What makes Commontime by Field Music notable?

The album received critical acclaim, with several tracks charting well in the UK Independent Albums Chart. Its exploration of human relationships and personal growth resonated deeply with listeners, further solidifying Field Music's reputation within the indie rock scene. Commontime is Field Music's fifth studio album, released during a time when the band was reinvigorating their sound after a hiatus. Following the 2012 release of Plumb, this album marks their return with a renewed focus on concise songwriting and complex arrangements, showcasing their evolution as musicians.

Who is Commontime for?

Commontime works well if you're into steady pacing for focused listening, reflective lyrics for introspection and vibrant melodies for uplifting moods.

How many songs are on Commontime?

Commontime has 14 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Commontime

Field Music · 2016

57 min · 14 tracks · indie rock

Intricate melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a tapestry of reflective indie rock that feels both personal and universal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Noisy Days Are Over — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its lush instrumentation and reflective themes about transition and change, embodying the album's overarching narrative.
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Disappointed — With sharp lyrics and an infectious melody, this track captures the essence of disillusionment in relationships while showcasing the band's signature harmonies.
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How Should I Know If You've Changed? — This song cleverly uses questioning to explore uncertainty in personal connections, highlighted by its catchy chorus that contrasts with its introspective lyrics.

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 combines intricate melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong songwriting and production.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a steady mid-tempo, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
Several songs incorporate intricate vocal harmonies that weave in and out, creating a layered texture throughout the record.
The lyrics often reflect on personal experiences and relationships, with recurring themes of introspection and change.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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 pacing for focused listening
reflective lyrics for introspection
vibrant melodies for uplifting moods
consistent flow throughout the album

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification tracks
prefer shorter standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Commontime is Field Music's fifth studio album, released during a time when the band was reinvigorating their sound after a hiatus. Following the 2012 release of Plumb, this album marks their return with a renewed focus on concise songwriting and complex arrangements, showcasing their evolution as musicians.
Stylistic neighbors: The Futureheads· Hot Chip· Broken Social Scene