The Age of Adz (pronounced Odds) is Sufjan Stevens' first full-length collection of original songs since 2005's conceptual pop opus Illinois. While the sounds on this record are distinctly "artificial" (drums machines and analog synths reign supreme), the proclamations of the songs are unabashedly visceral, sung loudly, with a backdrop of insistent orchestration. The result is an album that is perhaps more vibrant, primary and explicit than anything Sufjan has done before, incorporating themes that are neither historical nor civic, but rather personal and primal (if even a little juvenile).
A brave, wonderful record. Pushing the boundaries of popular independent music whilst managing to retain the heart and character of his breakthrough albums. What a feat.
This took me forever to finally listen to, but I'm so glad I did. It's amazing! I seriously really enjoy this. 'Impossible Soul' is beautiful! I would kill to see him perform it live.
A pretty big departure from Illinois. Stevens uses a lot more electronic music here while still keeping his style of arrangement. The last track is 25 minutes long and manages to stay exciting.