What makes Big Mess by Grouplove notable?

'Big Mess' received a warm reception, debuting at number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart and solidifying Grouplove's presence in the alternative rock scene. The album's lead single 'Welcome to Your Life' became a notable hit, capturing attention for its infectious chorus and themes of resilience amidst chaos. Released on September 9, 2016, 'Big Mess' is Grouplove's third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort 'Spreading Rumors' in 2013. At this point in their career, the band was aiming to evolve their sound while maintaining the vibrant energy that characterized their previous work, showcasing a more mature lyrical focus amidst their signature alternative rock style.

Big Mess works well if you're into catchy melodies for sing-alongs, vibrant energy for road trips and feel-good tracks for gatherings.

How many songs are on Big Mess?

Big Mess has 11 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Big Mess

Grouplove · 2016

40 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Bright melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an energetic yet contemplative atmosphere throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Welcome to Your Life — This track serves as an anthem of positivity, featuring dynamic instrumentation and a catchy chorus that encapsulates the album’s overall message of embracing life's unpredictability.
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Do You Love Someone — The song explores themes of vulnerability and longing, with a haunting melody that contrasts the upbeat arrangements found elsewhere on the album, showcasing Grouplove's emotional range.
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Standing in the Sun — With its bright, sunny disposition and uplifting lyrics, this track embodies the carefree spirit of summer, making it a standout moment that highlights the band's knack for feel-good music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic melodies with introspective lyrics, but lacks strong cohesion in its latter half.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent upbeat tempo, while the second half introduces slower tracks that create a contrast in energy.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal patterns between the male and female lead singers, enhancing the dynamic interplay.
The lyrics often reflect personal introspection, with themes of love and existential questioning woven throughout the melodies.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

catchy melodies for sing-alongs
vibrant energy for road trips
feel-good tracks for gatherings
earworm hooks that linger
upbeat vibes for morning routines

Maybe skip if you

slow-paced reflective moments
minimalist soundscapes and subtleties

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on September 9, 2016, 'Big Mess' is Grouplove's third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort 'Spreading Rumors' in 2013. At this point in their career, the band was aiming to evolve their sound while maintaining the vibrant energy that characterized their previous work, showcasing a more mature lyrical focus amidst their signature alternative rock style.
Stylistic neighbors: Foster the People· Portugal. The Man· Young the Giant