What makes Hourglass by Squeeze notable?

Hourglass reached number 43 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing Squeeze's continued relevance in the new wave scene despite a shifting musical landscape. The title track gained notable airplay and has been highlighted for its introspective lyrics, which resonated with listeners during a time of social change. Released in January 1987, Hourglass was Squeeze's seventh studio album and marked a critical moment in their career as they were transitioning from mainstream success in the early 80s to a more experimental sound. This album followed the commercial disappointment of their previous release, Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti, and reflected their efforts to redefine their artistic direction.

How many songs are on Hourglass?

Hourglass has 3 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Hourglass

Squeeze · 1987

9 min · 3 tracks · new wave

Bright melodies intertwine with sharp lyrical wit, capturing the essence of late 80s new wave pop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hourglass — The title track stands out for its catchy chorus and poignant exploration of time's relentless passage, encapsulating the album's thematic core.
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Wedding Bells — This song features clever wordplay and a playful melody that reflects Squeeze's hallmark wit while addressing themes of love and relationships.
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Splitting Into Three — With its upbeat tempo and intricate arrangements, this track exemplifies the band's ability to blend complex lyrics with an infectious sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and clever lyrics but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent synthesizer line that drives the melody, while the verses employ a syncopated rhythm that contrasts with the chorus.
Each song has a distinct structure, with 'Wedding Bells' incorporating a bridge that shifts the mood before returning to the main theme.
The final track, 'Splitting Into Three', utilizes layered harmonies and a dynamic shift in instrumentation, creating a sense of resolution.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Represents a solid entry in their catalog, not widely recognized but appreciated by fans.
Themes: passing time reflections· witty love observations· quirky musical experimentation
Career context: Released in January 1987, Hourglass was Squeeze's seventh studio album and marked a critical moment in their career as they were transitioning from mainstream success in the early 80s to a more experimental sound. This album followed the commercial disappointment of their previous release, Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti, and reflected their efforts to redefine their artistic direction.
Stylistic neighbors: XTC· The Buggles· Devo