About this album
Sound:
"Haunting harmonies weave through spare melodies, capturing the raw emotional weight of love and loss."
Where they were
Released on January 1, 2011, 'Barton Hollow' marked The Civil Wars' debut album, following their formation in 2008. At this point in their career, they were gaining traction in the alternative country scene, blending folk and Americana influences with rich vocal interplay.
Why it matters
'Barton Hollow' received critical acclaim, earning a Grammy Award for Best Folk Album in 2012 and charting at number 12 on the Billboard 200. Its success helped elevate the duo within the indie music landscape, influencing a resurgence of interest in acoustic-driven singer-songwriter styles.
Essential tracks
- "Poison & Wine" — This track showcases the duo's intricate harmonies and poignant lyrics about love's complexities, making it a fan favorite.
- "Barton Hollow" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of longing and heartache, featuring a haunting melody that lingers after listening.
- "I've Got This Friend" — With its playful yet introspective narrative, this song highlights the duo's ability to blend storytelling with captivating melodies.
Release Date
January 1, 2011
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 20 Years 3:01
- 2 I’ve Got This Friend 3:23
- 3 C’est la mort 2:29
- 4 To Whom It May Concern 3:31
- 5 Poison & Wine 3:39
- 6 My Father’s Father 3:20
- 7 Barton Hollow 3:25
- 8 The Violet Hour 3:25
- 9 Girl With the Red Balloon 3:49
- 10 Falling 3:58
- 11 Forget Me Not 2:56
- 12 Birds of a Feather 3:09
- 13 Billie Jean (live) 4:08
- 14 I Want You Back 3:15
- 15 Dance Me to the End of Love 3:05
- 16 You Are My Sunshine 3:09
- 17 Goodbye Girl (acoustic) 3:59
- 18 Marionette (demo) 3:00