What makes Flaws by Bastille notable?

Flaws gained significant attention for its introspective themes and catchy melodies, leading to chart success in the UK. The title track particularly resonated with audiences, contributing to Bastille's growing reputation and paving the way for their future hits. The EP's critical reception helped establish them as key players in the indie pop landscape during the early 2010s. Released in 2011, Flaws marked Bastille's transition from an emerging band to a notable presence in the UK music scene. This EP followed their breakthrough single, 'Overjoyed', and showcased their ability to blend emotive storytelling with synth-pop elements, solidifying their distinctive sound early in their career.

How many songs are on Flaws?

Flaws has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Flaws

Bastille · 2011

6 min · 2 tracks · synth-pop

Ethereal synths intertwine with poignant lyrics, creating an atmospheric soundscape that balances vulnerability and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Flaws — The title track encapsulates the essence of the EP, featuring vulnerable lyrics that explore self-acceptance and emotional complexity against a lush synth backdrop.
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Icarus — Icarus stands out with its dynamic production and metaphorical exploration of ambition and failure, showcasing Bastille's lyrical depth and sonic evolution.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong melodies and emotional depth but lacks the complexity to elevate it further.

What we noticed

The title track 'Flaws' features a gradual build-up of layered synths that create an ethereal atmosphere, while the vocals maintain a consistent emotional tone.
The second track 'Icarus' shifts to a more upbeat tempo with driving percussion, contrasting the introspective nature of 'Flaws'.
Both tracks utilize repetitive melodic hooks, which enhance their catchiness and make them memorable.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Showcased Bastille's emerging presence in the UK music scene after prior success.
Themes: personal flaws· ethereal reflections
Career context: Released in 2011, Flaws marked Bastille's transition from an emerging band to a notable presence in the UK music scene. This EP followed their breakthrough single, 'Overjoyed', and showcased their ability to blend emotive storytelling with synth-pop elements, solidifying their distinctive sound early in their career.
Stylistic neighbors: Chvrches· M83· Ellie Goulding