What makes Hungry Bird by Clem Snide notable?

Upon its release, 'Hungry Bird' received positive critical acclaim, particularly from outlets like NPR and Pitchfork, highlighting its lyrical depth and sonic diversity. The album further solidified Clem Snide's position within the indie music scene, drawing attention for its introspective themes and intricate arrangements. By the time 'Hungry Bird' was released in 2009, Clem Snide was already well-established, having gained recognition with previous albums like 'End of Love' in 2005. This album marked a return after a three-year hiatus, showcasing a matured sound while retaining their signature alternative country and indie rock influences.

Who is Hungry Bird for?

Hungry Bird works well if you're into wistful melodies for introspection, late-night personal reflections and thoughtful storytelling through songs.

How many songs are on Hungry Bird?

Hungry Bird has 15 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Hungry Bird

Clem Snide · 2009

58 min · 15 tracks · indie rock

A blend of wistful melodies and introspective lyrics that traverse the landscape of personal reflection and emotional honesty.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Born a Man — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of identity and masculinity through its poignant storytelling and layered instrumentation.
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Hum — With its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, this song captures the essence of longing and contemplation that permeates the album.
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Pray — The lengthy build-up in this track showcases a departure from conventional structures, creating an immersive experience that highlights the band's artistic growth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth but lacks a cohesive flow across its length.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of soft, finger-picked guitar patterns that create a reflective atmosphere throughout.
Many tracks employ a narrative style in the lyrics, often telling stories or painting vivid imagery over the music.
Several songs incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'Encounter at 3 AM', which shifts from a slow build to a more urgent pace.
The final track, 'South American Lullaby', closes the album with a gentle, soothing melody that contrasts with some of the more intense lyrical themes earlier.

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: 5/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

wistful melodies for introspection
late-night personal reflections
thoughtful storytelling through songs
gentle pacing for contemplation
emotional honesty in each track

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Hungry Bird' was released in 2009, Clem Snide was already well-established, having gained recognition with previous albums like 'End of Love' in 2005. This album marked a return after a three-year hiatus, showcasing a matured sound while retaining their signature alternative country and indie rock influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· The Decemberists

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Born a Man

The narrative voice questions societal expectations while expressing vulnerability in an intimate confession about personal struggles.

This moment breaks from traditional masculine tropes by openly confronting fears and insecurities, setting a tone of sincerity throughout the album.