What makes Goodness by The Hotelier notable?

The album received widespread acclaim, landing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying The Hotelier's status within the emo and punk revival scenes. Critics praised its lyrical depth and sonic experimentation, contributing significantly to discussions surrounding the evolution of punk rock in contemporary music. By the time 'Goodness' was released in 2016, The Hotelier had already established themselves with their critically acclaimed album 'Home, Like Noplace Is There.' This third studio album marks a pivotal moment as they explored more intricate songwriting and emotional depth following the success of their previous work. It reflects their growth from a punk-centric band to one that embraces more nuanced themes and soundscapes.

How many songs are on Goodness?

Goodness has 13 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Goodness

The Hotelier · 2016

47 min · 13 tracks · punk rock

A raw yet contemplative blend of punk rock energy and introspective lyricism that invites listeners into a deeply personal realm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Piano Player — This track highlights the album's blend of vulnerability and instrumentation, showcasing a poignant reflection on loss and longing through haunting melodies.
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Settle the Scar — With its intricate layering of instruments and emotionally charged vocals, this song encapsulates the struggle for healing from past traumas, resonating deeply with listeners.
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You in This Light — This track is a standout for its intimate exploration of connection and presence, employing vivid imagery that draws listeners into a moment of shared experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic punk with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong songwriting and production choices.

What we noticed

The album opens with a spoken-word intro that sets a reflective tone, followed by tracks that alternate between high-energy punk and slower, more introspective moments.
Several songs feature layered instrumentation, with guitars and drums building intensity before dropping to quieter sections, creating dynamic contrasts.
Lyrically, the album often employs personal narratives and vivid imagery, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the themes presented in each track.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Piano Player

The lyrics shift from nostalgia to a stark confrontation with mortality, allowing a glimpse into deep personal loss.

This transition between reflective reminiscence and an urgent plea for understanding showcases the songwriter's skill in navigating complex emotional landscapes.

Tracklist

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

1 N 43° 59' 38.927" W 71° 23' 45.27'' 0:48
2 Goodness Pt. 2 4:03
3 Piano Player 5:34
4 N 43° 33' 55.676" W 72° 45' 11.914" 1:33
5 Two Deliverances 3:58
6 Settle the Scar 4:18
7 Opening Mail for My Grandmother 3:24
8 N 42° 6' 3.001" W 71° 55' 3.295" 1:17
9 Soft Animal 4:04
10 Sun 6:42
11 You in This Light 3:39
12 Fear of Good 1:42
13 End of Reel 6:16

What to play next

Go back to

Home, Like Noplace Is There

2014

Full The Hotelier discography Artists like The Hotelier

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata