What makes Hope Is Important by Idlewild notable?

The album received critical acclaim upon release, particularly for its lyrical depth and energetic sound, contributing to the rise of the Scottish indie rock movement of the late 90s. It helped Idlewild secure a place in the UK charts, peaking at number 28 on the UK Albums Chart, and laid the groundwork for their future developments. Hope Is Important was Idlewild's debut album, released in January 1998. At this point, the band was still establishing its identity in the alternative rock scene, following their formation in 1995 and a handful of early EPs. This album marked their first major label release, setting the stage for their subsequent success.

Who is Hope Is Important for?

Hope Is Important works well if you're into short, immersive listening sessions, introspective emotional exploration and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Hope Is Important?

Hope Is Important has 12 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Hope Is Important

Idlewild · 1998

35 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Raw and emotive, the album blends jagged guitar riffs with introspective lyrics and a distinctive Scottish vocal delivery.

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Why this album works

The album received critical acclaim upon release, particularly for its lyrical depth and energetic sound, contributing to the rise of the Scottish indie rock movement of the late 90s. It helped Idlewild secure a place in the UK charts, peaking at number 28 on the UK Albums Chart, and laid the groundwork for their future developments.

Best for: short, immersive listening sessions introspective emotional exploration gradual builds and payoffs
Context: Hope Is Important was Idlewild's debut album, released in January 1998. At this point, the band was still establishing its identity in the alternative rock scene, following their formation in 1995 and a handful of early EPs. This album marked their first major label release, setting the stage for their subsequent success.
Stylistic neighbors: Splean· Bi-2· Blur

Tracklist

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

1 You've Lost Your Way 1:30
2 A Film for the Future Standout 3:28
3 Paint Nothing 3:12
4 When I Argue I See Shapes Standout 4:26
5 4 People Do Good 2:00
6 I'm Happy to Be Here Tonight 3:11
7 Everyone Says You're So Fragile 2:18
8 I'm a Message 2:28
9 You Don't Have the Heart 2:08
10 Close the Door 2:20
11 Safe and Sound Standout 3:15
12 Low Light 5:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

Listen next

100 Broken Windows

2000

Go back to

A Film for the Future

Full Idlewild discography Artists like Idlewild

alternative rock