "abrupt". Here are its definitions to avoid future awkward cases:

1. Unexpectedly sudden: an abrupt change in the weather.


Should I post the definition of "synonym" as well?

I abruptly proved this hipster douche wrong.
I immediately proved this hipster douche wrong.


You're arguing over semantics and the way a word is used. Just get over yourself.
Close e-fucking-nough. Go read pitchfork.

[IWasaCamera]

I abruptly proved this hipster douche wrong.
I immediately proved this hipster douche wrong.
Even these two convenient sentences present different connotations. "I abruptly proved this hipster douche wrong" suggests a sudden, unexpected comment whereas "I immediately proved this hipster douche wrong" merely states that you disproved said individual without delay or hesitation. Can you not discern the difference?
You're arguing over semantics and the way a word is used.
Yes, over whether the word in question is used properly or not. You'd think that someone who is willingly (seems fair to assume but one can never be sure) studying the English language would be concerned with discrepancies in meaning such as those presented earlier. At this point, I can only hope your academic standing is actively being debated or the school you attend is the bottom of the educational barrel. You know, for posterity.
Go read pitchfork.
Glanced at the reviews earlier today, nothing noteworthy.

Got any more gratuitous insults to throw my way in lieu of assessing the matter at hand?

[rosieh93]

I saw MVB last night at the bearsville theater in woodstock. there was about 200 people in the room. the last song was a 15 minute version of "i don't want to die in the hospital" and all their friends and opening bands got on stage and were playing instruments and dancing around ahahha. it was great. the crowd was pretty good too, although there always has to be that once drunk girl standing behind you who won't shut the fuck up.

i haven't really read through the thread but there seems to be alot of hate. i personally thought that they're all really really good musicians, and i love the songs although the lyrics are sometimes kind of cheezy. and they definately put on a great performance... i saw them live once before too.

[fake empire]

If the Postal Service do something better than you, your project has failed.
How do you figure?

[oddwithoutend]

Last couple pages have been a good read.

[micahistheballs]

I wish so much that he'd simply release a bare bones album full of songs like Cape Canaveral and Milk Thistle.

[s.t.e.v.e.n.]

So I've heard good things about the new album.

[micahistheballs]

I still haven't felt an urge to listen.

[s.t.e.v.e.n.]

See me neither. I don't own any of his work and have just barely checked him out,. Never felt compelled to do so. I don't know why.

[micahistheballs]

See me neither. I don't own any of his work and have just barely checked him out,. Never felt compelled to do so. I don't know why.
I really enjoy I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning and LIFTED, but the rest is quite hit or miss.

[s.t.e.v.e.n.]

I really enjoy I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning and LIFTED, but the rest is quite hit or miss.

I should give them a fair listen sometime.

[micahistheballs]

I should give them a fair listen sometime.
I'd certainly suggest checking out those two albums if nothing else.

[chipdip18]

I should give them a fair listen sometime.

I would definitely reccommend Lifted and I'm Wide Awake If you want a taste of Bright Eyes, but other Oberst projects deserve some recommandations as well, such as Desaparacidos - Read Music/Speak Spanish and Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst.

[micahistheballs]

I would definitely reccommend Lifted and I'm Wide Awake If you want a taste of Bright Eyes, but other Oberst projects deserve some recommandations as well, such as Desaparacidos - Read Music/Speak Spanish and Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst.
That self-titled album is so bland. I only enjoy three tracks on the whole thing.

[chipdip18]

That self-titled album is so bland. I only enjoy three tracks on the whole thing.

Isn't definitely not as consistent as Outer South, but i think the songs that are on are better than those on Outer South. Roosevelt Room is the only real objection, but that's a Bright Eyes b-side, so i'm reluctant to factor it into the equations. 'Cape Canaveral' 'Milk Thistle' and 'Eagle On A Pole' own though. I'd choose that to start with since if you can like every song on it, like 'Sausalito' and 'Get-Well-Cards' then you'd really enjoy Outer South.

[Chop[chop]]

Isn't definitely not as consistent as Outer South, but i think the songs that are on are better than those on Outer South. Roosevelt Room is the only real objection, but that's a Bright Eyes b-side, so i'm reluctant to factor it into the equations. 'Cape Canaveral' 'Milk Thistle' and 'Eagle On A Pole' own though. I'd choose that to start with since if you can like every song on it, like 'Sausalito' and 'Get-Well-Cards' then you'd really enjoy Outer South.

I think the exact opposite - most of the songs on Conor Oberst are better than those on Outer South. Outer South has a very different sound when you compare it to every Bright Eyes release. I don't dislike it, but don't think it compares to Bright Eyes or Conor's solo stuff.

What about Fevers and Mirrors too? I love that album.

[theguy77]

every dream gets whittled down like every fool gets wise...

[chipdip18]

;47375722']I think the exact opposite - most of the songs on Conor Oberst are better than those on Outer South. Outer South has a very different sound when you compare it to every Bright Eyes release. I don't dislike it, but don't think it compares to Bright Eyes or Conor's solo stuff.
I don't think we're disagreeing unless i mistyped somewhere. Conor Oberst does have better songs individual, for the ones that are good. Outer South is more consistent, but none of the songs, save a handful, are as good as ones on Conor Oberst.

Outer South was suppose to not sound like Bright Eyes at all. I know it's hard not to compare, i do it anyway as well, but Conor Oberst wanted the Mystic Valley Band to be its own entity, which it is, but is subpar than Bright Eyes haha.

What about Fevers and Mirrors too? I love that album.
I love the album too, but it's not a fair representation of the Bright Eyes sound and how it has evolved, so i wouldn't pick it for a place to start. If the guy liked Desaparacidos and Lifted, then i'd say pick up Fevers and Mirrors since it's a pretty good middle ground.

edit: Even I'm Wide Awake it's probably the most honest way to start, it should be Cassadaga. If they liked Cassadaga, then going back to I'm Wide Awake would have been a good idea.