What makes Across the Universe by Trip Shakespeare notable?

The album received positive reviews and established Trip Shakespeare as a notable act within the alternative rock scene of the early '90s. It has been recognized for its inventive songwriting and melodic complexity, helping to pave the way for subsequent bands in the genre. Across the Universe is Trip Shakespeare's second album, released in 1990 after their debut, Applehead Man. At this point in their career, they were building on the critical acclaim from their first release while continuing to define their unique blend of folk, rock, and pop influences.

How many songs are on Across the Universe?

Across the Universe has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Across the Universe

Trip Shakespeare · 1990

41 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Lush harmonies intertwine with playful melodies, creating a whimsical soundscape that captures the essence of early '90s alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Turtledove — This opening track showcases the band's signature harmony and whimsical lyrics, setting a vibrant tone for the album.
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Gone, Gone, Gone — The track features a captivating blend of melancholy and upbeat instrumentation that exemplifies the band's ability to balance contrasting emotions.
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Honey Tree — This song highlights intricate arrangements and reflective lyrics, showcasing the band's lyrical depth and musical sophistication.

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 showcases inventive songwriting and playful melodies typical of early '90s alternative rock.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature intricate vocal harmonies layered over jangly guitars, establishing a playful yet complex sound.
Several songs incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'Gone, Gone, Gone,' which shifts from a laid-back groove to an upbeat chorus.
The album closes with 'Honey Tree,' which features a gradual build-up of instrumentation before fading out, creating a sense of resolution.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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 Turtledove 3:37
2 Pearle 3:46
3 Snow Days 4:03
4 Drummer Like Me 3:50
5 Gone, Gone, Gone 4:44
6 The Slacks 3:59
7 Unlucky Lady 2:34
8 The Nail 3:11
9 The Crane 3:23
10 Late 3:28
11 Honey Tree 4:31

What to play next

Listen next

Lulu

1991

Go back to

Are You Shakespearienced?

1989

Full Trip Shakespeare discography Artists like Trip Shakespeare

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata