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

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  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. All_ButTrU4
    Jun 7, 2022
    8
    most subtle incorporation of drum machines, horns, and vocal effects transforms Bon Iver’s music from the quiet afterthought that characterizes much of today’s indie-folk into a sonic landscape of moods and nuances.
  3. 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
  4. 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.
  5. hdcooper
    Apr 8, 2021
    9
    A cathartic piece that builds you up just to tear you right back down to you core.

    9.2/10
  6. kuhlmusic
    May 11, 2020
    10
    An album filled with pure raw and unfiltered emotion in a time of isolation and self awareness and a sound that is calm and comforting that brings nostalgia. A beautiful masterpiece
  7. kermie_the_frog
    Jan 5, 2020
    10
    This record might just be among the top 5 most beautiful albums I've ever heard. Perfect indie folk album. It's devastating, many moments on here are so painfully crushing, but he still manages to close the record in a hopeful light with what I believe to be possibly the most brilliant closer song ever: Re: Stacks.
  8. ACRendon
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    For Emma, Forever Ago delivers resonant music that captivates listeners with surreal music that paces parallel with the cold melancholy of the inspired narratives. Vernon, with his artillery of masterclass lyricism and music, echoes his soul that leaves a bittersweet aftertaste of haunting sadness and picturesque imagery.
  9. 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
  10. C_dot
    May 22, 2019
    10
    Justin Vernon's musical genius is impossible to deny on this album. You can hear his pure emotion and rawness on each and every track. Vernon's voice is hauntingly beautiful, and often the listener gets lost within this album.
  11. MoralSupport
    Apr 29, 2018
    10
    This album is sadder than In The Aeroplane Over The Sea, more intimate than Either/Or, and more expressive than anything released in the 2000s.
  12. Ricko
    Jan 7, 2018
    9
    One of the records of the decade and one that would became a plaform for a superstar to launch from. This has beautiful songs, unique arrangements and a genuine rawness that only gets captured on record properly once every few years. On the surface this is sparse and simple but getting simplicity so right takes incredible talent. Bon Iver do an awful lot with very little on this album.One of the records of the decade and one that would became a plaform for a superstar to launch from. This has beautiful songs, unique arrangements and a genuine rawness that only gets captured on record properly once every few years. On the surface this is sparse and simple but getting simplicity so right takes incredible talent. Bon Iver do an awful lot with very little on this album. Highly recommended album from a highly recommended artist. Amazing.… Expand
  13. UWGamer83
    Feb 3, 2017
    10
    For an album to be considered truly great, in my opinion, it must work its way into the fabric of your very soul. Only about 4 or 5 albums thus far have done that. This is one of them. A beautifully cathartic and heartbreaking record, recorded in isolation in snowy conditions, Justin Vernon shows the cold side of romance. This album encapsulates all of my life experience with love andFor an album to be considered truly great, in my opinion, it must work its way into the fabric of your very soul. Only about 4 or 5 albums thus far have done that. This is one of them. A beautifully cathartic and heartbreaking record, recorded in isolation in snowy conditions, Justin Vernon shows the cold side of romance. This album encapsulates all of my life experience with love and isolation and heartbreak. It reminds me of a dear friend. It isn't for everyone and the kick of electric guitar on only two songs might not be enough for some people. But for me and many others, it's enough, the instrumentation amplified by what isn't there rather than what is. This will likely be a favorite of mine for many years to come!… Expand
  14. ellisfetus
    May 30, 2015
    10
    Throw this up as my favorite album of all time, there isn't a single bad song in the collection. It is filled with emotion and is incredibly relate-able.
  15. chapmania
    Apr 21, 2015
    10
    I could go on for a while, but I won't.

    This is my favorite album. Although I understand why so many people don't like it. To enjoy it, you have to be able to connect with the story. It's that simple. It's like watching a broken heart heal over time. It's haunting, because it can take you back to times in your own life that you might not want to remember. Yet still, it triumphs in    I could go on for a while, but I won't.

    This is my favorite album. Although I understand why so many people don't like it. To enjoy it, you have to be able to connect with the story. It's that simple.

    It's like watching a broken heart heal over time. It's haunting, because it can take you back to times in your own life that you might not want to remember. Yet still, it triumphs in the end because it is a story of healing and of progress.

    Justin Vernon certainly isn't 100% better at the end of the album - life can cut us pretty deep and scars will inevitably remain. But that doesn't mean the process isn't beautiful - even essential, to living life. And listening to him illustrate this process in himself is an intimate thing that's totally unexpected in music today.

    More than 10/10 - this is so raw, so genuine, and so honest that it shouldn't really be rated. It's a work of art that will survive long after the artist for millions to experience. Some will love it, some will hate it, and many will fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum (as I do). In a strange way, that's what makes For Emma, Forever Ago so special.    … Expand
  16. longjetty7
    Mar 6, 2015
    9
    This album is simple, sweet, and unpretentious, yet that's exactly why it's so special. The music is melancholy and introspective and the vocals are timid and emotional, but at the same time there's something very uplifting about this album. It's really great music to get lost in, especially if you're laying in bed, studying, or driving down the highway late at night. This is definitely anThis album is simple, sweet, and unpretentious, yet that's exactly why it's so special. The music is melancholy and introspective and the vocals are timid and emotional, but at the same time there's something very uplifting about this album. It's really great music to get lost in, especially if you're laying in bed, studying, or driving down the highway late at night. This is definitely an album I'll be listening to over and over again.… Expand
  17. ImmersedInSound
    Nov 18, 2014
    9
    Beautifully sung, written, arranged and just beautiful in general.
    For Emma, Forever Ago connects with the listener in a way which Justin Vernon does very easily. The lyrics effortlessly provoke all kinds of feelings. Something which modern music almost never does nowadays. Skinny Love and Creature Fear are especially brilliant.
  18. renatomoraesp
    Oct 28, 2014
    10
    Listening to this album is an unique experience that I recommend to everyone who likes really good music - not just as a piece of fun, but totally art. My favorite band, by far.
  19. godwinkent888
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    Words cannot explain how much I love this album. There's a comforting feeling in this album-- it's heartbreaking, but at the same time, it has a light of optimism that shines. This album is relaxing and Justin Vernon's singing is distinctive.
  20. TheRanter26
    Mar 20, 2014
    9
    Decided to get back into Bon Iver. This is a beautiful album. Justin's voice is so haunting and his falsetto is to die for. The simplicity of it enhances it fully, their second album falls from being over produced. Justin escaped into the Woods for a few months to work on this album and you can hear that perfectly here. The music has this tone and attitude where the wilderness is all youDecided to get back into Bon Iver. This is a beautiful album. Justin's voice is so haunting and his falsetto is to die for. The simplicity of it enhances it fully, their second album falls from being over produced. Justin escaped into the Woods for a few months to work on this album and you can hear that perfectly here. The music has this tone and attitude where the wilderness is all you can picture. It sounds as a longing to get free and want to be away.

    His vocals on ever song is beautiful, especially the harmonies with himself on The Wolves Act 1 & 2. Musically it's easy and accessible to listen to. The only place this album has some faults is with lyrics. On songs like Lump Sum, Blindsided, and Creature Fear, they are questionable. But at other times they rip through like beautiful poetry, and talent is undeniable.

    The Wolves Act 1 & 2, Flume, Skinny Love, and re: Stacks, are the highlight tracks easily. They have the most emotion and power to them and that's where Bon Iver really shines. Sure if you're in a blissful carefree mood, Bon Iver is not the band to go to, but if you need to cry, need to be picked up some, need something nice, this is the perfect place to go.

    There isn't too much to comment, because it's an incredible album plain and simple. A must listen to from the last decade.

    A-    … Expand
  21. jdavidlantz
    Oct 25, 2013
    10
    The soulful lo-fi tones of Bon Iver’s debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago, exude the loneliness and heartbreak that characterized the writing and recording of the songs by Justin Verner in a remote cabin in the wintry woods of Wisconsin. Beautifully balanced, the album moves from one haunting melody to the next, each track building and developing it into a story of lost love and longing. ItThe soulful lo-fi tones of Bon Iver’s debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago, exude the loneliness and heartbreak that characterized the writing and recording of the songs by Justin Verner in a remote cabin in the wintry woods of Wisconsin. Beautifully balanced, the album moves from one haunting melody to the next, each track building and developing it into a story of lost love and longing. It starts with the slow tones of Flume and progresses to the more upbeat horns in For Emma before dialing back down to end with the poetic lyrics and simple guitar riffs of Re: Stacks.

    For Emma, Forever Ago plucks at old memories of long-lost loves, and is a rare treat in a fast-paced world, inviting you to slow down, have a cup of tea, and watch the snow fall softly down outside a cabin in the woods.
         … Expand
  22. benpaco
    Jun 25, 2013
    10
    Incredible album. My favorite of all time,really. One of the complaints I've read on message boards and the like is that the lyrics are "nonsensical". This just means you aren't really listening. This album tells a very detailed, very intricate story. Very slight details are incredible here. For those who don't get it:

    Flume Icarus’ story is a metaphor for getting too close to someone    Incredible album. My favorite of all time,really. One of the complaints I've read on message boards and the like is that the lyrics are "nonsensical". This just means you aren't really listening. This album tells a very detailed, very intricate story. Very slight details are incredible here. For those who don't get it:

    Flume Icarus’ story is a metaphor for getting too close to someone and then losing them
    Lump Getting over that un-named girl, and falling for “Emma”
    Skinny Love Short mutual love as they slowly grew apart
    The Wolves Complete loss of love from “Emma”, which slowly wears away at him as she won’t tell him she’s moved on, but Justin knows now
    Blindsided He saw a breakup coming, but something made it especially tough, past just a breakup. Perhaps another guy, etc.
    Creature Fear The fear of seeing “Emma” around and saying something stupid/embarrassing
    Team Time Passes
    For Emma He still loves Emma and attempts once more to get her back
    RE: Stacks Re-rejection hits hard, maybe even via e-mail, hence the “RE:”. She has no love for him at all, and not even enough respect for him to have that conversation in person
    Wisconsin About moving on and trying to find yourself again

    As Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) said in an interview, "Everyone has an Emma". This album will hit home if you've ever been rejected, broken up with, or in love. Truly incredible.Too bad 10 is the highest rating I can give it.    … Expand
  23. Take-it-from-me
    May 28, 2013
    10
    This album is the example set when one thinks about good music. It's amazing what such a talented musician when they go back to their roots. Every song as beautiful as the other and every word a painful memory to a proud belief, this album deserves the best ratings from every critic.
  24. TuataraTim
    Jan 30, 2013
    10
    A beautiful, yet sparse debut. Vernon flays his very heart out for the listener. It is full of pure, raw emotion. The guitars are perfectly placed, juxtaposed by Vernon's introspective, albeit mysterious lyrics.
  25. cameronmorewood
    Nov 9, 2012
    9
    Sad, sorrowful, and, at times, quite powerful. Bon Iver's debut will quietly blow you away.
  26. charlesobrien
    Sep 9, 2012
    10
    Beautiful, Eerie and intimate. Bon Iver at its finest.
  27. Leftyy
    Mar 28, 2012
    8
    This is a pretty nice album with a subtle and interesting feel to it. It's the type of music you would listen to if you were camping with a bunch of friends and you got stuck in a rainstorm in the middle of the afternoon. Give it a chance, it's a fine listen.
  28. Michaelkirkpat
    Dec 3, 2011
    8
    Refreshing, soulful album. New sound for alternative, and we can only hope we keeps this up. Crossroads will happen if he decides to continue to experiment or move to a more mainstream sound
  29. Vampire25
    Aug 22, 2011
    10
    Justin Vernon has one of the most beautiful falsetto I've ever heard. This album is a slice of pure musical genius. Each track is beautifully written and gets better with each listen. I never found this to be an entertaining album but after listening to it a few times, it's really grown on me. Lump Sum is easily the best track on this album but every other track is amazing also. All InJustin Vernon has one of the most beautiful falsetto I've ever heard. This album is a slice of pure musical genius. Each track is beautifully written and gets better with each listen. I never found this to be an entertaining album but after listening to it a few times, it's really grown on me. Lump Sum is easily the best track on this album but every other track is amazing also. All In All, "For Emma, Forever Ago" is an extremely well written album and I highly recommend this to anyone. A… Collapse
  30. 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
  31. littlehedonist
    Jun 20, 2011
    10
    It is heartbreakingly lovely, personal, and visceral. It is perfect for lying in bed and dozing, reading, or having on outside in the sun for a day. This album couldn't be better.
  32. PaperCoversRock
    Jun 16, 2011
    10
    A truly cathartic masterpiece of a debut album from Justin Vernon. What started as a retreat ended in creation, that creation came in the form of "For Emma, Forever Ago". Like many, the first song that peaked my interest was "Skinny Love" (please don't pretend like you're "over" this track because it's popular you elitist douche) every song on the album builds and destroys, pushes andA truly cathartic masterpiece of a debut album from Justin Vernon. What started as a retreat ended in creation, that creation came in the form of "For Emma, Forever Ago". Like many, the first song that peaked my interest was "Skinny Love" (please don't pretend like you're "over" this track because it's popular you elitist douche) every song on the album builds and destroys, pushes and pulls, burns and freezes the emotions of a bitter heartbreak and quiet defeat of denial.I've never met a person who has taken the time to sit down and listen to this album and not love...if these people exist...I would rather never acknowledge their existence for as long as I live.… Expand
  33. vmd1020
    Jun 2, 2011
    10
    5000 characters isn't enough so I'll sum it up with this: perfect. I can honestly listen to this album anytime/season/place etc...easily in my Top 10 albums of all time (talking about ones made in my lifetime).
  34. coelho14
    Nov 17, 2010
    10
    Every word penetrates our hearts like a recognition of our most sincere feelings. This is a perfect album, where every song feels like it's meant to exist. It's impossible to get tired off every single one of this musics...
  35. Dave
    Nov 25, 2009
    10
    The only thing I can add to what everybody else has said about this incredible album is that it breaks your heart.
  36. JoeH.
    Sep 24, 2009
    10
    Best album released for years, the lyrical content is something to admire, completely compelled to listen to it at least once a day even though its been out for over a year, thanks Justin.
  37. ScottW
    Apr 30, 2009
    10
    Its Wounder an album like this is made today. Art, folk rock at a finest level. Never wavers nor falls short. Just bleeds all the way through to the end.
  38. DavidS
    Apr 16, 2009
    10
    WOW! I am an avid music lover and rarely come across a musician who leaves me speechless. Reviews suggesting this is a "good" sophomore effort, but could have been better leave me dumbfounded! The lyrics, singing, and phrasing are simply amazing. Note one album in the recent past the has so much emotional intensity and intense lyricism! Bon Iver is the "real deal" and I only hope he WOW! I am an avid music lover and rarely come across a musician who leaves me speechless. Reviews suggesting this is a "good" sophomore effort, but could have been better leave me dumbfounded! The lyrics, singing, and phrasing are simply amazing. Note one album in the recent past the has so much emotional intensity and intense lyricism! Bon Iver is the "real deal" and I only hope he continues to produce such amazing and beautiful songs. Absolutely fantastic!… Expand
  39. HayroC
    Mar 19, 2009
    5
    The album is good, but some songs are boring.
  40. scotta.
    Jan 14, 2009
    10
    For Emma, Forever Ago perfectly captures the feelings of both the cold and warmth of a long winter. I have played this album non-stop since I discovered it over the summer. Overall one of my all-time favorite records.
  41. wimk.
    Jan 9, 2009
    10
    Great, fantastic. Great, gloomy and genious!
  42. AniruddhaB.
    Jan 6, 2009
    9
    Beautiful album. Justin Vernon's voice is so intimate... yet so intense... the best of the year for me along with portishead's third.
  43. PaulB.
    Dec 30, 2008
    10
    Best album of 2008. The Vinyl interprets the space of the cabin in a way the CD just can't. But in any medium this is a record worth hearing. The live shows with Wilco were outstanding.
  44. ahmada.
    Dec 22, 2008
    10
    Album of the year, with Skinny Love as the track of the year.
  45. BillS.
    Dec 22, 2008
    10
    Hands down, album of the year. Beautiful.
  46. StephanieS.
    Dec 18, 2008
    10
    I loved it. Best by far. He easily slipped this one as my top album. I live in Wisconsin. This is the sound track of my life, captured by lovely vocals and incredible lyrics.
  47. 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.
  48. scottRoth
    Dec 3, 2008
    10
    This is amazing! one of my favs this year. if your going to listen to anything this is a must.
  49. MS
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Justin Vernon is a very talented musician and always has been. Anything he has ever written, including music off of this album, is perfection.
  50. JayL.
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    Songs to download are Creature Fear/Team, Flume, Re: Stacks and The Wolves, if not the whole thing. Amazing, amazing work. His voice and his harmonies are just plain beautiful.
  51. MarkF.
    Oct 23, 2008
    10
    I listen to this CD in my car and find myself transported. Even my kids love the songs. This is such a transformational CD that i am telling all of my friends about it. I cant wait to hear what he does next. he reminds me a bit of Sufjan Stevens!
  52. NeiloM.
    Oct 14, 2008
    9
    Buy this one on vinyl and let-er-spin on a Sunday morning while you're blankly staring at birds out the window. "Skinny Love" is just OK people (a nice sounding pop styled song... but not the best song on the album!) The "Wolves" songs are much more layered and unexpected in sound and rhythm. Great sound-scape of an album. Somewhat haunting...great poetry.
  53. JJ
    Oct 14, 2008
    10
    This album is a very soothing and calming release. I first heard it while in Iraq and have been a fan since. His music was just what I needed on those rough days when tempers flared and situations were nearly out of control...I would go and listen to this album to calm down.
  54. DannyV.
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    I love music that surprises me. Like many great albums, For Emma, Forever Ago has taken several listens fully grasp the raw beauty of Bon Iver's music. Very easily a contender for album of the year.
  55. MaxM.
    Sep 17, 2008
    9
    If you count this album as a 2008 release, it is definitely the best of 2008. If you count Justin Vernon's individual release of 2007, Bon Iver is the second best of 2007 with you-know-what in first (In Rainbows). Very good music for someone who recorded in a remote cabin in Wisconsin for four months.
  56. 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.
  57. RobertoC.
    Aug 25, 2008
    9
    Reaches out to your inner loneliness but in a good way. Very original.
  58. Bill
    Aug 23, 2008
    9
    One of the more unique albums in recent memory. His voice is very specific and fits the overall mood of the cd's themes very well. Look forward to more of him.
  59. OleM
    Aug 20, 2008
    10
    Stunning, absolutely stunning.
  60. Brian
    Aug 19, 2008
    10
    I have never heard anything quite like this. It is absolutely brilliant.
  61. BelleJ
    Aug 15, 2008
    9
    This is such a stunning album. I've heard it so many times, and it's still fantastic. I love how different his voice is, and all of the harmonies, and how EVERY song amazes me. It's a really great album.
  62. MauriceS.
    Aug 1, 2008
    10
    Such sadness, but such beauty. His voice stays with me for hours
  63. MatthewM.
    Jul 22, 2008
    10
    This is the first record I have ever listened to where I don't want to share my opinions on it simply because i wouldn't want to say something stupid that took away from its shocking beauty. The one point I will make and this is something that keeps entering my head everytime i hear this album is how distinctly American it is. In no other country could I see this type of album This is the first record I have ever listened to where I don't want to share my opinions on it simply because i wouldn't want to say something stupid that took away from its shocking beauty. The one point I will make and this is something that keeps entering my head everytime i hear this album is how distinctly American it is. In no other country could I see this type of album being made. Harbored in folk and soul but expressed through solitude, loneliness, and yes (lame as it might sound) freedom Justin Vernon has captured the actual American spirit that so many country acts have pitifully grasped at.… Expand
  64. AndrewP.
    Jul 13, 2008
    10
    Simply inspiring.
  65. Jason
    Jun 18, 2008
    9
    Grand record considering how mellow and stripped down it is. Some great ambiance behind the rhythmic strumming of the guitar. Opening track, Flume, and skinny love are the best...I love it when a record opens up upon repeated listenings. Goes well with Neil Young's Live 1971 Massey Hall.
  66. WesP.
    Jun 13, 2008
    10
    When I first heard this album, by the third song, my brain had begun to re-wire itself, neurons grew, new synapses formed. I will never be the same. This is one album that I will try my best to keep to myself, like a briefcase full of cash you find in an alley.
  67. BenF.
    Jun 11, 2008
    9
    A masterpiece.
  68. MissW
    Jun 2, 2008
    10
    It has been long since I heard this album first time but what I remember is this magical feeling. It makes this CD timeless sailing through my mind. Album has only 9 tracks but sometimes it's better to put some really good melodies on the disc and leave the less shiny behind. Songs for Emma are picked with love and by a big ear which knows how to get into humans soul.
  69. JennaR.
    May 30, 2008
    10
    Absolutely amazing sound; pure emotion and thought.
  70. FelipeP.
    May 20, 2008
    10
    Fantastic album, unique voice.
  71. RossL
    May 19, 2008
    10
    Simply Brilliant.
  72. ElliotC.
    May 18, 2008
    10
    Perfect. Whatever the situation you find yourself listening to this album, every song suits every eventuality. But there is still more to come no doubt, looking forward to seeing where he goes in his career.
  73. SenorDiscount
    May 18, 2008
    10
    Get to this fellow's show - live in fact better than fiction.
  74. TimTom
    May 15, 2008
    10
    What can I say-- this album is too good to be lumped into any sort of genre. For Emma.. gives me that feeling of being kissed for the very first time. I'm pretty sure its going to be the best thing to come out this year.
  75. RuiR.
    May 15, 2008
    10
    The real American ballads os XXI century. Genetics: American Music Club, Cowboy Junkies. I love it. Come to Portugal, one day.
  76. DarenH.
    May 12, 2008
    10
    My favourite record of the year. An ambient, honest, simple, soul-searchingly wonderful record. Can't stop listening to it.
  77. LinusG.
    May 8, 2008
    10
    Re: Stacks must be the most beautiful sentimental song I have ever heard. Great to listen to when looking at old pictures from college parties.
  78. BenG.
    Apr 26, 2008
    10
    This album is fantastic. It's so raw and emotional. It's hands-down the best album of the year.
  79. ChadS.
    Apr 24, 2008
    10
    On the title track, this songwriter uses, then surpasses, the best Damien Jurado("Tragedy"), M. Ward("Chinese Translation"), and Beiruit("Postcards from Italy"), song. It sounds like the soundtrack to Rob Sheffield's "Love is a Mix Tape", the memoir about the rock critic's late-rock critic wife. Of all the sadly beautiful songs on "For Emma, Forever Ago, "For Emma" is the most On the title track, this songwriter uses, then surpasses, the best Damien Jurado("Tragedy"), M. Ward("Chinese Translation"), and Beiruit("Postcards from Italy"), song. It sounds like the soundtrack to Rob Sheffield's "Love is a Mix Tape", the memoir about the rock critic's late-rock critic wife. Of all the sadly beautiful songs on "For Emma, Forever Ago, "For Emma" is the most sadly beautiful. It might be the best of its kind since Elton John's "Your Song". "Skinny Love" is my other favorite. Violent Femmes didn't do punk, but they gave good pathos on acoustical instruments, just like "Skinny Love". The "creature" in "Creature Fear", must be the girl, the proverbial "Emma", but it's also a funny reference to the animals outside this songwriter's "recording studio", his cabin. A raccoon? A chinchilla? A rabbit with rabies? He's girl and squirrel afraid. I'm afraid I'll never hear another album like "For Emma, Forever Ago". This is rare music, indeed.… Expand
  80. TR.
    Apr 18, 2008
    9
    Cool album. I can't wait for his next.
  81. Craig
    Apr 17, 2008
    10
    I think this was the best album of 2007. Hauntingly beautiful. Skinny Love never gets old.
  82. foxoff
    Apr 17, 2008
    8
    Wow, this is a brilliant album. I am giving an 8 because it lets itself down a little towards the end and well, since I believe nothing's ever perfect, 9 is my highest score. Skinny Love is going to be played to everyone who will listen and who I believe will appreciate it. There's some others too, but that one hit me right away. Nice job!
  83. MarcG.
    Apr 16, 2008
    7
    Decent effort...must confirm the next time.
  84. Alex
    Apr 1, 2008
    9
    This may seem redundant, since I completely agree with Josh. When I first heard it I thought, "Tunde Adekimpe?" (lead singer of TV On The Radio). The songwriting and song craftsmanship is gorgeous, and Skinny Love and Creature Fear are fantastic.
  85. NP
    Mar 26, 2008
    10
    Though I frequent this site regularly for music recommendations, I rarely rate albums. That said, this is one of the most beautiful and affective albums I have ever heard. I know that sounds like a grand and thoughtless statement, but it's true. My response to it was immediate. It's indie rock-soul-folk, and it's gorgeous.
  86. SueS.
    Mar 24, 2008
    10
    Beautiful album - has a depth of sound and feeling - my favorite song changes each time I listen to it. Makes me homesick.
  87. Anna
    Mar 23, 2008
    10
    I saw him in concert in November about a month after discovering him on the internet. His performance was poignant and moving, like his songs. It is a lonely yet complacent record, and Vernon sets that tone on every track. This album is a stunning debut, Vernon has the capacity to be both irresistable and haunting.
  88. Justin
    Mar 23, 2008
    10
    Intimate. Hypnotic. Beautiful. Intense.
  89. Sam
    Mar 22, 2008
    10
    Easily the best indie album of the year (so far). Painfully evocative of the rural setting which inspired him and a truly masterful acoustic opus.
  90. MIkeB.
    Mar 21, 2008
    9
    Pick this one up. You won't regret it. Gentle, sad and haunting. Vernon's only gotten better since his Mount Vernon days.
  91. OwenP.
    Mar 21, 2008
    10
    Such a gripping listen. His voice is precious. As the album progresses, you can almost envision the 3 months he spent in a cabin tucked away in Wisconsin's hinterland. Although thoroughly enjoying this album at the moment, I can't help but look forward to future albums from Justin, aka. Bon Iver.
  92. DavidB.
    Mar 21, 2008
    10
    I just fell in love with this album tonight so take the "10" rating for what it is. But as far as first impressions go it doesnt get much better than this for me. Beautiful record.
  93. wisdomwisdom
    Mar 21, 2008
    10
    Briliant...
  94. TedG.
    Mar 20, 2008
    10
    The guitar reminds me of Elliott Smith and the off-putting at first that grow on you vocals remind me of the first few times I listened to the Pixies. Definitely worth multiple listenings.
  95. R
    Mar 6, 2008
    10
    This is the best record I've heard in a long long time.
  96. TimT.
    Mar 6, 2008
    10
    incredibly refreshing; I say with no uncertainty that this is the most beautiful album I have ever listened to.
  97. SleimanC.
    Mar 5, 2008
    10
    Great album from this french artist! Merci!
  98. AlanR.
    Mar 2, 2008
    10
    Amazing album. Sounds like Tunde Adepimbe from TV on the Radio meets the instrumentation of Sam Beam. Great for late nights or early morning car drives to work. My only complaint is that this rerelease came out at the end of winter. Would have been a great soundtrack for December and January.
  99. [Anonymous]
    Mar 1, 2008
    10
    Great record, but to get the full deal see them LIVE. Just saw them open for Black mountain in Halifax, Nova Scotia and was floored. Holds a nice spot right next to the handsome family and all my Palace Music. Solid talent to be reckoned with
  100. T.Nixon
    Feb 28, 2008
    10
    Wow ... Easily album of the year for me. I have never had an album grab me the way this has. A moment of musical genius.
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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
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