What makes Green Blade Rising by Levellers notable?

Green Blade Rising marked a significant return for the Levellers, reaching number 22 on the UK Albums Chart and receiving positive reviews from critics. The album was noted for its exploration of themes such as spirituality and activism, resonating with fans of the band while also re-establishing their presence in the folk rock scene. It highlighted the Levellers' ability to adapt and stay relevant amidst changing musical landscapes. Released in 2002, Green Blade Rising is the Levellers' sixth studio album and arrives after their commercial peak in the '90s. The band had seen a decline in mainstream success since their breakthrough but continued to evolve their sound, blending traditional folk influences with contemporary issues. This album reflects their commitment to social activism and musical experimentation during a time of transition.

Who is Green Blade Rising for?

Green Blade Rising works well if you're into steady mid-tempo communal vibes, lyrical storytelling for connection and for group sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Green Blade Rising?

Green Blade Rising has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Green Blade Rising

Levellers · 2002

37 min · 11 tracks · folk rock

Upbeat folk melodies intertwine with politically charged lyrics, creating anthemic soundscapes rooted in British tradition.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Four Winds — The opening track establishes the album's tone with its infectious energy and poignant lyrics about change and resilience, setting the stage for the themes explored throughout.
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Pretty Target — This song showcases the band's knack for merging catchy melodies with sharp political commentary, reflecting their ongoing engagement with social issues.
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Wake the World — Closing out the album, this track encapsulates a sense of hope and renewal, embodying the spirit of collective awakening that defines much of the Levellers' work.

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 upbeat folk melodies with politically charged themes, though it lacks a strong cohesive arc.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving rhythm in 'Four Winds', establishing an upbeat tempo that persists through the first half.
Tracks like 'Aspects of Spirit' introduce slower, more reflective moments, creating a contrast with the earlier energy.
Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response sections, enhancing the anthemic quality of the music.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo communal vibes
lyrical storytelling for connection
for group sing-alongs
great for afternoon gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
want standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Significant return after a decline, showcasing continued vitality and engagement.
Career context: Released in 2002, Green Blade Rising is the Levellers' sixth studio album and arrives after their commercial peak in the '90s. The band had seen a decline in mainstream success since their breakthrough but continued to evolve their sound, blending traditional folk influences with contemporary issues. This album reflects their commitment to social activism and musical experimentation during a time of transition.
Stylistic neighbors: The Pogues· Mumford & Sons· Flogging Molly