Seven Swans stands out in Stevens’ discography as a record he did not produce himself, instead collaborating with Daniel Smith, the leader of the folk collective Danielson Famile, to record the songs in Clarksboro, New Jersey. Smith also contributed backing vocals, drums, and keyboard on some of the tracks.
Stevens’ most recent album, Javelin, released last October, includes singles like “Will Anybody Ever Love Me?” and “So You Are Tired.” The album was dedicated to Stevens’ late partner, Evans Richardson IV, who passed away in April 2023. Stevens described Richardson as a remarkable person filled with life, love, and exceptional qualities.
After undergoing intensive treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome last year, Stevens has been providing regular updates on his condition and treatment on his Tumblr page. Additionally, the dance-musical Illinoise, based on Stevens’ 2005 album Illinois and choreographed by Justin Peck, received several Tony Award nominations including Best Musical. On May 31, Nonesuch will digitally release the original cast recording of Illinoise.
To find out more about Javelin ranking at No. 6 on “The 50 Best Albums of 2023” and read about “Sufjan Stevens Is at His Intimate and Uplifting Best on Javelin,” click the links.
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Seven Swans (Deluxe Edition):
01 All the Trees of the Field Will Clap Their Hands
02 The Dress Looks Nice on You
03 In the Devil’s Territory
04 To Be Alone with You
05 Abraham
06 Sister
07 Size Too Small
08 We Won’t Need Legs to Stand
09 A Good Man Is Hard to Find
10 He Woke Me Up Again
11 Seven Swans
12 The Transfiguration
13 I Went Dancing With My Sister (Bonus Track)
14 Waste of What Your Kids Won’t Have (Bonus Track)
