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Musical Thesis: Sufjan Stevens "Illinois"

At the center of every album is a musical thesis. To me, Sufjan Stevens' "Illinois" is a concept album of the highest order. Every song is a vivid line in a complete story painting a picture of a state we all know. Within those lines of verse, you meet the most unique people. You can't help, but wonder what life would be like if your paths were to cross. How would you react in their presence? Good, evil or indifferent, each character is someone you might invite to dinner. Stevens creates an album here that reads more like a book; something to be read again and again. Here, are characters to make yourself with which to make yourself familiar. 

 

Thanks for entering my world, 

-Nathan