What makes Call and Answer by Barenaked Ladies notable?

This album is significant for its innovative remixes of hit tracks, particularly 'One Week,' which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The release exemplified the band's adaptability in an evolving music landscape, highlighting their influence on the alt-rock scene during this era. Critics praised how the remixes invigorated existing hits and kept the band's sound fresh. In 1999, Barenaked Ladies were riding the commercial wave following their breakthrough album, 'Stunt,' which featured the massive hit 'One Week.' 'Call and Answer' was released as a remix collection, showcasing their ability to blend catchy melodies with innovative production techniques. The album marked a moment where they explored new sounds while maintaining their signature humor and charm.

How many songs are on Call and Answer?

Call and Answer has 3 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Call and Answer

Barenaked Ladies · 1999

10 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A playful mix of pop rock and remixed beats that captures the exuberant spirit of late '90s alternative music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Call and Answer (radio remix) — This title track's radio remix encapsulates the band's introspective lyrics while embracing an upbeat tempo that invites sing-alongs, making it a staple in their live performances.
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One Week (Dave's Big Beat remix) — This remix reimagines the original hit with a danceable beat, enhancing its playful energy and demonstrating the band's versatility in appealing to diverse audiences.
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One Week (Pull's Break remix) — Offering a different sonic perspective on an already popular song, this remix adds layers of electronic influences that reflect the experimental trends in late '90s music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The remixes showcase creativity but remain tied to their original hits, limiting their standalone impact.

What we noticed

The first track is a radio remix that emphasizes a more polished sound, with added layers of electronic beats.
The collection maintains a consistent upbeat tempo across all three tracks, reinforcing the playful spirit of the late '90s.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A remix single showcasing adaptability, but not a primary album in their catalog.
Themes: radio-friendly introspection· quirky pop remixes· commercial success era
Career context: In 1999, Barenaked Ladies were riding the commercial wave following their breakthrough album, 'Stunt,' which featured the massive hit 'One Week.' 'Call and Answer' was released as a remix collection, showcasing their ability to blend catchy melodies with innovative production techniques. The album marked a moment where they explored new sounds while maintaining their signature humor and charm.
Stylistic neighbors: They Might Be Giants· Guster· Ben Folds Five