What makes A Different Ship by Here We Go Magic notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, with publications like Pitchfork praising its sonic experimentation. It contributed to the band's growing reputation within the indie rock scene, showcasing their ability to blend genres and innovate musically. Additionally, it charted on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, illustrating its reception among audiences. When 'A Different Ship' was released in 2012, Here We Go Magic was building on the success of their previous album, 'Pigeons,' which had garnered critical acclaim. This third album marked a significant evolution in their sound as they collaborated with producer Nigel Godrich, known for his work with Radiohead, indicating a shift towards more experimental and polished production.

How many songs are on A Different Ship?

A Different Ship has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

A Different Ship

Here We Go Magic · 2012

42 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

A dreamy blend of indie rock textures intertwines with introspective lyrics and experimental arrangements, creating an ethereal soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hard to Be Close — This track encapsulates the album's introspective tone with its lush instrumentation and reflective lyrics about personal connections and distance.
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I Believe in Action — With its driving rhythm and motivational message, this song stands out as an anthem for taking initiative and embracing change.
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A Different Ship — The title track features expansive melodies and complex arrangements, serving as a culmination of the themes explored throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends dreamy textures and introspective lyrics, showcasing solid craftsmanship but not reaching standout levels.

What we noticed

The album opens with an ambient 'Intro' that sets a dreamy tone, followed by tracks that gradually introduce more rhythmic elements.
Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, with guitars and synths weaving in and out of the mix, creating a textured soundscape.
The lyrics often reflect introspective themes, with vocal delivery varying between melodic singing and spoken word styles across different tracks.

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

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Intro 0:51
2 Hard to Be Close 3:47
3 Make Up Your Mind 4:05
4 Alone but Moving 3:57
5 I Believe in Action 4:39
6 Over the Ocean 4:26
7 Made to Be Old 4:06
8 How Do I Know 4:30
9 Miracle of Mary 3:51
10 A Different Ship 8:15

What to play next

Listen next

Be Small

2015

Go back to

Pigeons

2010

Full Here We Go Magic discography Artists like Here We Go Magic

indie rock

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