Sufjan Stevens - ‘Illinois' + Sidecar
Ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces cognac, 3/4 ounce Cointreau, 3/4 ounce lemon juice
Mixing Instructions: Shake well with ice then strain into a chilled cocktail glass that has had its outside rim rubbed with lemon juice and dipped in sugar.
Notes: Often referred to as Come On Feel the Illinoise, Sufjan Stevens second concept album based on a state is one of the most complete and expertly executed pieces of art that you could possible add to your record collection. I couldn’t possibly say enough about how beautiful and complete this album plays through, or how well Sufjan sticks to the theme he set out to with this album, but it’s so well done that it’s possible you’ve heard it and told somebody you liked it without even realizing fully what you heard. Whether the songs grab you right away (eventually, they will slay you), just listening and cataloging the references to the state of Illinois in each song is an exercise in and of itself. Put the album on and find one of the many many aspects of this album to love, because the album isn’t missing anything—in this case it’s you.