For Emma, Forever Ago
by Bon Iver
User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 440 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 401 out of 440
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 440
  3. Negative: 29 out of 440

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. clem666
    Jul 30, 2023
    8
    Bon Iver's debut album, "For Emma, Forever Ago," takes listeners on a heartfelt and soul-stirring journey through haunting melodies and raw emotions. Justin Vernon's unique falsetto vocals and poignant songwriting create an intimate atmosphere that resonates with the depths of human experiences.

    'For Emma, Forever Ago' is a collection of intimate acoustic arrangements that perfectly    Bon Iver's debut album, "For Emma, Forever Ago," takes listeners on a heartfelt and soul-stirring journey through haunting melodies and raw emotions. Justin Vernon's unique falsetto vocals and poignant songwriting create an intimate atmosphere that resonates with the depths of human experiences.

    'For Emma, Forever Ago' is a collection of intimate acoustic arrangements that perfectly complement Vernon's vulnerable storytelling. The stripped-down production emphasizes the raw emotions, creating a sense of authenticity and connection with the artist's innermost thoughts.

    However, the album's only flaw lies in its slight repetitiveness. While the emotional intensity remains consistent throughout, some listeners as myself might find the similar musical motifs and themes somewhat disappointing. A touch of variation in the musical arrangements could have elevated the overall listening experience.

    "For Emma, Forever Ago" is undeniably a deeply personal and soulful offering that captures the essence of human emotions. Despite the slight repetitiveness. Bon Iver's debut masterpiece remains a poignant and timeless work of art that continues to captivate listeners with its emotional depth and authenticity despite being a bit overrated though.    … Expand
  2. Shaymooose
    Aug 18, 2019
    8
    Beautiful Debut. Bon Iver's music is consistently always beautiful.

    Best Tracks: Skinny Love, Flume, The Wolves(Act I and II),For Emma, Team
    Worst Tracks: Lump Some
  3. Wanesta
    Jan 9, 2022
    8
    An honorable debut by Bon Iver with soothing vocals and enchanting instrumentals. Something to bring comfort and warmth back into a cold broken heart. It's perhaps a bit rudimentary, but nonetheless effective.
  4. MarcG.
    Apr 16, 2008
    7
    Decent effort...must confirm the next time.
  5. JyotirmayaD.
    Sep 13, 2008
    7
    The only crime with this beautiful album is that it is not longer than it is... Another 15 minutes or 2, 3 songs would have been awesome.
  6. garfield7081
    Mar 25, 2022
    7
    really depressing album, it feels as if you can hear the isolation vernon put himself through. however, some songs feel as if they overstay their welcome.

    best song: skinny love

    worst song: blindsided
  7. MattH.
    Dec 12, 2008
    5
    Every song on the album is good, as is the overall mood presented, but it felt like I was listening to one very very long song. Just not enough variety.
  8. HayroC
    Mar 19, 2009
    5
    The album is good, but some songs are boring.
  9. ns151
    Jul 14, 2011
    5
    In a word- it's boring. It has its moments, like "Skinny Love," a track that actually features some loud/soft dynamics, but the rest is just too monotone. The man makes it clear that he's been hurt and for a little while, makes you care. Unfortunately, while listening to this album, I kept waiting for so many of the tracks to actually go somewhere, and they hardly ever did. If you are aIn a word- it's boring. It has its moments, like "Skinny Love," a track that actually features some loud/soft dynamics, but the rest is just too monotone. The man makes it clear that he's been hurt and for a little while, makes you care. Unfortunately, while listening to this album, I kept waiting for so many of the tracks to actually go somewhere, and they hardly ever did. If you are a fan of the "one man playing an acoustic guitar softly" genre (think Iron & Wine's earlier albums), you may well love this as many others like you have. Otherwise, you will find this to be overhyped and disappointing.… Expand
  10. OkeeMokee
    Feb 28, 2008
    4
    What a bore!
Page:

Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best Album of 2008
15
#15 Most Discussed Album of 2008
17
#17 Most Shared Album of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. cokemachineglow
    79
    A sure-footed assertion of the artist's individual talents and landing it a spot among the best folk records of 2007 has to offer.
    Read full review
  2. NOW Magazine
    80
    As good as it is, it’s clear that Vernon still has room to grow. A few songs could have used a little extra instrumental kick, and while his songs are great, you can tell he has more to offer. Keep an eye on this one.
    Read full review
  3. Pitchfork
    81
    Vernon gives a soulful performance full of intuitive swells and fades, his phrasing and pronunciation making his voice as much a purely sonic instrument as his guitar.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »