What makes Beautiful Ones by Suede notable?

Beautiful Ones was notable for its critical acclaim, receiving positive reviews from major publications like NME and The Guardian. The title track reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, further establishing Suede's influence in the alternative rock scene during the 1990s. Released on October 14, 1996, Beautiful Ones marked Suede's third studio album, coming after the commercial success of their previous release, Coming Up. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their place within the Britpop movement, striving for artistic depth while maintaining mainstream appeal.

How many songs are on Beautiful Ones?

Beautiful Ones has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Released 30 years ago today

Beautiful Ones

Suede · 1996

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Glistening guitars and soaring melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a lush soundscape of yearning and nostalgia.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Beautiful Ones — The title track encapsulates the album's themes with its anthemic chorus and lush instrumentation, reflecting both celebration and melancholy.
→
Young Men — This song juxtaposes energetic instrumentals with poignant lyrics about youth and disillusionment, showcasing Suede's signature blend of exuberance and introspection.
→
The Sound of the Streets — With its driving rhythms and streetwise narrative, this track captures the essence of urban life, making it a standout representation of Britpop's cultural commentary.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies and varied arrangements, solidifying Suede's Britpop sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a soaring chorus that contrasts with verses that build tension through layered instrumentation.
The second track, 'Young Men', employs a slower tempo and a more subdued arrangement, creating a stark contrast to the opener.
The final track, 'The Sound of the Streets', incorporates a driving rhythm and anthemic melodies, providing a climactic finish to the single.

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: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Suede's reputation after the success of Coming Up.
Career context: Released on October 14, 1996, Beautiful Ones marked Suede's third studio album, coming after the commercial success of their previous release, Coming Up. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their place within the Britpop movement, striving for artistic depth while maintaining mainstream appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Pulp· The Verve· Placebo

New to Suede? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Beautiful Ones

The bridge shifts to a more vulnerable tone, highlighting feelings of longing amidst a backdrop of celebration.

This contrast deepens the emotional impact, balancing the euphoric sound with a poignant acknowledgment of impermanence.