About this album
Where they were
Released on October 1, 2002, 'Everybody Makes Mistakes' is Shearwater's debut album, marking their transition from a side project of Okkervil River to a standalone band. At this point, the group was still establishing its identity, experimenting with sound and thematic depth that would become hallmarks of their later work.
Why it matters
The album received positive critical reception, helping Shearwater gain traction in the indie folk scene. It laid the groundwork for their subsequent releases, drawing attention for its lyrical sophistication and emotional resonance, which would influence a wave of folk-inspired indie artists in the years that followed.
Essential tracks
- "Room for Mistakes" — This track encapsulates the album's theme of vulnerability and acceptance, featuring haunting vocals over delicate instrumentation that highlights the band's early sound.
- "The Ice Covered Everything" — With its evocative imagery and an atmospheric arrangement, this song exemplifies the poignant storytelling that characterizes Shearwater's music.
- "Mistakes" — Short and impactful, this track directly addresses the album's overarching theme while showcasing Shearwater's ability to convey profound emotion in concise form.
Release Date
October 1, 2002
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 An Accident 2:31
- 2 Well, Benjamin 3:15
- 3 Soon 2:33
- 4 Room for Mistakes 4:30
- 5 12:09 3:25
- 6 Mistakes 2:17
- 7 The Ice Covered Everything 3:20
- 8 You Took Your Mistakes Too Hard 1:48
- 9 Wreck 3:13
- 10 Safeway 3:40
- 11 All the Black Days 1 1:22
- 12 All the Black Days 2 4:23
