The Edge’s Top Albums of 2011: #4

Bon Iver — Bon Iver, Bon Iver

Released 20th June 2011, 4AD

Number 4 on The Edge‘s Top Albums of 2011 list is the self-titled second studio album by American indie folk band Bon Iver. Released in June, the album peaked at number 4 on the UK Albums Chart.

Statistics:

Included in the top-ten lists of 23% of contributors
Of those, 67% ranked the album in their top three
Ranked the album of the year by two contributors

Review by James Wignall, writer (did not rank the album):

To listen to Bon Iver’s eponymous second album is to be enveloped in a lush natural landscape so carefully evoked by frontman Justin Vernon. While seldom upbeat in the same way as ‘Skinny Love’ off his previous record, the mood of Bon Iver, Bon Iver is more serene than melancholy. Comprised not so much of ‘songs’ but simply of music, Vernon’s distinctive layered vocals never dominate; his intimate yet cryptic lyrics interact closely with a wealth of other instruments, creating a uniquely organic sound. Hauntingly beautiful, whatever stories Vernon’s seemingly abstract lyrics may tell you can be sure Bon Iver will stay with you for a long time.

Other accolades: