Alopecia cover

Alopecia

Why? · 2008

45 min · 14 tracks · indie rock

Alopecia blends intricate lyrics with eclectic instrumentation, creating a unique tapestry of indie rock and experimental sounds.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Good Friday — This track encapsulates the album's blend of introspection and whimsy, featuring clever wordplay that highlights the tension between personal struggles and everyday life.
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    The Hollows — With its haunting melody and vivid storytelling, this song exemplifies Why?'s ability to merge emotional vulnerability with complex musical arrangements.
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    Song of the Sad Assassin — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of identity and self-doubt, showcasing the band's signature mix of irony and earnestness.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intricate lyrics with eclectic instrumentation
  • short bursts of lyrical introspection
  • quirky storytelling in concise tracks
  • playful irreverence in unexpected moments

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek heavy, polished production

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2008, Why? was transitioning from their earlier work to a more mature sound with Alopecia, their third studio album. Following the breakout success of their previous release, Elephant Eyelash, this album showcased a refinement in lyrical depth and musical experimentation, marking a pivotal moment in their evolution as artists.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • These Few Presidents

    The narrative shifts from personal reflection to social commentary, critiquing authority while weaving in personal anecdotes.

    This transition deepens the song's impact by juxtaposing individual experiences against broader societal issues, reinforcing the album's thematic complexity.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Vowels, Part 2 4:04
  • 2 Good Friday 3:49
  • 3 These Few Presidents 3:04
  • 4 The Hollows 3:54
  • 5 Song of the Sad Assassin 4:12
  • 6 Gnashville 3:48
  • 7 Fatalist Palmistry 3:53
  • 8 The Fall of Mr. Fifths 3:15
  • 9 Brook & Waxing 2:34
  • 10 A Sky for Shoeing Horses Under 2:28
  • 11 Twenty Eight 0:44
  • 12 Simeon's Dilemma 3:32
  • 13 By Torpedo or Crohn's 4:03
  • 14 Exegesis 1:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata