Sufjan Stevens ambitious project of recording an album for all 50 states is almost to weird to take seriously. Is he really going to do it, or is it all tongue-in-cheek? Well, Steven’s second state themed album, Illinoise, suggests that Sufjan just might do it. Helped by publicity over the recall of the album due to an unauthorized Superman image on the cover, Illinoise seems to be receiving good reviews. Steven’s first state album, Michigan, plays like a photo album of memories and sketches of the state where Sufjan was born. Not only is Illinoise a big commitment by Stevens, but it also takes a commitment by anyone patient enough to sit through all 22 tracks. Nevertheless, the diligent will be rewarded. Easily as strong as Michigan, Illinoise has plenty of wit, honesty, and stories to stand on its own as a strong album. With two states down, Stevens still has my attention as an artist to watch. We will have to see if my enthusiasm can hold up after a few more states, though.

It is going to be hard to find a review of The Bravery’s self-titleed album that doesn’t mention The Killers. Clone wars are nothing new in music, so you either accept the inevitable comparisons, or begin the hopeless quest for the first band that sounds like nothing else. Still, why would anyone want to listen to an imitation of The Strokes, Interpol, Scissor Sisters, or Franz Ferdinand? Maybe because they are more than just an imitation. Their songs are catchy, and I would be surprised if The Bravery avoids the radio overplay that The Killers have enjoyed. They won’t reinvent modern music, but they will fill the gap while we wait for the next big thing.