About this album
Where they were
Released in January 2002, 'Hard Candy' is the Counting Crows' fourth studio album, following their successful 'This Desert Life.' At this point, the band was navigating a transitional phase, attempting to balance their established sound with new influences while still striving for mainstream appeal.
Why it matters
The album reached number 16 on the Billboard 200 chart and received mixed reviews from critics, with some noting its departure from earlier work. Its singles, particularly 'American Girls,' contributed to the band's ongoing presence in early 2000s rock, despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as previous albums.
Essential tracks
- "American Girls" — 'American Girls' stands out for its catchy melody and social commentary on American culture, showcasing the band's ability to blend pop sensibilities with thoughtful lyrics.
- "Goodnight L.A." — This track captures a sense of longing and nostalgia, featuring lush instrumentation that highlights the emotional depth present throughout the album.
- "Holiday in Spain" — A reflective ballad that evokes themes of escapism and longing, it encapsulates the album's more introspective moments while featuring rich vocal performances.
Release Date
January 1, 2002
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Hard Candy 4:21
- 2 American Girls 4:32
- 3 Good Time 4:24
- 4 If I Could Give All My Love -or- Richard Manuel Is Dead 3:52
- 5 Goodnight L.A. 4:17
- 6 Butterfly in Reverse 2:48
- 7 Miami 5:01
- 8 New Frontier 3:51
- 9 Carriage 4:04
- 10 Black and Blue 3:53
- 11 Why Should You Come When I Call? 4:38
- 12 Up All Night (Frankie Miller Goes to Hollywood) 5:07
- 13 Holiday in Spain 3:50
- 14 4 White Stallions 4:21
- 15 You Ain’t Going Nowhere / Big Yellow Taxi 8:43
