What makes Always Ascending by Franz Ferdinand notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, often highlighting its bold sonic experimentation. It debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart and was nominated for the Mercury Prize, reinforcing the band's enduring relevance in the indie rock scene. Always Ascending is Franz Ferdinand's fifth studio album, following their 2013 release Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action. At this point in their career, the band was experimenting with a more electronic sound, signaling a shift from their earlier raw guitar-driven roots. The album marked their first release after a hiatus and lineup changes that included the departure of guitarist Nick McCarthy.

How many songs are on Always Ascending?

Always Ascending has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

Released 9 years ago this October

Always Ascending

Franz Ferdinand · 2017

5 min · 1 track · indie rock

Funky grooves and shimmering synths entwine with sharp guitar riffs, creating an uplifting yet introspective indie rock experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Always Ascending — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of growth and transformation through its infectious rhythm and uplifting lyrics.
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Lazy Boy — With its playful beat and witty lyrics, this track showcases the band's ability to blend humor with social commentary, reflecting modern life experiences.
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Huck and Jim — This song stands out for its narrative depth, exploring themes of friendship and adventure while maintaining a catchy melody that invites singalong.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends vibrant rhythms with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong production and varied pacing.

What we noticed

The opening track features a steady, pulsating beat that sets a danceable tone, which is maintained through the first half of the album.
Several tracks incorporate layered synths and rhythmic guitar lines, creating a textured sound that contrasts with the introspective lyrics.
The final three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, introducing a more reflective mood that diverges from the earlier upbeat energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 Always Ascending 5:21

What to play next

Listen next

Always Ascending

2018

Go back to

Live 2014 at the London Roundhouse

2014

Full Franz Ferdinand discography Where to start with Franz Ferdinand Artists like Franz Ferdinand

indie rock

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