Crucial Track for June 2, 2025

"Chicago" by Sufjan Stevens

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Describe music that reminds you of a specific place you've traveled.

How on the nose can we get?

When my best friend (now wife) and I were approaching the Chicago city limits after nearly 30 hours in a car on our drive back from Banff, Sufjan Stevens emerged on the road trip playlist I had put together. There are many songs I associate with that entire journey, but few moments remain as remarkable as when "Chicago" welcomed us home. Any time I hear that song now, I'm back in the passenger seat of that car. Not quite delirious, but certainly punchy. Not ready to be home, but appreciating the closure nevertheless.