A Thousand Leaves
Sonic Youth · 1998
74 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · indie rock · experimental rock
A sprawling exploration of texture and melody, merging experimental noise with contemplative songwriting.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- dynamic exploration of soundscapes wave-like pacing with contrasts contemplative moments for reflection
- Context
- By 1998, Sonic Youth was transitioning from their late '80s and early '90s critical acclaim into a more experimental phase. 'A Thousand Leaves' marked their first release after their major label tenure, showcasing a distinct shift towards abstract soundscapes while still retaining their punk roots.
- If you like
- alternative rock, indie rock, experimental rock
A Thousand Leaves is an album by Sonic Youth, released in 1998. A sprawling exploration of texture and melody, merging experimental noise with contemplative songwriting. 'A Thousand Leaves' was well-received by critics, appearing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Sonic Youth's role as pioneers in the alternative and indie rock scenes. The album's unconventional structure and lyrical depth influenced a wave of post-rock artists in the years that followed. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does A Thousand Leaves sound like?
A sprawling exploration of texture and melody, merging experimental noise with contemplative songwriting. Rooted in alternative rock and indie rock.
What makes A Thousand Leaves by Sonic Youth notable?
'A Thousand Leaves' was well-received by critics, appearing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Sonic Youth's role as pioneers in the alternative and indie rock scenes. The album's unconventional structure and lyrical depth influenced a wave of post-rock artists in the years that followed. By 1998, Sonic Youth was transitioning from their late '80s and early '90s critical acclaim into a more experimental phase. 'A Thousand Leaves' marked their first release after their major label tenure, showcasing a distinct shift towards abstract soundscapes while still retaining their punk roots.
Who is A Thousand Leaves for?
A Thousand Leaves works well if you're into dynamic exploration of soundscapes, wave-like pacing with contrasts and contemplative moments for reflection.
How many songs are on A Thousand Leaves?
A Thousand Leaves has 11 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Contre le sexisme 3:55
- 2 Sunday 4:52
- 3 Female Mechanic Now on Duty Standout 7:43
- 4 Wildflower Soul 9:04
- 5 Hoarfrost 5:01
- 6 French Tickler 4:52
- 7 Hits of Sunshine (For Allen Ginsberg) Standout 11:05
- 8 Karen Koltrane Standout 9:20
- 9 The Ineffable Me 5:21
- 10 Snare, Girl 6:38
- 11 Heather Angel 6:09
Release Date
March 12, 1998
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
74 min 4 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
