Something Like Sound

As the decade draws to a close, music reviewers have taken to making lists of the best and most influential albums of the 00’s. With this in mind, rather than reviewing a new release this week I thought it would be fitting to talk about one of my personal favorites, Wilco’s 2002 record Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.

Recorded at a time when Wilco was on the verge of going big, Foxtrot almost didn’t happen. The arduous experience of recording and dealing with record labels and line-up changes was documented in a feature-length documentary from Sam Jones titled I Am Trying To Break Your Heart. Eventually, however, the record saw the light of day and has remained a staple in the Wilco catalogue.

From the opening track, “I Am Trying To Break Your Heart,” Jeff Tweedy & Co. set the foundations for the entire record. A combination of Wilco’s “wall of sound” recording techniques and Tweedy’s subtle, yet strong, vocals establish the overriding themes that carry throughout the rest of the album.

From the start Foxtrot ebbs and flows. While “Kamera” is an upbeat pop song, “Radio Cures” quickly drops down to more introspective lyrics and melodies, picking back up on the single “War on War.” I could continue giving play-by-plays of each track, but that would be long and wordy, so here are the highlights.

“Ashes of American Flags” is a great slow burner, “Heavy Metal Drummer” will inevitably get stuck in your head (it is just that catchy), and the closer “Reservations” is hauntingly beautiful (it will give you goose-bumps).

Perhaps what sets Yankee Hotel Foxtrot apart from most albums made during the last 10 years is that it has incredible replay value. Each time I listen to this record I find something new that I had not noticed on previous listening. Furthermore, the lyrical themes have remained relevant and possess a rare timelessness.

Watch the opening credits to the film I Am Trying To Break Your Heart below.