State Songs
State Songs
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State Songs

State Songs is a concept album released by John Linnell in 1999. It was his third solo project and first full solo album. It consists of tracks that are named after, and are at least partially inspired by, 15 of the 50 U.S. states. The album is surrealist in nature. The album was received positive reviews from critics and peaked No. 18 on the CMJ 200 chart.

"Montana" was released as the single for the album. It was pressed by Erika Records. The single also featured the non-album track "Louisiana" as the B-side. Originally, "South Carolina" was the album's single, but the track was too long for the grooves to fit in the small area between the labels and the edges of the United States.

State Songs originally existed as a short EP that John Linnell released through the Hello Recording Club. The carousel organ is featured in four tracks. Linnell has stated that the organ was used to add variety among the standard human musicians. Two different band organs are featured on the album. The paper rolls for the organ were cut by Bob Stuhmer and adjusted by Linnell. Linnell used a Gretsch accordion in recording the album.

State Songs received positive reviews from critics. Matthew Springer, writing for AllMusic, praised the album's surrealism and eclecticism. Music critic Robert Christgau cited "The Songs of the 50 States" and "New Hampshire" as highlights from the album.

The album spent four weeks on the CMJ 200 chart, peaking at No. 18.

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