Butter Miracle
Counting Crows · 2021
27 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective blend of alternative rock and pop sensibilities, showcasing intricate storytelling set against lush instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Tall Grass — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its contemplative lyrics and rich acoustic arrangement, establishing the reflective nature of the project.
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Angel of 14th Street — This song showcases vivid storytelling and emotional resonance, effectively encapsulating the album's themes of longing and introspection.
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Bobby and the Rat‐Kings — An energetic track that blends catchy melodies with narrative depth, it highlights the band's ability to combine storytelling with an infectious sound.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong storytelling and cohesive sound but lacks standout production elements.
What we noticed
- The first track opens with a slow build, layering instrumentation gradually before introducing vocals.
- Each song features a narrative structure, often telling a story through detailed lyrics and character development.
- The EP maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, with only slight variations in dynamics across the five tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- gradual builds and payoffs
- reflective storytelling moments
- steady, consistent energy levels
- immersive listening sessions
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a lengthy hiatus, showcasing continued artistic vitality.
- Career context
- Released on May 21, 2021, 'Butter Miracle' is Counting Crows' first album in seven years, following their 2014 release 'Somewhere Under Wonderland.' This record marks a return to form for the band, featuring a more cohesive sound and narrative approach that aligns with their earlier work while showcasing their evolution.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Matchbox Twenty· Gin Blossoms· Hootie & the Blowfish
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Elevator Boots
The verse shifts from nostalgia to urgent self-reflection as the narrator confronts past choices amidst a backdrop of vivid imagery.
This moment demonstrates a significant tonal shift, blending personal introspection with evocative storytelling that deepens emotional engagement.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Tall Grass 4:36
- 2 Elevator Boots 3:48
- 3 Angel of 14th Street 5:02
- 4 Bobby and the Rat‐Kings 5:29
- 5 August and Everything After 8:41
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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