Big Thief Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Diving into the rich and evocative discography of Big Thief is always a rewarding journey.
Their music, often a tapestry of raw emotion and poetic storytelling, resonates deeply with listeners.
Today, we're exploring Big Thief albums ranked, primarily through the lens of dedicated fan sentiment. It's a fascinating way to see which records have truly captured hearts.
Later, we'll also glance at how these cherished albums stack up based on current popularity data. Let's explore what many consider the best Big Thief albums!
Ranking Big Thief's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Masterpiece (2016)
Big Thief's debut album, Masterpiece, arrived in 2016.
Released via Saddle Creek Records, it immediately announced a significant new voice in indie music.
The album was recorded in July 2015 near Lake Champlain in Essex, New York.
Critics praised its dynamic shifts, moving from lo-fi acoustic moments to full-bodied rock hooks.
Key tracks:
- Velvet Ring
- Paul
Securing the top spot in our fan-driven ranking, Masterpiece clearly holds a special, foundational significance for many Big Thief listeners.
Its immediate emotional impact and unforgettable melodies likely cemented its cherished status right from the start.
2. Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You (2022)
Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You is Big Thief's fifth studio album.
This ambitious double album was released in 2022 through 4AD.
It features twenty songs, recorded across five months in various locations throughout the United States.
The album, produced by drummer James Krivchenia, received universal acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.
Key tracks:
- Simulation Swarm
- Change
It's hardly surprising that Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You ranks so incredibly high with fans.
The sheer breadth and adventurous spirit of this sprawling work resonated deeply. Many celebrate its boundless creativity and deeply affecting moments.
3. Capacity (2017)
Capacity is Big Thief's celebrated second album. It was released in 2017.
The album garnered universal acclaim, further building on the success of their debut.
It's widely recognized for its profound intimacy and Adrianne Lenker's compelling songwriting.
The track "Mary" became a particular standout from this record, cherished by many listeners.
Key tracks:
- Mythological Beauty
- Shark Smile
Capacity firmly solidifies its place within the top tier of fan favorites.
Its vulnerable lyricism and a collection of truly memorable songs make it an enduring and cherished listen. This album powerfully demonstrated the band's growing artistic depth.
4. Two Hands (2019)
Two Hands, Big Thief's fourth studio album, arrived in October 2019.
It was released through 4AD, just five months after their third album, U.F.O.F.
Described as the "earth twin" to its predecessor, Two Hands offers a distinctly rawer, more grounded sound.
The songs were notably recorded live, featuring minimal overdubs, capturing an immediate energy.
Key tracks:
- Not
- Forgotten Eyes
The potent, direct energy of Two Hands clearly earns it strong and lasting appreciation from the fanbase.
Listeners frequently highlight its raw power and the stark, lyrical impact. This album showcases a different, yet equally compelling, facet of Big Thief's artistry.
5. U.F.O.F. (2019)
U.F.O.F. marked Big Thief's third studio album. It was also their first release with 4AD in May 2019.
The album delves into themes of the unknown, the mystical, and the unexplained.
It is often characterized by a more atmospheric and ethereal sound compared to their earlier work.
This critically acclaimed record earned the band a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.
Key tracks:
- Cattails
- UFOF
While U.F.O.F. completes our primary fan ranking, its unique, dreamy qualities are undeniably beloved by many.
Its subtle beauty and deeply introspective nature offer a distinct and immersive experience within the Big Thief discography. Fans who connect with its spacious, atmospheric folk find it exceptionally rewarding.
Big Thief albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Big Thief's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You | 2022 |
| 2 | Masterpiece | 2016 |
| 3 | Two Hands | 2019 |
| 4 | Capacity | 2017 |
| 5 | U.F.O.F. | 2019 |
Quick FAQs about Big Thief's albums
Q: What is special about the album cover of Big Thief's Masterpiece?
A: The cover of Masterpiece features a childhood photograph of Adrianne Lenker's mother. She is depicted playing with a toy dinosaur.
Q: How was the sound of Masterpiece described by critics?
A: Critics noted Masterpiece for its dynamic sound. It compellingly shifts between lo-fi acoustic textures and noisy, tuneful rock hooks.
So, there you have it – a deep dive into Big Thief albums ranked.
We've journeyed through fan-cherished favorites and also considered current engagement data.
Ultimately, the "best" Big Thief album is a deeply personal choice. It's often tied to the moments and feelings their music soundtracks in our own lives.
Each record is a unique chapter in their evolving story. What does your personal ranking of Big Thief's albums look like? Which one claims the top spot for you, and what makes it so special?