Another World cover

Another World

The Roches · 1985

37 min · 10 tracks · folk music

Harmonious folk melodies intertwine with sharp, witty lyrics that reflect on love, identity, and the complexities of life.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Another World — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of longing and contemplation, built upon lush harmonies that create an introspective atmosphere.
  • →
    Love Radiates Around — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious melody and optimistic lyrics, showcasing the group's signature harmonization.
  • →
    The Angry Angry Man — With its satirical edge, this track offers a commentary on societal expectations while highlighting the trio's knack for blending humor with serious themes.

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 Roches blend sharp lyrics and harmonies, creating a distinctive folk sound that rewards multiple listens.

What we noticed

  • The album features intricate vocal harmonies that often overlap, creating a rich texture throughout the tracks.
  • Several songs incorporate conversational lyrics that shift perspectives, adding depth to the storytelling.
  • The tempo varies significantly between tracks, with some maintaining a brisk pace while others slow down for introspection.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • witty lyrics for thoughtful listeners
  • short tracks with playful energy
  • intimate moments of heartfelt reflection
  • easy sing-alongs with friends

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of lengthy explorations
  • prefer heavy, intense soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1985, Another World is The Roches' fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed self-titled debut. By this point in their career, the trio had established a distinctive sound marked by intricate vocal harmonies and clever songwriting, further solidifying their place in the folk music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Simon & Garfunkel· The Waifs· First Aid Kit

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Love Radiates Around 4:47
  • 2 Another World 3:17
  • 3 Come Softly to Me 3:02
  • 4 Missing 4:01
  • 5 Face Down at Folk City 4:07
  • 6 The Angry Angry Man 3:38
  • 7 Weeded Out 3:48
  • 8 Older Girls 2:56
  • 9 Love to See You 4:23
  • 10 Gimme a Slice 3:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata