Released 10 years ago
Control
Kensington · 2016
40 min · 11 tracks · indie rock
An energetic blend of indie rock layered with anthemic choruses and introspective lyrics, creating a dynamic listening experience.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Control — The title track serves as the thematic centerpiece of the album, exploring themes of self-empowerment and personal agency through a driving rhythm and soaring melodies.
-
→
Fiji — This track combines catchy hooks with a laid-back vibe, showcasing Kensington's ability to craft memorable pop-infused rock songs that resonate with listeners.
-
→
Do I Ever Start here — Opening the album, this track introduces the listener to Kensington's signature sound, featuring poignant lyrics that reflect on doubt and longing set against a backdrop of vibrant instrumentals.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Control showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing energetic anthems with reflective moments.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album maintains a high energy level with driving rhythms and anthemic choruses, while the second half introduces more introspective themes.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that build during the chorus, creating a sense of uplift and unity.
- 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
-
6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 pace for casual listening
- infectious melodies for sing-alongs
- introspective vibes for reflection
- mid-tempo flow for road trips
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced instant gratification
- seek experimental soundscapes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Control further established Kensington's reputation and topped the Dutch Album Chart.
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2016, Control is Kensington's third studio album, following their successful 2014 release, Rivals. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their presence in the Dutch music scene and were looking to broaden their appeal with a more polished sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nothing but Thieves· Young Guns· Biffy Clyro
Tracklist
- 1 Do I Ever Start here 3:24
- 2 Fiji 2:40
- 3 Slicer 3:15
- 4 Regret 3:39
- 5 All Before You 3:39
- 6 Sorry 3:47
- 7 Control 4:35
- 8 Rely On 2:39
- 9 Bridges 3:40
- 10 Storms 4:11
- 11 St. Helena 4:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.