Futures has always had my favorite lyrics from them, but Chase was close. Invented had some songs that were among Jim's best writing and some that I think are among his weakest. The new one might be his best ever though.
Not sure which one I think has the best lyrics, but it's between Clarity, Futures and Invented. I think those depict three different and successful approaches. Clarity is akin to a open book, with "Table For Glasses" showcasing the deepest dive on that minimalism/abstractionism take. We're left with bones of feelings, impressions and as a result the songs become incredibly expansive, readable from multiple angles. Futures tries the personal route. It feels like a bunch of late night diary notes on coming-of-age and all that goes along with it: broken relationships, drugs, graduating and getting a job... Essentially, the angst of getting older and the consequent urge to do/live/create something big and powerful. Invented, as it's well documented, represents an experiment on character writing. While each song has its own closed narrative, I've always thought they are all connected (in a non-linear way) to tell the romance of a couple from the perspective of both individuals. That ended up giving it a certain "literary" vibe, Jim's metaphors were never this beautiful and complex...
Damage is my favorite lyrically, I don't really know what my ranking is outside of that. I don't really listen to this band for the lyrics per se, although I don't think they're a weak point whatsoever.
I'm the worst person to break down lyrical quality. I tend to latch onto a melody first, then let the lyrics grow on me. But I will say that Futures hit me more lyrically than any other album of theirs. Whether it was just a line or two that caught my attention or something that resonated with me, Futures still holds the lead.
I was bored in traffic and reading the lyric booklet and they thank her, haha. 12 years of owning that album and I didn't know either!
Huh. I recently realized what is going on lyrically in bridge of "A Praise Chorus" (with all the references), and I've been listening to BA like since I was a kid.
Aghhhhgghhhh I was gonna buy tickets to the Ut date... had tickets in my cart..... decided to wait till the next day.... sold out. I hate my life
There's now an archive of their recent Berlin show. Includes a pretty good quality recording of You Are Free. The guitar reminds me of "The Most Beautiful Things" from Bleed American in some parts. Jimmy Eat World Live in Berlin Now Available to Download | Jimmy Eat World Online
You Are Free is destined to be a JEW classic imo. Pretty Grids and Pass The Baby are also stellar, stellar JEW songs. This album gets better with every listen. Truly a sensational album from the best band.
For me, I think what's making the anticipation grow for this album is the fact that it comes out in the fall like Futures did. I also think they will release Are You Free before the album drops.