A Brief History... cover

A Brief History...

The Waifs · 2004

140 min · 32 tracks · folk rock

A rich tapestry of folk rock melodies intertwined with heartfelt storytelling and harmonized vocals, evoking a sense of nostalgic wanderlust.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Lighthouse — Opening the album with a haunting melody, Lighthouse sets an introspective tone that reflects the themes of longing and hope pervasive throughout the record.
  • →
    London Still — This track captures a sense of dislocation through its vivid imagery and emotive lyrics, highlighting the band's ability to weave personal narratives into broader social commentary.
  • →
    Fisherman's Daughter — With its intricate guitar work and poignant storytelling, this song embodies the essence of The Waifs’ style, blending personal history with universal themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • warm harmonies for cozy evenings
  • nostalgic storytelling for reflection
  • patient unfolding of narratives
  • introspective moments during solitude
  • inviting atmosphere for casual gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer instant gratification over depth

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2004, A Brief History... marked The Waifs' third studio album and followed their successful sophomore effort, Up All Night. At this point in their career, they had begun to solidify their reputation as prominent figures in the Australian folk rock scene, having gained significant critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Stylistic neighbors
The Civil Wars· Iron & Wine· The Lumineers

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Lighthouse 4:17
  • 2 London Still 4:29
  • 3 Take It In 3:40
  • 4 Love Serenade 3:11
  • 5 The Waitress 2:37
  • 6 Fisherman's Daughter 6:35
  • 7 Papa 2:58
  • 8 Crazy Train 8:02
  • 9 Brain Damage 4:59
  • 10 Don't Think Twice, It's Alright 3:52
  • 11 Lies 4:43
  • 12 Haircut 4:23
  • 13 The River 4:02
  • 14 Gillian 4:41
  • 15 A Brief History 5:03
  • 16 Bridal Train (studio version) 4:19

Disc 2

  • 1 Willow Tree 4:06
  • 2 When I Die (introduction) 0:40
  • 3 When I Die 4:28
  • 4 Sunflower Man 4:11
  • 5 Flesh and Blood 5:16
  • 6 Highway One 5:17
  • 7 Bridal Train (introduction) 0:35
  • 8 Bridal Train 4:20
  • 9 Since I've Been Around 4:44
  • 10 Here If You Want 3:53
  • 11 Billy Jones 4:15
  • 12 Company 4:16
  • 13 Spotlight 5:46
  • 14 Shelter Me 3:12
  • 15 Shiny Apple 3:16
  • 16 Crazy / Circles 9:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata