What makes 11 by The Smithereens notable?

'11' features the hit single 'A Girl Like You,' which reached the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying the band's place in the alternative rock scene of the late '80s. Additionally, it received positive reviews from critics who praised its songwriting and production, contributing to its lasting influence on subsequent power pop bands. Released as The Smithereens' third studio album, '11' followed their breakthrough record 'Especially for You' and continued to build on their reputation for catchy hooks and introspective lyrics. By this point in their career, they had established a dedicated fan base and were navigating the complexities of maintaining commercial success while staying true to their artistic vision.

11 works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, nostalgic reflections on love and earworm choruses for road trips.

How many songs are on 11?

11 has 10 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

11

The Smithereens · 1989

34 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Jangly guitars and earnest vocals intertwine in a vibrant showcase of melodic alternative rock from the late '80s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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A Girl Like You — This track stands out with its infectious melody and romantic yearning, becoming a defining hit that showcases the band's knack for catchy, heartfelt songs.
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Room Without a View — With its poignant lyrics about isolation and longing, this song captures the emotional depth present throughout the album while featuring compelling guitar work.
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Blues Before and After — The blend of upbeat rhythms with reflective lyrics makes this track a significant moment on the album, highlighting the band's ability to balance joy and melancholy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and varied tempos but lacks a cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature jangly guitar riffs that establish a bright, upbeat tone, while the fourth track introduces a slower tempo.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic quality.
The album closes with two tracks that shift to more introspective themes and arrangements, creating a contrast with the earlier material.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
nostalgic reflections on love
earworm choruses for road trips
light-hearted fun with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced excitement
seek deep, complex narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified the band's reputation with hit single 'A Girl Like You' and strong alternative rock sound.
Career context: Released as The Smithereens' third studio album, '11' followed their breakthrough record 'Especially for You' and continued to build on their reputation for catchy hooks and introspective lyrics. By this point in their career, they had established a dedicated fan base and were navigating the complexities of maintaining commercial success while staying true to their artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors: Soul Asylum· Big Star· R.E.M.