What makes Hit & Run by Sloan notable?

Hit & Run received positive reviews from critics, noted for its succinct song lengths and catchy compositions. The album showcased Sloan's ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound, influencing a wave of indie bands embracing shorter track formats. Released in 2009, Hit & Run is Sloan's seventh studio album, following their critically acclaimed album Never Hear the End of It (2007). At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation in the Canadian music scene while experimenting with a more concise songwriting approach.

Who is Hit & Run for?

Hit & Run works well if you're into quick bursts of catchy energy, for short listening breaks and sing-along anthems with friends.

How many songs are on Hit & Run?

Hit & Run has 5 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Hit & Run

Sloan · 2009

13 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

An energetic blend of power pop hooks and alternative rock dynamics, balancing introspective lyrics with catchy melodies.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Take It Upon Yourself — This opening track establishes the album's energetic tone with its infectious chorus and anthemic feel, encapsulating the band's power pop essence.
→
Midnight Mass — Clocking in at just over two minutes, this track exemplifies Sloan's knack for delivering impactful melodies within brief song structures, making it a standout moment on the album.
→
Oh Dear Diary — The reflective lyrics combined with a catchy melody highlight the band's lyrical maturity, presenting a more personal side amidst the upbeat instrumentals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and energetic performances but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

Each track is under four minutes, contributing to a brisk overall pace that keeps the energy high.
The first two tracks feature prominent guitar riffs that establish a power pop sound before shifting to more introspective themes in the latter half.
Vocals are shared among band members, with harmonies often layering over the lead lines, creating a dynamic vocal texture.

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

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

quick bursts of catchy energy
for short listening breaks
sing-along anthems with friends
playful irreverence in every track

Maybe skip if you

prefer long, immersive experiences
seek deep, introspective narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2009, Hit & Run is Sloan's seventh studio album, following their critically acclaimed album Never Hear the End of It (2007). At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation in the Canadian music scene while experimenting with a more concise songwriting approach.
Stylistic neighbors: Big Star· The Posies· Matthew Sweet