What makes Ahead of the Lions by Living Things notable?

The album garnered attention for its politically charged themes and energetic sound, resonating with the post-9/11 zeitgeist. It received critical acclaim from several music publications, which praised its boldness and relevance in the early 2000s rock landscape. Released on October 4, 2005, Ahead of the Lions is Living Things' debut album following their formation in 2003. At this point, the band was establishing their sound and identity within the alternative rock scene, building on a foundation that blended punk revival influences with socially conscious lyrics.

Who is Ahead of the Lions for?

Ahead of the Lions works well if you're into energetic anthems for group sing-alongs, short bursts of urgency and cathartic release through raw energy.

How many songs are on Ahead of the Lions?

Ahead of the Lions has 12 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Ahead of the Lions

Living Things · 2005

42 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A raw fusion of punk energy and alternative rock melodies, brimming with political angst and rhythmic urgency.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
God Made Hate — This track stands out for its incisive exploration of societal issues, merging powerful lyrics with an infectious punk rhythm that captures the band's ethos.
→
No New Jesus — Its confrontational lyrics challenge religious dogma while juxtaposing catchy hooks with driving instrumentation, showcasing the band's knack for blending critique with appeal.
→
I Owe — The track features a dynamic arrangement and personal reflections that highlight the band's ability to intertwine introspection with broader themes of accountability.
→
March in Daylight — This song exemplifies the album's urgent tone, utilizing a propulsive beat to address themes of disillusionment and societal expectations in a captivating way.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

energetic anthems for group sing-alongs
short bursts of urgency
cathartic release through raw energy
for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer mellow, slow tempos
dislike socially charged themes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on October 4, 2005, Ahead of the Lions is Living Things' debut album following their formation in 2003. At this point, the band was establishing their sound and identity within the alternative rock scene, building on a foundation that blended punk revival influences with socially conscious lyrics.
Stylistic neighbors: The Bronx· Death from Above 1979· Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Tracklist

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

1 Bombs Below 3:00
2 I Owe 2:58
3 Bom Bom Bom 3:04
4 New Year 3:38
5 God Made Hate 4:19
6 End Gospel 3:24
7 No New Jesus 3:47
8 March in Daylight 3:36
9 Keep It 'Till You Fold 4:11
10 Monsters of Man 2:06
11 On All Fours 3:49
12 I Wish the Best for You 4:21

What to play next

Listen next

Habeas Corpus

2009

Go back to

Black Skies in Broad Daylight

2004

Full Living Things discography Artists like Living Things

alternative rock punk revival

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata