I just moved back to Illinois, where I was raised, and I thought I’d start my time here with Sufjan Stevens incredible concept album, which refers to places throughout the state. My favorite songs on here are “Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, Illinois,” “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.,” and “Chicago.” The whole album is a celebration of the Midwest, and it diverges from other genres pretty significantly.

Stevens’ vocals are softing and haunting, there is plenty of usage of tambourine, and the whole album brings about an atmosphere of comfort and care.

I first heard this album when I was a university student, and I had a hard time getting into it. Now that I’m 30, I have a much deeper appreciation for what he does here, and I’d urge anyone else to listen through.