What makes A Certain Trigger by Maxïmo Park notable?

The album received critical acclaim upon release, highlighted by its ranking in NME's top albums of 2005. It also peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying Maxïmo Park's status as key players in the post-punk revival movement. A Certain Trigger is Maxïmo Park's debut album, released in 2005. At this point, the band was emerging from the burgeoning UK indie scene, quickly establishing themselves with their distinctive sound. The album marked their entry into the mainstream, following a series of successful live performances and a growing fanbase.

Who is A Certain Trigger for?

A Certain Trigger works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, short, punchy tracks and engaging in-order listening.

How many songs are on A Certain Trigger?

A Certain Trigger has 13 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

A Certain Trigger

Maxïmo Park · 2005

39 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

Energetic riffs and sharp lyrics intertwine, creating a vibrant tapestry of post-punk revival that captures youthful restlessness.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Apply Some Pressure — This track features an infectious chorus and sharp lyrical commentary on societal expectations, encapsulating the band's energetic approach and thematic concerns.
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Going Missing — With its poignant exploration of disconnection and longing, this track showcases the band's ability to blend upbeat melodies with introspective lyrics.
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The Coast Is Always Changing — The song's rhythmic drive and vivid imagery effectively convey a sense of transient emotions, reflecting the album's overarching themes of youth and change.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases energetic songwriting and sharp lyrics, establishing a strong debut for the band.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a high energy level with driving guitar riffs and upbeat tempos, while the sixth track introduces a slower, more reflective tone.
Lyrics often feature rapid-fire delivery, with verses that shift quickly between themes of love and existential musings.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

dynamic emotional journeys
short, punchy tracks
engaging in-order listening
wave-like pacing fluctuations

Where this album fits

Career context: A Certain Trigger is Maxïmo Park's debut album, released in 2005. At this point, the band was emerging from the burgeoning UK indie scene, quickly establishing themselves with their distinctive sound. The album marked their entry into the mainstream, following a series of successful live performances and a growing fanbase.
Stylistic neighbors: Interpol· Franz Ferdinand· The Futureheads