About this album

Sound: "Intimate storytelling unfolds over gentle melodies and acoustic arrangements, capturing a reflective and vulnerable spirit."

Where they were

'Ashes & Fire' is Ryan Adams' eleventh studio album, released after a tumultuous period marked by personal struggles and a hiatus from music. Following the 2009 release of 'Cardinology', this album represents his return to a more stripped-back sound, emphasizing lyrical depth and emotional honesty.

Why it matters

'Ashes & Fire' was well-received by critics, earning a place on several year-end lists, and it marked Adams' first album since 2005 to reach the Billboard 200 chart's top 10. The album's introspective nature resonated with audiences, solidifying his reputation as a significant figure in contemporary Americana and alt-country music.

Essential tracks

  • "Lucky Now" โ€” This track showcases Adams' ability to blend nostalgia with hope, featuring poignant lyrics that reflect on past relationships and the passage of time.
  • "Come Home" โ€” A standout ballad that encapsulates longing and desire, 'Come Home' features lush instrumentation that complements its heartfelt message.
  • "Chains of Love" โ€” 'Chains of Love' captures the essence of vulnerability and emotional complexity, offering a musical exploration of love's constraints through its haunting melody.

Release Date

October 10, 2011

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Dirty Rain 4:22
  2. 2 Ashes & Fire 3:49
  3. 3 Come Home 4:53
  4. 4 Rocks 3:01
  5. 5 Do I Wait 3:58
  6. 6 Chains of Love 2:26
  7. 7 Invisible Riverside 4:48
  8. 8 Save Me 4:22
  9. 9 Kindness 4:33
  10. 10 Lucky Now 2:56
  11. 11 I Love You but I Donโ€™t Know What to Say 4:10