Chasing Yesterday cover

Chasing Yesterday

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds · 2015

47 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant mix of melodic rock and introspective lyrics that captures the essence of Gallagher's songwriting evolution.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Riverman — Opening the album with a contemplative tone, this track showcases Gallagher's signature blend of melody and introspection, setting the thematic stage for the entire record.
  • →
    In the Heat of the Moment — This energetic anthem features catchy hooks and a driving beat, representing Gallagher's ability to fuse classic rock influences with modern sensibilities.
  • →
    The Dying of the Light — With haunting melodies and reflective lyrics, this track exemplifies Gallagher's skill in crafting emotional narratives while maintaining a rich sonic landscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, though it has moments that feel less cohesive.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a driving rhythm and layered guitars, establishing an energetic tone that persists through the first half.
  • Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections, allowing for atmospheric build-ups before returning to the vocal melodies.
  • The lyrics often reflect introspection and personal themes, with a notable shift in mood towards the latter half of the record.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective journey
  • introspective moments for quiet nights
  • rich melodies for thoughtful listening
  • a blend of nostalgia and

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer fast-paced standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2015, Chasing Yesterday is Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds' second studio album, following their successful self-titled debut in 2011. At this point in his career, Gallagher was solidifying his identity as a solo artist after leaving Oasis, exploring more personal themes and varied musical styles.
Stylistic neighbors
Richard Ashcroft· The Verve· Coldplay

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • The Dying of the Light

    The verses subtly shift from past regrets to hopeful reflections on the future.

    This movement enhances the song's emotional arc, contrasting nostalgia with an uplifting sense of possibility.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 2 In the Heat of the Moment 3:29

Disc 2

  • 1 Riverman 5:41
  • 2 In the Heat of the Moment 3:29
  • 3 The Girl With X-Ray Eyes 3:20
  • 4 Lock All the Doors 3:41
  • 5 The Dying of the Light 5:11
  • 6 The Right Stuff 5:27
  • 7 While the Song Remains the Same 4:16
  • 8 The Mexican 3:46
  • 9 You Know We Can’t Go Back 3:46
  • 10 Ballad of the Mighty I 5:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata