Joanna Newsom: Ys (2LP) [DRAG CITY]

Why you'll love it

Ys is one of the most acclaimed albums of the 2000s, an extraordinary, utterly unique record that pairs Newsom's harp and voice with sweeping orchestral arrangements.

This edition

• 2LP set
• Drag City pressing

About the album

Harpist and singer Joanna Newsom made Ys with an astonishing team: legendary arranger Van Dyke Parks wrote the orchestral parts, Steve Albini recorded her harp and voice, and Jim O'Rourke mixed. Its five songs run from seven to almost 17 minutes, full of rich, poetic storytelling.

"Emily" is a soaring, gorgeous opener, "Monkey & Bear" is a whimsical fable, "Sawdust & Diamonds" is performed on solo harp, and "Cosmia" brings the album to a radiant close.

Also at Kops: more Joanna Newsom on vinyl · browse Folk

Tracklist

Listen

On Drag City, first out in 2006.