A Distant History: Rarities 1997–2007
Idlewild · 2007
64 min · 20 tracks · alternative rock
A collection of raw, energetic tracks that encapsulate Idlewild's early exploration of identity and artistry within alternative rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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Self Healer — This track features punchy instrumentation and introspective lyrics, embodying the band's early sound while hinting at their lyrical depth. The energy in its brevity makes it a standout representation of their youthful vigor.
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Everything Flows — A fan-favorite that perfectly captures Idlewild's blend of melodic hooks and angst-ridden lyrics, this song reflects their knack for creating resonant anthems. Its infectious chorus has established it as a defining piece in their catalog.
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I Found That Essence Rare — This cover showcases the band's ability to reinterpret influential tracks while maintaining their distinct sound, illustrating their roots in the post-punk scene. It highlights their musical influences and commitment to authenticity.
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Gone Too Long — With its haunting melody and reflective lyrics, this track stands out for its emotional weight and maturity. It exemplifies the deeper explorations Idlewild undertook during this period of their career.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- raw energy for reflective moments
- dynamic progression with emotional resolution
- short bursts of introspective lyrics
- for nostalgic late-night drives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, cohesive albums
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2007, A Distant History: Rarities 1997–2007 marks a pivotal moment for Idlewild as they transitioned from their earlier indie successes to a more mature sound. This compilation captures the band's formative years, featuring tracks from their first decade, including material not previously available on their main albums.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Biffy Clyro· The Maccabees· We Are Scientists
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Queen of the Troubled Teens 2:17
- 2 Self Healer 2:00
- 3 Chandelier 2:21
- 4 I Want to Be a Writer 1:48
- 5 Satan Polaroid 3:18
- 6 This Is Worse 3:39
- 7 You Don’t Have the Heart (live at the Glasgow Garage) 2:07
- 8 There’s Glory in Your Story 1:59
- 9 A Distant History 4:36
- 10 I Was Made to Think It 4:00
- 11 Poor Thing 4:18
- 12 The Nothing I Know 4:25
- 13 Everything Flows 3:34
- 14 I Found That Essence Rare 3:05
- 15 Hold on to Your Breath 3:54
- 16 Gone Too Long 2:59
- 17 Don’t Let Me Change 4:52
- 18 El Capitan (acoustic) 4:10
- 19 Winter Is Blue 2:20
- 20 Hidden Ways 2:41
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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