The Best Americana of 2007

By Andrew Gilstrap

If 2007 didn't invite any gripping controversies, it was certainly filled with competitive comparisons -- between young and old, past and present, and among splintered factions -- and both surprising hits and disappointing misses. All in all, a dynamic and at times resurgent year for the broad scope of Americana. [18 December 2007]

Part 5: Public Enemy to Dixie Chicks (1989-2006)

By PopMatters Staff

The brave, early activists of the US AIDS movement knew that Silence = Death. Throughout history it's "Put up", we're told, "Shut up", we're threatened. Praise to those who set their protest to song and act up! [20 July 2007]

Bright Eyes: In Defense of Preciousness

By Sarah Feldman

Despite all the self-absorption, and directly in spite of criticisms about the brittle timber of Conor Oberst's much commented on voice, Feldman lays her love for Bright Eyes out in public to defend the mysterious power of the hope that slips through the cracks in Bright Eyes' usually gloomy demeanor. [20 February 2007]

Bright Eyes: Motion Sickness: Live Recordings

By Dan Raper

This collection of live recordings from Oberst's 2005 tour provides the link between his previously unhinged emotion and his new, more relaxed country persona. [13 December 2007]

Bright Eyes: Four Winds

By Stephanie Butler

“Restrained” is a word not often seen in Bright Eyes reviews, but it’s the best way to describe this new EP by Conor Oberst and friends. [24 April 2007]

Bright Eyes: Cassadaga

By Michael Keefe

Conor Oberst has (mostly) left his indulgences behind, settling down to create an American indie rock album of substance, maturity, and passion. This is the Bright Eyes we've been waiting for. [11 April 2007]

Bright Eyes: Noise Floor (Rarities: 1998 – 2005)

By Dave Heaton

Rewarding hodge-podge of treasure and trash continues the journey of Bright Eyes. [20 October 2006]

Bright Eyes: I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning / Digital Ash in a Digital Urn

By Michael Pucci

Together, though, they should elevate Oberst, for better or worse, into the big leagues of American songwriters. [9 February 2005]

Bright Eyes

By Tim Stelloh

The guy who was once labeled an extremely talented -- though a tad simplistic - is now a troubadour of depth and complexity. [1 February 2005]

Bright Eyes

By Cori Taratoot

Bright Eyes: Fevers and Mirrors

By Erin Hucke

Bright Eyes: Every Day and Every Night

By Peter Solderitsch