Best Songwriters This Millenium
 

Alright 5 long years have gone by in this dreaded '2000' world. It seems like critics are SEARCHING for a new Dylan, just assuming he is one of the best songwriters ever. I've heard things about Bright Eyes (Coner Oberst), Stephen Fretwell, & even the Shins having terrific lyrics, but NONE of these speak "Dylan" to me.

So I turn to you fellows. In the past 5 years, who do you think has been at the top of their songwriting? Feel free to post particular songs which you feel have some pretty creative lyrics.

I think dylan's overrated.

Matt Embree-Rx Bandits

Dustin Kensrue-Thrice

I know its going to be expected, but Jack White writes lyrics I'd have killed to thought up.

I was also going with Jack White when I read the first post, good call. I love The White Stripes. As for other great songwriters... of the last five years, heh... well as much as I hate the Bright Eyes bandwagon, I think those lyrics are just beautiful sometimes. I think Postal Service lyrics are pretty wonderful... uh, but then we miss out on the less well known bands... well, Alkaline Trio has some pretty excellent lyrics. Great word play... although I think that the actual music is what makes those songs work. Sufjan Stevens has some great lyrics, I don't like his music, but his lyrics are great, and lets not forget the boys in The Decemberists... if you haven't listened to them, take the time.

But overall, Jack White.

Obviously the dude from The Bloodhound Gang :pimp:

Geoff Rickly-Thursday
best lyricist ever
(except for springsteen)

I'm not sure how you can say Dylan is overrated, you must have been born in the 80s...

I've been listening to Dylan since 1965 and he continues to reinvent himself and find ways to stay on top of his game. I can see how some 20-year-old can crap on history, but if you were alive back then, you would realize the impact that Dylan has always had on music.

You're talking to the wrong guy about Dylan being overrated, you must have missed my SN (Black Jack Davey).

Big3: I definitely agree with you on Jack White, I've seen the Stripes 5 times now, and I've seen Jack do 5 Dylan covers, including Black Jack Davey. Amazing experience.

Everyone orgasms over his lyrics, they're good but not the amazing genius writing everyone makes them out to be.

Second that, he's very talented.

Trey Anastasio