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. 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.
  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. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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
  8. 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
  9. 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.
  10. 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
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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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