Honeysuckle Weeks cover

Honeysuckle Weeks

The Submarines · 2008

34 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

A dreamy blend of indie pop and rock, filled with whimsical melodies and introspective lyrics that invite contemplation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    You Me and the Bourgeoisie — This track stands out for its clever commentary on contemporary life and class struggle, encapsulating the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with insightful lyrics.
  • →
    1940 — With its nostalgic undertones and poignant storytelling, this song captures the album's emotional depth while showcasing the duo's harmonic interplay.
  • →
    The Wake Up Song — This track offers an uplifting yet reflective vibe that resonates with listeners, serving as an anthem for self-discovery and renewal within the album's narrative.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and varied arrangements but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a lush soundscape, while the fourth track introduces a more stripped-down arrangement with a focus on piano.
  • Several tracks incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'Swimming Pool,' which shifts from a slow build to an upbeat chorus.
  • The album closes with 'Brightest Hour,' which features an extended instrumental outro that gradually fades out, creating a sense of resolution.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • introspective lyrics with buoyancy
  • for casual afternoons
  • engaging melodies for sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced energy
  • seek deep emotional intensity

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on April 15, 2008, Honeysuckle Weeks is The Submarines' second studio album, following their debut, Declare a New State!, which established their signature sound. At this point in their career, the duo was beginning to carve out a niche in the indie rock scene, gaining recognition for their unique blend of catchy hooks and thoughtful songwriting.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Submarine Symphonika 3:49
  • 2 The Thorny Thicket 3:30
  • 3 You Me and the Bourgeoisie 3:22
  • 4 1940 3:08
  • 5 The Wake Up Song 4:02
  • 6 Swimming Pool 3:18
  • 7 Maybe 3:22
  • 8 Xavia 4:31
  • 9 Fern Beard 2:49
  • 10 Brightest Hour 2:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata