Born on a Pirate Ship cover

Born on a Pirate Ship

Barenaked Ladies · 1996

55 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · pop rock

A playful blend of folk-rock melodies and clever, whimsical lyrics that capture life's oddities.

Why this album works

'Born on a Pirate Ship' includes the hit single 'The Old Apartment,' which peaked at number 18 on the Canadian charts and helped establish the band's presence in the mainstream. The album's clever songwriting and catchy tunes received positive critical reception, contributing to the band's growing reputation as a leading force in the alternative rock genre during the mid-90s.
Best for
whimsical storytelling in lyrics steady pacing for casual listening playful melodies for light moods
Context
Released on March 19, 1996, 'Born on a Pirate Ship' was Barenaked Ladies' third studio album and followed their breakthrough success with 'Maybe You Should Drive.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their unique sound and gaining popularity in the alternative rock scene. This album marked their first major label release under Reprise Records, allowing for broader distribution and exposure.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Stomach vs. Heart 2:29
  • 2 Straw Hat and Old Dirty Hank 3:23
  • 3 I Know 3:02
  • 4 This Is Where It Ends 2:53
  • 5 When I Fall 4:04
  • 6 I Live With It Every Day 4:30
  • 7 The Old Apartment Standout 3:29
  • 8 Call Me Calmly 2:52
  • 9 Break Your Heart 4:57
  • 10 Spider in My Room 4:03
  • 11 Same Thing 4:01
  • 12 Just a Toy 3:42
  • 13 In the Drink 5:12
  • 14 Shoe Box Standout 2:56
  • 15 If I Had $1000000 (UK edit) Standout 4:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata