11 Underrated Acoustic Songs: Acoustic Wonders

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado.

Today, I’m super excited to share something a bit different with you all – a handpicked list of 11 underrated acoustic gems. As a DJ, I’ve always been drawn to the power of a great tune, and there’s something uniquely captivating about acoustic tracks.

They strip back the layers, letting raw emotion and pure talent shine through. I’ve scoured my collection and beyond to bring you these lesser-known acoustic masterpieces.

Whether you’re a DJ looking to add depth to your set, or a music lover in search of new tunes to fall in love with, this list is for you. Let’s dive into the world of acoustic magic and discover some hidden treasures together!

Here are the underrated Acoustic songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Acoustic Songs

Underrated Acoustic songs in a list format:

1. “Heartbeats” by José González

From the album “Veneer,” released in 2003 under the Imperial Recordings label, “Heartbeats” by José González is a mesmerizing acoustic piece. This song, originally an electronic number by The Knife, was transformed by González into a hauntingly beautiful acoustic version. His delicate fingerpicking and soothing vocals give this song a new, introspective dimension. I chose it for its ability to turn simplicity into profoundness, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the power of acoustic music. The song’s minimalist approach highlights González’s skill in creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners.

2. “Naked As We Came” by Iron & Wine

Sam Beam, under his moniker Iron & Wine, brings us “Naked As We Came” from the 2004 album “Our Endless Numbered Days,” released by Sub Pop Records. This song is a gentle, melodic journey with soft, whispery vocals and a tender acoustic guitar accompaniment. It’s a poignant reflection on love and mortality, showcasing Beam’s talent for storytelling. I included this track for its poetic lyrics and the warm, comforting melody that makes it a standout in the acoustic genre. The song’s understated beauty lies in its simplicity, making it a timeless piece for quiet moments of reflection.

3. “To Be Alone With You” by Sufjan Stevens

Featured on the 2004 album “Seven Swans,” released by Sounds Familyre Records, “To Be Alone With You” by Sufjan Stevens is a heartfelt acoustic track. Stevens’ soft, emotive voice, accompanied by minimalistic guitar strumming, creates a deeply personal and spiritual experience. This song is a testament to Stevens’ ability to convey profound emotions through simple arrangements. I chose it for its intimate and raw expression of love and devotion, which is both uplifting and introspective. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a deep, personal connection to another person.

4. “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová

From the soundtrack of the film “Once” (2007), released by Canvasback/ATG, “Falling Slowly” is a duet by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová. This Oscar-winning song is a beautiful blend of Hansard’s passionate vocals and Irglová’s gentle harmonies, accompanied by a stirring acoustic guitar and piano. The song’s raw emotional power and exquisite melody make it an unforgettable piece. I included it for its ability to capture the essence of a fleeting, yet profound moment of connection between two people. Its heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody make it a standout track in the world of acoustic music.

5. “Holocene” by Bon Iver

Bon Iver’s “Holocene” from the 2011 album “Bon Iver, Bon Iver,” released by Jagjaguwar, is an acoustic masterpiece. Justin Vernon’s ethereal vocals, combined with intricate guitar work and subtle background instrumentation, create a soundscape that is both haunting and beautiful. This song is a reflection on insignificance and beauty, showcasing Vernon’s skill in crafting deeply moving and atmospheric music. I chose “Holocene” for its poetic lyrics and the way it transports listeners to a different, almost dreamlike, state of mind. It’s a song that exemplifies the power of acoustic music to evoke strong emotions and vivid imagery.

6. “Blood” by The Middle East

The Middle East, an Australian band, brings us “Blood” from their 2009 album “The Recordings of the Middle East,” released by Spunk Records. This song is a stunning blend of folk and indie elements, featuring a mix of acoustic guitar, soft percussion, and harmonious vocals. It’s a hauntingly beautiful track that builds up to a powerful cresc

endo, reflecting themes of life, death, and rebirth. I included “Blood” for its emotional depth and the way it seamlessly combines various acoustic elements to create a rich, layered sound. The song’s evocative lyrics and the band’s unique ability to tell a story through music make it a must-listen for fans of the genre.

7. “The Trapeze Swinger” by Iron & Wine

Another gem from Iron & Wine, “The Trapeze Swinger” is a track from the 2009 album “Around the Well,” released by Sub Pop Records. This song is an epic, sprawling narrative set to a backdrop of gentle acoustic guitar and hushed vocals. Sam Beam’s storytelling prowess is on full display here, weaving a tale that’s both nostalgic and poignant. I chose this song for its lyrical beauty and the way it captures the essence of memory and longing. Its length and depth make it an immersive experience, perfect for those moments when you want to lose yourself in music.

8. “Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart

From their self-titled debut album in 2011, released by Sub Pop Records, “Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart is a soul-stirring acoustic track. The song features rich harmonies, a compelling melody, and heartfelt lyrics about change and separation. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to blend folk and indie sounds into something truly special. I included this song for its emotional resonance and the way it speaks to the experience of moving on while holding onto the past. It’s a track that connects with listeners on a deeply personal level.

9. “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” by Iron & Wine

Iron & Wine’s “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” from the 2007 album “The Shepherd’s Dog,” released by Sub Pop Records, is a hauntingly beautiful song. With its intricate acoustic guitar work and Sam Beam’s distinctive vocals, the track paints a vivid picture with its poetic lyrics. The song gained widespread recognition after being featured in the film “Twilight.” I chose it for its unique blend of folk and indie elements, creating a sound that’s both timeless and contemporary. It’s a song that stays with you long after the last note has faded.

10. “Cannonball” by Damien Rice

Damien Rice’s “Cannonball” from his 2002 album “O,” released by Vector Recordings, is a powerful acoustic track. Rice’s emotive vocals and the simple yet effective guitar accompaniment create a raw and intimate listening experience. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Rice’s passionate delivery make it a standout track in his discography. I included “Cannonball” for its ability to convey deep emotions in a straightforward, unadorned manner. It’s a song that showcases the power of acoustic music to connect with listeners on a profound level.

11. “Skinny Love” by Bon Iver

Finally, “Skinny Love” by Bon Iver from the 2007 album “For Emma, Forever Ago,” released by Jagjaguwar, is a raw and emotive acoustic track. Justin Vernon’s haunting vocals and the sparse, yet powerful guitar arrangement create a sense of vulnerability and honesty. The song’s poignant lyrics about a failing relationship and the desperation that comes with it are deeply moving. I chose “Skinny Love” for its raw emotional power and the way it showcases Vernon’s ability to create deeply affecting music with minimal instrumentation. It’s a song that epitomizes the beauty and pain of acoustic music.

Fun Facts: Underrated Acoustic Songs

“Heartbeats” by José González

• Cover of an Electronic Song: Originally an electronic track by The Knife, José González’s version completely transforms it into a soothing acoustic piece, showcasing his unique interpretation skills.
• Featured in a Sony Commercial: This song gained widespread popularity after being featured in a Sony Bravia commercial, where 250,000 colored balls were bounced down the streets of San Francisco.

“Naked As We Came” by Iron & Wine

• Recorded in a Home Studio: Sam Beam, the man behind Iron & Wine, recorded this song in his home studio, giving it a raw and intimate feel that’s become a signature of his work.
• Featured in Film and TV: The song has been used in various films and TV shows, including “House M.D.,” adding to its popularity and reach beyond traditional music channels.

“To Be Alone With You” by Sufjan Stevens

• Part of a Concept Album: This song is from “Seven Swans,” an album that heavily features Christian and biblical themes, reflecting Stevens’ exploration of faith and spirituality in his music.
• Multi-Instrumental Talent: Sufjan Stevens is known for playing multiple instruments on his albums, often recording all parts himself, showcasing his diverse musical talent.

“Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová

• Oscar-Winning Song: “Falling Slowly” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008, bringing the duo international acclaim.
• Real-Life Romance: Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová’s on-screen romance in the film “Once” translated into a real-life relationship, adding a layer of authenticity to their musical collaborations.

“Holocene” by Bon Iver

• Grammy Nominations: “Holocene” was nominated for Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the 54th Grammy Awards, highlighting its critical acclaim.
• Named After a Geologic Epoch: The title “Holocene” refers to the current geological epoch, symbolizing themes of time, existence, and insignificance in the grand scheme of things.

“Blood” by The Middle East

• Disbanded Too Soon: The Middle East disbanded in 2011, just two years after the release of “Blood,” leaving fans yearning for more of their unique sound.
• Film Soundtrack Feature: “Blood” was featured in the soundtrack of “Crazy, Stupid, Love,” further popularizing the song beyond its initial indie audience.

“The Trapeze Swinger” by Iron & Wine

• A Fan Favorite: Despite its length (over nine minutes), “The Trapeze Swinger” is a fan favorite and often considered one of Iron & Wine’s best works for its lyrical depth and storytelling.

“Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart

• Band’s Formation Story: The Head and the Heart formed after the band members met at an open mic night, highlighting the organic and communal roots of their music.
• Rapid Rise to Fame: After self-releasing their album, it quickly caught the attention of Sub Pop Records, leading to widespread recognition and a re-release under the label.

“Flightless Bird, American Mouth” by Iron & Wine

• Twilight Phenomenon: The song gained a surge in popularity after being featured in the prom scene of the movie “Twilight,” introducing it to a massive audience.
• Symbolic Lyrics: The song’s lyrics are filled with symbolism and abstract imagery, typical of Sam Beam’s songwriting style, leaving much to listener interpretation.

“Cannonball” by Damien Rice

• Minimalist Recording: Damien Rice is known for his minimalist recording techniques, often using simple setups and natural acoustics, which is evident in the raw sound of “Cannonball.”
• International Success: “Cannonball” became a hit not just in Rice’s home country of Ireland but also in the UK and beyond, marking his emergence as

an international artist.

“Skinny Love” by Bon Iver

• Recorded in a Remote Cabin: Justin Vernon, the frontman of Bon Iver, recorded “Skinny Love” and the rest of the “For Emma, Forever Ago” album in a remote cabin in Wisconsin during a solitary winter, adding to the song’s raw and isolated feel.
• Viral Cover Versions: “Skinny Love” has been covered by various artists, most notably by Birdy, whose version became a hit in its own right, introducing the song to a younger audience.
• A Personal Touch: The song is said to be about a personal experience of Justin Vernon, adding a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to its lyrics and delivery.

And there you have it, folks! Eleven acoustic tracks that deserve more spotlight in your playlist. Each song holds a unique story and an emotional depth that resonates beyond the strings and vocals. Dive into these acoustic treasures and let their melodies enrich your musical journey. Keep grooving!

Thanks for reading.

TBone