Drawing the Target Around the Arrow
Caroline Polachek · 2017
59 min · 18 tracks · indie pop
Ethereal synths and delicate vocals create a dreamlike soundscape, blending indie pop with experimental textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Borg Pillow — This track stands out for its intricate production and layered harmonies, creating a haunting atmosphere that encapsulates the album's overall aesthetic.
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Doves — At just over a minute long, this track is a poignant interlude that captures the essence of longing through minimalistic sound design and delicate vocal delivery.
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Vertical Sunset — With its expansive instrumentation and emotional weight, this track exemplifies Polachek's ability to blend introspective lyrics with lush sonic landscapes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases innovative production and unique song structures, contributing to its distinct sound within indie pop.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a slow build, layering ethereal synths and vocals that create a dreamlike atmosphere, particularly in the first three tracks.
- Several tracks feature unconventional song structures, such as 'Borg Pillow', which shifts between distinct sections without a traditional chorus.
- The final track, 'You Are Here', serves as a reflective conclusion, contrasting with the more energetic pieces earlier in the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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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
- dreamlike soundscapes for introspection
- short tracks for varied moods
- ethereal vocals inviting reflection
- patient unfolding of emotional depth
- immersive experience for quiet moments
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy participation
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on January 19, 2017, 'Drawing the Target Around the Arrow' marks Caroline Polachek's debut solo album after her tenure with Chairlift. Following the band's breakup in 2017, this album showcases her evolution as an artist, stepping into a more personal and experimental sonic territory.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Charli XCX· Grimes· Muna
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Pupil
The chorus shifts perspective to address a significant other directly, conveying deep vulnerability amidst swirling emotions.
This direct address breaks from the more abstract language used elsewhere in the album, creating an intimate connection that enhances the song's impact.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Lilian’s Pavilion 2:57
- 2 Doves 1:37
- 3 Hive Dream 2:05
- 4 Borg Pillow 5:36
- 5 Low Tide 3:52
- 6 Water 1:53
- 7 Up the Flagpole 4:07
- 8 Missed Exit 2:14
- 9 Black Background 2:27
- 10 Vertical Sunset 2:22
- 11 Valley Hum 4:24
- 12 Singalong 5:12
- 13 It Can Wait 3:19
- 14 Pupil 5:32
- 15 Window Seat 3:23
- 16 Sleeping Fish 2:52
- 17 Verge of Crying 2:24
- 18 You Are Here 3:36
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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