A Kiss Before You Go
Katzenjammer · 2011
40 min · 12 tracks · folk music
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and eclectic instrumentation that dances between playful exuberance and poignant reflection.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Will Dance (When I Walk Away) — This track encapsulates the album's spirit with its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, merging danceable folk elements with introspective lyrics about departure.
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Cherry Pie — A playful exploration of romantic entanglements, this song stands out for its clever wordplay and upbeat tempo, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
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Lady Marlene — With its haunting melody and storytelling approach, this track highlights the band's ability to weave emotional narratives through their music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends eclectic instrumentation with strong lyrical storytelling, creating a distinctive yet cohesive folk sound.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'Rock-Paper-Scissors', which alternates between fast-paced sections and slower, more contemplative moments.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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, consistent energy levels
- playful and vibrant atmosphere
- short, engaging listening sessions
- mid-tempo reflective moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'A Kiss Before You Go' was released in 2011, Katzenjammer had already established themselves with their debut album, 'Le Pop' (2010), which garnered international attention. This second album showcases their growth as artists, further refining their distinctive sound characterized by rich harmonies and a playful use of diverse instruments.
- Stylistic neighbors
- First Aid Kit· Of Monsters and Men· The Oh Hellos
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Shepherd’s Song
The narrative shifts from personal reflection to a broader commentary on community and belonging.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 A Kiss Before You Go 1:17
- 2 I Will Dance (When I Walk Away) 3:51
- 3 Cherry Pie 3:01
- 4 Land of Confusion 3:39
- 5 Lady Marlene 4:35
- 6 Rock-Paper-Scissors 3:29
- 7 Cocktails and Ruby Slippers 4:00
- 8 Soviet Trumpeter 4:12
- 9 Loathsome M 2:42
- 10 Shepherd’s Song 3:09
- 11 Gypsy Flee 2:54
- 12 God’s Great Dust Storm 4:06
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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