Sufjan (pronounced Soof-Yahn) Stevens is one of the most intriguing, unique artists that I've ever heard. He has the soul of a singer/songwriter, but within him is the talent of the greatest of composers. His music can go from banjo-led, hushed and contemplative songs one minute, to songs that sound as if they contain a 15-piece orchestra within them the next. While the sound of Sufjan's compositions are quite varied, he always retains the singular ability to describe the lives of every day, working-class people in the greatest of detail.
The 'Michigan' album came at the start of what many thought would be an eventual tribute to all 50 states in the Union. Having been born in Detroit, it was a natural beginning to what would have been an immense undertaking. Unfortunately for everyone, it seems that this idea has stalled after only the second album, 'Illinois', which is an absolute masterpiece in its own right. While 'Illinois' is the more popular, highly rated album of the two, I chose this album due to the fact that it's one of my favorite records to listen to around Christmas time. While the themes may be depressing at times, as Stevens was writing about a region that had dealt with quite a few economic blows, it still contains a message of hope that always manages to put me in a good mood around this time of year.
If you like this, try:
Sufjan Stevens - Seven Swans (2004) [especially if you enjoy the quieter, banjo led tracks]
Sufjan Stevens - Illinois (2005)
Iron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered Days (2004) [a fairly similar folk musician]
