What makes Home of the Strange by Young the Giant notable?

The album debuted at number 28 on the Billboard 200 chart and received positive reviews for its exploration of cultural identity, particularly addressing the immigrant experience in America. It has been noted for its influence on discussions around diversity in music and representation within the alternative rock genre. Home of the Strange is Young the Giant's third studio album, following their 2014 release, Mind Over Matter. At this point in their career, the band was transitioning towards deeper lyrical themes while maintaining their signature sound. This album marks a critical moment as they began to explore complex social issues alongside their personal narratives.

Who is Home of the Strange for?

Home of the Strange works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective flow, introspective themes of identity and suitable for thoughtful group listens.

How many songs are on Home of the Strange?

Home of the Strange has 11 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Home of the Strange

Young the Giant · 2016

39 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock and introspective lyrics, capturing the struggles of identity and belonging in a multicultural landscape.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Amerika — This opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its energetic beat and poignant commentary on American culture and identity.
→
Something to Believe In — This song encapsulates the search for hope and meaning, showcasing the band's ability to blend uplifting melodies with introspective lyrics.
→
Home of the Strange — The title track poignantly addresses themes of belonging and alienation, serving as a powerful anthem for those navigating their identities.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album blends vibrant rhythms with introspective themes, showcasing solid writing and varied pacing.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong rhythmic pulse in 'Amerika', setting a driving tempo that persists through the first half.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in 'Silvertongue' and 'Something to Believe In', creating a rich texture.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for introspection and emotional release as the album concludes.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective flow
introspective themes of identity
suitable for thoughtful group listens
engaging sing-alongs with friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Home of the Strange is Young the Giant's third studio album, following their 2014 release, Mind Over Matter. At this point in their career, the band was transitioning towards deeper lyrical themes while maintaining their signature sound. This album marks a critical moment as they began to explore complex social issues alongside their personal narratives.
Stylistic neighbors: Foster the People· Vampire Weekend· Passion Pit