Everything Ever Written cover

Everything Ever Written

Idlewild · 2015

54 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Melodic alternative rock intertwines introspective lyrics with rich instrumentation, creating a reflective soundscape throughout the album.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Collect Yourself — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its contemplative lyrics and dynamic arrangement, inviting listeners into Idlewild's introspective world.
  • →
    Every Little Means Trust — This song features poignant lyrics that explore themes of vulnerability and trust, paired with an engaging melody that showcases the band’s growth.
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    (Use It) If You Can Use It — Clocking in at over seven minutes, this track stands out for its expansive sound and intricate arrangements, demonstrating Idlewild's willingness to experiment.
  • →
    On Another Planet — With its catchy hooks and thoughtful lyrics, this track encapsulates the band's ability to blend pop sensibility with deeper emotional narratives.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends melodic rock with introspective lyrics, showcasing solid craftsmanship but lacking standout cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered instrumentation, with guitars and keyboards weaving together to create a rich soundscape.
  • The lyrics often reflect introspective themes, with a focus on personal experiences and emotions that are explored across multiple tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 journeys
  • wistful melodies for introspection
  • earnest lyrics with emotional depth
  • consistent pacing for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

Career context
Everything Ever Written is Idlewild's sixth studio album, released after a five-year hiatus following the band's previous record, Post Electric Blues. This period saw the group reestablishing their identity and sound, moving toward a more mature and contemplative direction while reuniting with producer Dave Eringa, who had worked with them earlier in their career.
Stylistic neighbors
Biffy Clyro· The Maccabees· We Are Scientists

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Collect Yourself 4:39
  • 2 Come on Ghost 4:17
  • 3 So Many Things to Decide 4:12
  • 4 Nothing I Can Do About It 4:47
  • 5 Every Little Means Trust 3:40
  • 6 (Use It) If You Can Use It 7:11
  • 7 Like a Clown 4:57
  • 8 On Another Planet 3:20
  • 9 All Things Different 4:27
  • 10 Radium Girl 3:19
  • 11 Left Like Roses 5:02
  • 12 Utopia 4:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata