Joanna Newsom’s Ys: Discover the Enchanting World of This Hidden Gem Album You’ve Been Missing

If you’ve ever wished you could stumble upon a magical, hidden world filled with whimsical stories and dreamy sounds, you’re in luck. Joanna Newsom’s album Ys is exactly that: an enchanting musical adventure you’ve probably never heard of—but totally should! While it may not be mainstream, this hidden gem is perfect for when you’re ready to discover something that feels like stepping into a secret, fairytale-like universe. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Who is Joanna Newsom?

Joanna Newsom might not be a name you recognize yet, but trust us, she’s an indie music queen in her own right. Imagine a singer, songwriter, and harpist (yes, harpist—how cool is that?) all wrapped into one, and you’ve got Joanna. Her music is often labeled as folk but before you roll your eyes and think of your grandpa’s record collection—wait. Just because she’s considered a folk artist doesn’t mean she has anything in common with geezers like Joni Mitchell or that sometimes-creepy guy Bob Dylan. Joanna Newsom’s music is fresh, whimsical, and completely unique.

Her voice? Quirky, high-pitched, and full of emotion. Her lyrics? Like reading the most poetic storybook ever. And with her album Ys, she took things to a whole new level by teaming up with a legendary composer to create something that feels like stepping into a dreamy soundtrack. So, if you’re looking for something different—and way more magical than anything on the charts—Joanna Newsom is about to be your new fave.

What Makes Ys Special?

Now, let’s talk about Ys, the album you never knew you needed. First off, this is not your average playlist of quick-hit bangers. Nope, Ys is an experience. Each of the five songs on this album takes you on a journey, like a musical adventure filled with storytelling, emotions, and rich orchestral sounds that make you feel like you’ve entered another world.

Every song on Ys is long and intricate, but don’t let that scare you! It’s like watching a really good movie—you get pulled into the story and don’t want it to end. Joanna weaves fairytale-like lyrics with deep emotions, so each track feels like its own little universe. Whether she’s singing about relationships, nature, or mythical characters, there’s something captivating in every note. It’s basically an album that turns music into magic.

Song Highlights You’ll Love

Now, let’s break down a few songs that’ll get you hooked:

Emily

This epic opener feels like a love letter to Joanna’s sister but with some beautiful celestial imagery thrown in. It’s personal and poetic—perfect for a late-night listen when you’re feeling all the feels.

Monkey & Bear

Get ready for a fable-like story about a bear and a monkey trying to escape their life of captivity. It’s like a dark fairytale with a catchy twist, and if you love animated movies with deeper meanings (hint: Animal allegories), this one’s for you.

Sawdust & Diamonds

This one is an emotional rollercoaster. It’s just Joanna and her harp, pouring her heart out in a way that feels both raw and magical. You’ll feel like you’re watching someone create art right in front of your eyes (or ears, in this case).

Only Skin

Okay, this track is long—like, really long. But it’s filled with so many twists, turns, and breathtaking moments that it’s totally worth the journey. It’s basically the fantasy novel of songs, and you’ll get lost in its beauty.

Cosmia

This song closes out the album in a dreamy, haunting way. It’s one of those tracks that sticks with you long after the last note fades.

Why Ys is the Perfect Album for When You Need to Escape

Feeling overwhelmed by life, school, or social media? Ys is like a mini-vacation for your mind. Joanna’s voice and the lush, orchestral arrangements make you feel like you’ve stepped into a world far away from the everyday hustle. Whether you’re doing homework, taking a break, or just daydreaming about magical places, Ys is the perfect soundtrack to transport you to a world where you can forget about everything and just be.

Plus, it’s a nice break from the short, snappy songs that fill our playlists. Sometimes, it’s nice to just *sit* with a piece of music and let it take you on a journey—and *Ys* does just that.

How to Enjoy *Ys* Without Feeling Overwhelmed

If the idea of five long, intricate songs feels a little intimidating, don’t stress! Here’s a tip: listen in parts. You don’t have to sit down and absorb the entire album in one go. Start with a single track—maybe *Emily* or *Monkey & Bear*—and just let it play while you’re relaxing. You can always come back to the rest later when you’re ready for more.

It’s also totally okay if you don’t “get” everything right away. The beauty of *Ys* is that it reveals itself in layers. The more you listen, the more you’ll discover in the lyrics and melodies. So take your time, and don’t worry if it feels a bit different from your usual music—it’s all part of the magic.

A Few Fun Facts About Ys That Will Make You Love It More

Want to know something cool? The album’s orchestral arrangements were done by Van Dyke Parks, a legendary composer who’s worked with some of the biggest names in music. The cover art? It’s as dreamy and detailed as the music itself, with a fairytale-like illustration that captures the album’s vibe perfectly.

And Joanna’s voice? It’s quirky, and some might even call it odd, but that’s exactly what makes her stand out from the crowd. She’s not afraid to be different—and that’s why we love her.

Bottom Line: Why Ys Deserves a Spot on Your Playlist

So, why give Ys a shot? Because it’s like discovering a hidden world full of magic, emotion, and beauty—all wrapped up in a musical package. It might take a little time to get into, but once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever missed this hidden gem. Next time it’s raining outside or you’re in need of some chill vibes, put on Ys and let Joanna Newsom take you somewhere truly special. You might just find your new favorite album for those quiet, dreamy nights.