What makes Born on Flag Day by Deer Tick notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, helping to establish Deer Tick as a significant presence in the indie rock world. It charted on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, reflecting its impact and resonance with listeners seeking authenticity in music during the late 2000s. Born on Flag Day is Deer Tick's second studio album, following their debut, War Elephant, which gained them critical attention. Released in 2009, this album solidified their place in the alternative rock scene, showcasing their growth both musically and lyrically as they ventured deeper into themes of personal struggle and social commentary.

Who is Born on Flag Day for?

Born on Flag Day works well if you're into poignant storytelling in every track, raw energy for late nights and melancholic reflections on life.

How many songs are on Born on Flag Day?

Born on Flag Day has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Born on Flag Day

Deer Tick · 2009

42 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A raw blend of alt-country and rock, brimming with introspective lyrics and a lo-fi aesthetic that captures youthful angst.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Little White Lies — This track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its catchy melodies and clever lyricism that critiques deception in relationships.
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Houston, TX — A standout narrative song that combines vivid storytelling with an infectious rhythm, highlighting the band’s ability to blend personal experiences with broader themes.
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Stung — Closing the album, this lengthy piece showcases emotional depth, gradually building intensity and complexity while providing a reflective conclusion to the journey throughout the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

47 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and a cohesive sound, though it doesn't break new ground in its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied dynamics and slower tracks.
Several songs feature a prominent use of acoustic guitar, creating a raw, stripped-down sound that complements the introspective lyrics.
The album closes with a track that features layered vocals and an extended instrumental outro, contrasting with the straightforward structures of earlier songs.

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

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

poignant storytelling in every track
raw energy for late nights
melancholic reflections on life
short songs for quick listens
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer polished production styles
seek long, pieces

Where this album fits

Career context: Born on Flag Day is Deer Tick's second studio album, following their debut, War Elephant, which gained them critical attention. Released in 2009, this album solidified their place in the alternative rock scene, showcasing their growth both musically and lyrically as they ventured deeper into themes of personal struggle and social commentary.
Stylistic neighbors: The Avett Brothers· Band of Horses· My Morning Jacket