Grammy's Album of The Year Review: "i,i" - Bon Iver

With the Grammy nominations out, its time for my "album of the year" reviews.  I score each track on whether it stands out, is merely okay, or is a miss. The final score will be out of a high of 100.

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1) "Yi"

This acts as an introduction to the album

2) "iMi"

This track is strong lyrically; "if forgiveness is a chore, what are you waiting for?', however the chorus feels cluttered.

3) "we"

Starting off with a hip-hop beat intro, this deals with facing with what's laid before you; "turn around and face it, you're adjacent to the scar".

4) "Holyfields,"

This track revolves around the option of a regular life. Overall it feels a bit simplistic.

5) "Hey, ma"

This is very calm sounding. There's an eco-message in here, possibly about 'mother earth', "full time, you talk your money up. While it's living in a coal mine".

6) "U (Man Like)"

Piano-driven, this is a ballad dealing with societal problems like homelessness; "Man, like you. Man, improve........How much caring is there of some American love, When there's lovers sleeping in your streets".

7) "Naeem"

There are strong vocals in "Naeem", but the message isn't fully focused.

8) "Jelmore"

Much like the eco-message in "Hey, ma", this goes even further with an apocalyptic-like eco message and feel; "When there's thrift store manager in a poke camadee, And a gas mask on his arm, And one by one by one, We'll all be gone".

9) "Faith"

Light-sounding, this is dealing with his faith, or lack thereof; "I know it's lonely in the dark, And this year's a visitor".

10) "Marion"

This almost seems like a third of a song. There's potential, but I'm not sure what the purpose is of this segment with what I venture is a full song that got cut.

11) "Salem"

With a unique beat, this is about living in an endless cycle.

12) "Sh'Diah"

This track's message is stating that if we can find love for God, then why not with each other. 

13) "RABI"

This dealing with the fact that as we mature, we become both more aware and afraid. Lyrically this track is a bit scattered.

Bon Iver is certainly an acquired taste. I wasn't sure about this album throughout the first few tracks, but it eventually does resonate with what its trying to say. With powerful imagery throughout, this album is definitely warranted a listen. (79.2)

"When We Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go" - Billie Eilish (100)

"Cuz I Love You" (Deluxe) - Lizzo (96.5)

"I Used To Know Her" - H.E.R (84.2)

"Father Of The Bride" - Vampire Weekend (80.5)

"i, i" - Bon Iver (79.2)

"Thank U, Next" - Ariana Grande (75)

"Norman Fucking Rockwell" - Lana Del Rey (64.3)