Hear Sufjan Stevens’ Gorgeous New Song “Should Have Known Better”

March 11th, 2015

Nina Corcoran

On March 31, Sufjan Stevens will release his brand new folk album, Carrie & Lowell, via Asthmatic Kitty. Pre-orders are ongoing in a variety of formats here. In anticipation of the release, he’s sharing another new single: “Should Have Known Better.”

As the second track on his album, “Should Have Known Better” acts as an introductory phrase to what kind of folk we can expect in his triumphant return. Bedroom keys eventually hop in as well as layered melodies and various harmonies with backing vocals. Stevens expertly layers it all to turn struggles into a beautiful reflection. While “No Shade In The Shadow of the Cross” was a hushed, bedtime-style number that’s half the length, “Should Have Known Better” cuts deep with regret on love, grief, and the acceptance of time passing. The indie rock folk icon is back.

Give it a listen below: