B-Sides: 1996–2006 cover

B-Sides: 1996–2006

Placebo · 2011

101 min · 28 tracks · alternative rock

A collection of eclectic and atmospheric tracks showcasing Placebo's signature blend of melancholic melodies and experimental edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dark Globe Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Hug Bubble — The track stands out for its catchy chorus and whimsical lyrics, encapsulating Placebo's knack for blending dark themes with an upbeat sound.
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    Lazarus — This song showcases emotional depth through its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, representing the band's ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
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    Been Smoking Too Long — The track's raw energy and punk influences highlight Placebo's early sound while also demonstrating their lyrical exploration of addiction and desire.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with highlights
  • introspective tracks for deep listening
  • short bursts of eclectic energy
  • late-night reflective mood shifts
  • emotional rawness in every track

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer polished studio productions

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A compilation of rare tracks, appealing primarily to dedicated fans rather than new listeners.
Themes
surreal imagery· punk rebellion
Career context
Released in 2011, B-Sides: 1996–2006 compiles tracks from Placebo's first decade, marking a retrospective moment in the band's career. By this point, they had released five studio albums, with their sound evolving from the raw energy of their debut to more polished productions. This collection reflects both their indie roots and their experimentation with electronic elements, offering fans a glimpse into their creative process during those formative years.
Stylistic neighbors
The Cure· Interpol· My Chemical Romance
New to Placebo? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Lazarus

    The narrator directly addresses themes of loss and longing through vivid imagery that evokes deep emotional responses.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Dark Globe Start here 2:15
  • 2 Hare Krishna 4:25
  • 3 Been Smoking Too Long 2:17
  • 4 Hug Bubble 3:02
  • 5 Flesh Mechanic (demo) 4:29
  • 6 HK Farewell 7:31
  • 7 Slackerbitch 3:24
  • 8 Eyesight to the Blind 2:58
  • 9 Miss Moneypenny 2:50
  • 10 Waiting for the Son of Man 4:10
  • 11 Then the Clouds Will Open for Me 4:20
  • 12 Mars Landing Party 1:44
  • 13 Leeloo 5:19
  • 14 Needledick 1:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Innocence of Sleep 3:46
  • 2 Ion 4:07
  • 3 Aardvark 2:57
  • 4 Theme From Funky Reverend 2:52
  • 5 Leni 4:37
  • 6 Bubblegun 5:12
  • 7 Dub Psychosis 3:38
  • 8 Little Mo 3:00
  • 9 Evalia 4:18
  • 10 Drink You Pretty 3:54
  • 11 Soulmates 3:07
  • 12 Detox Five 2:50
  • 13 Uneedmemorethanineedyou 3:30
  • 14 Lazarus 3:25

What to play next

We Come in Pieces
Listen next

We Come in Pieces

2011

Continues the atmospheric and experimental sound explored in B-Sides.
Loud Like Love
Go back to

Loud Like Love

2013

Leads into a similar emotional landscape with rich textures.
Full Placebo discography Where to start with Placebo Artists like Placebo
alternative rock electronic rock indie rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

The Smashing Pumpkins

Shares dark melodies and introspective lyrics with a blend of alternative rock and experimental sounds.

OK Computer

OK Computer

Radiohead

Features surreal imagery and emotional depth, combining electronic elements with alternative rock.

Turn on the Bright Lights

Turn on the Bright Lights

Interpol

Combines post-punk revival sound with moody atmospheres and contemplative lyrics that resonate similarly.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata