Top tracks — play these first
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Dorothy at Forty — This track features a compelling narrative about nostalgia and disillusionment, showcasing Cursive's ability to weave personal stories into broader societal critiques.
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Bad Science — With its sharp commentary on societal norms and expectations, this song captures the band's signature blend of wit and emotional depth that defines the album.
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Hymns for the Heathen — As a closing track, it encapsulates the album's themes of introspection and rebellion while delivering an anthemic resolution that resonates with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases dynamic songwriting and varied instrumentation but lacks a strong cohesive flow.
What we noticed
- Many songs incorporate unconventional song structures, often eschewing traditional verse-chorus formats in favor of narrative-driven progressions.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
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
- steady mid-tempo reflective energy
- narrative-driven suburban introspection
- short tracks for quick engagement
- sing-along moments with friends
- consistent flow for focused listening
Maybe skip if you
- seeking immediate gratification
- prefer longer, sprawling albums
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its storytelling and eclectic sound, though not the most accessible.
- Career context
- Released on August 22, 2006, 'Happy Hollow' marked Cursive's fifth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record 'The Ugly Organ'. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their identity within the emo and post-hardcore scenes, showcasing both lyrical depth and musical experimentation as they navigated the complexities of adulthood.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Appleseed Cast· Bright Eyes· Taking Back Sunday
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Opening the Hymnal / Babies 2:32
- 2 Dorothy at Forty 3:02
- 3 Big Bang 3:56
- 4 Bad Sects 3:39
- 5 Flag and Family 2:56
- 6 Dorothy Dreams of Tornados 2:54
- 7 Retreat! 3:57
- 8 The Sunks 2:53
- 9 At Conception 2:57
- 10 So‐So Gigolo 3:43
- 11 Bad Science 2:40
- 12 Into the Fold 4:16
- 13 Rise Up! Rise Up! 3:22
- 14 Hymns for the Heathen 2:39
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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