Back and Fourth
Lindisfarne · 1978
38 min · 11 tracks · folk rock
Folk-infused rock melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, capturing a bittersweet nostalgia reflective of the late '70s British music scene.
Top tracks — play these first
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Run for Home — This track combines anthemic instrumentation with lyrical themes of longing and escape, embodying the album's blend of folk rock and emotional resonance.
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Juke Box Gypsy — Opening the album, this lively track captures a carefree spirit while juxtaposing whimsical storytelling with a catchy melody, setting the tone for the record.
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Make Me Want to Stay — The poignant lyrics and emotive delivery in this track highlight the band's ability to convey vulnerability and deep emotional connection, making it a standout moment on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its contemporaries.
What we noticed
- Several tracks employ a call-and-response structure between lead vocals and backing harmonies, enhancing the folk-rock feel.
- The pacing varies significantly, with the first half presenting more upbeat tracks while the latter half shifts to slower, reflective songs.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- bittersweet nostalgia for past moments
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- easygoing melodies for relaxed vibes
- reflective lyrics during quiet evenings
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy, fast-paced music
- want complex, lengthy compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 1978, Back and Fourth marked Lindisfarne's fifth studio album during a period of fluctuating lineup stability. Following their commercial successes in the early '70s, this album represented a shift towards more personal songwriting and mature themes as the band navigated the changing musical landscape.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Fairport Convention· The Albion Band· Pentangle
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Juke Box Gypsy 2:24
- 2 Warm Feeling 4:06
- 3 Woman 3:27
- 4 Only Alone 3:44
- 5 Run for Home 4:23
- 6 Kings Cross Blues 3:45
- 7 Get Wise 3:07
- 8 You and Me 3:05
- 9 Marshall Riley's Army 3:38
- 10 Angels at Eleven 2:55
- 11 Make Me Want to Stay 3:57
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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