Big Plans for Everybody cover

Released 40 years ago

Big Plans for Everybody

Let's Active · 1986

40 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A shimmering blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that captures the essence of mid-80s alternative rock.

Top tracks — play these first

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    In Little Ways — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious melody and clever lyricism, exemplifying the band's signature sound while introducing themes of personal reflection.
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    Talking to Myself — The song features a catchy chorus and introspective verses that delve into self-dialogue, showcasing the band's lyrical depth and musical hooks.
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    Last Chance Town — With its driving rhythm and vivid storytelling, this track encapsulates a sense of urgency and longing that resonates throughout the album.
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    Still Dark Out — At nearly six minutes long, this track stands out for its atmospheric build-up and contemplative lyrics, demonstrating Let's Active's ability to create expansive soundscapes.
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    Reflecting Pool — A brief but poignant piece that showcases the band's knack for concise songwriting and emotional resonance, leaving a lasting impression despite its short length.

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 showcases solid craftsmanship with melodic hooks but lacks a strong cohesive arc.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and jangly guitar riffs, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective mood.
  • Several songs utilize layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
  • The album features a consistent use of reverb on guitars, enhancing the shimmering quality of the sound throughout.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Talking to Myself

    A shift occurs in the bridge where the perspective changes from external observations to internal thoughts.

    This structural choice emphasizes the contrast between outward appearances and inner struggles, deepening the listener's engagement with the theme of self-reflection.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 In Little Ways 3:46
  • 2 Talking to Myself 3:30
  • 3 Writing the Book of Last Pages 3:56
  • 4 Last Chance Town 3:35
  • 5 Won't Go Wrong 3:21
  • 6 Badger 3:08
  • 7 Fell 3:37
  • 8 Still Dark Out 5:50
  • 9 Whispered News 4:34
  • 10 Reflecting Pool 2:26
  • 11 Route 67 2:47

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata