Illinoise by Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens ambitious project of recording an album for all 50 states is almost to weird to take seriously. Is he really going to do it, or is it all tongue-in-cheek? Well, Steven’s second state themed album, Illinoise, suggests that Sufjan just might do it. Helped by publicity over the recall of the album due to an unauthorized Superman image on the cover, Illinoise seems to be receiving good reviews. Steven’s first state album, Michigan, plays like a photo album of memories and sketches of the state where Sufjan was born. Not only is Illinoise a big commitment by Stevens, but it also takes a commitment by anyone patient enough to sit through all 22 tracks. Nevertheless, the diligent will be rewarded. Easily as strong as Michigan, Illinoise has plenty of wit, honesty, and stories to stand on its own as a strong album. With two states down, Stevens still has my attention as an artist to watch. We will have to see if my enthusiasm can hold up after a few more states, though.