It is a constant source of confusion and frustration to me that Wilco is not one of the biggest bands in the world. Their albums are amazing, and they just keep getting more amazing. Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is often cited as their best, but quite frankly, A Ghost is Born and Wilco (The Album) are both strong contendors for the best album released in the past decade. Jeff Tweedy is engaging, the entire band is made up of unbelievable, charming, and wonderful musicians. They tour almost continuoulsy, their tickets are affordable, and they put on amazing shows that never disappoint. I’ve seen them 10 times since 2004, and every show is as good, or better, than the one before it. They love and appreciate their fans. For me, they’re pretty much the embodiement of pure joy.
And yet, most people have no idea who they are. I don’t want Wilco to become so big I can no longer afford to see them, or anything like that, but I hear what passes for music these days and then I think about a song like I Am Trying to Break Your Heart or Muzzle of Bees or I’ll Fight and I’m sad because I feel like the world is missing out.