It’s been many years since Conor Oberst has released a self-titled album, and fans have been anxiously anticipating this release. If you have been following every piece of work that the artist has released over the years, then this is basically what you would expect from him. His sound has evolved into a melancholy/folk/country/acoustic form, and it’s damn good.

Much like what is expected from this lyrical prodigy, every sound is bursting with imagery and thought-provoking lyrics; only this time around, everything feels a bit more personal. The fact that the album has been named after him is a great sign of self-realization, as well as an indicator than Conor has finally come to terms with himself. The album begins with “Cape Canaveral” – a very appropriate opener to an excellent album. A true display of Obersts’ spiritual side is shown in every lyric, and I couldn’t help but to tap my feet to the rhythm of the song as each word was being spilled from the speakers. There are many other songs which will hook a listener, such as “Souled Out!!!” This song may just be one of the album’s best, as it gives a new sound from the artist that is so catchy and smart, I couldn’t help but have a smile on my face due to the feeling that I can always rely on Connor to give me something intellectual to listen to. There’s a nice variety of sound to the disc as well; it ranges anywhere from a smooth “earthy” tone, to a folky hard-rock jam that sucks you right into its atmosphere.

Conor Oberst is probably the least maudlin of all his material that has ever been released. If you are a fan of the song writer, then you obviously don’t need the review to persuade you to get the album, and I’m pleased to say that nothing here will leave you disappointed. But if you are a new listener and need something smart, catchy, and different, then you owe it to yourself to add Conor Oberst to your collection.