What makes Death of a Cheerleader by Pom Pom Squad notable?

The album received critical acclaim, landing high on several year-end lists and demonstrating significant impact within the indie rock scene. It notably showcases a fresh voice in the genre, resonating particularly with Gen Z audiences and earning praise from outlets like Pitchfork and NPR. Released on June 25, 2021, 'Death of a Cheerleader' is Pom Pom Squad's debut full-length album following their earlier EPs. At this point, the band was gaining traction with their sound and aesthetic, which melded elements of punk and alternative rock with personal storytelling.

How many songs are on Death of a Cheerleader?

Death of a Cheerleader has 14 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Death of a Cheerleader

Pom Pom Squad · 2021

30 min · 14 tracks · punk rock

A vivid blend of grunge and punk energy wrapped in raw, confessional lyrics that echo youthful angst and vulnerability.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Head Cheerleader — This track encapsulates the album's themes of identity and societal expectations through its catchy melody paired with sharp, introspective lyrics.
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Crying — With its emotive delivery and lyrical depth, this track reflects the raw emotional core of the album, exploring feelings of sadness and vulnerability.
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Red With Love — This song stands out for its blend of upbeat instrumentals and poignant lyrics, creating a contrast that highlights the complexity of relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

71 /100

Treeline

Higher than 52% of albums we've rated

The album combines raw energy with personal lyrics, showcasing a strong debut in the punk rock scene.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brief instrumental track that sets a moody tone before diving into more energetic songs.
Several tracks feature dynamic shifts in intensity, with verses that build tension leading into explosive choruses.
Lyrically, the album employs a confessional style, often reflecting on personal experiences and emotions, which is evident in multiple tracks.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective conclusion to the album.

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

Tracklist

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

1 Soundcheck 0:52
2 Head Cheerleader 3:08
3 Crying 3:09
4 Second That 2:33
5 Cake 1:48
6 Lux 1:39
7 Crimson + Clover 2:04
8 Red With Love 2:29
9 Forever 3:10
10 Shame Reactions 1:33
11 Drunk Voicemail 3:30
12 This Couldn't Happen 1:26
13 Be Good 2:36
14 Thank You and Goodnight 0:24

What to play next

Full Pom Pom Squad discography Artists like Pom Pom Squad

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