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.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short, immersive listening sessions
introspective emotional exploration
gradual builds and payoffs
late-night contemplative moods

Where this album fits

Career 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: Biffy Clyro· The Maccabees· We Are Scientists

New to Idlewild? Find your way in →

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 3:28
3 Paint Nothing 3:12
4 When I Argue I See Shapes 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 3:15
12 Low Light 5:32

What to play next

Listen next

100 Broken Windows

2000

Go back to

A Film for the Future

Full Idlewild discography Where to start with Idlewild Artists like Idlewild

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata