What makes Hysterical by Clap Your Hands Say Yeah notable?

Hysterical received positive reviews from several prominent music publications, indicating a continued relevance in the indie rock scene. The album debuted at number 21 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, showcasing its commercial impact despite being released during a time when the band's visibility had waned since their earlier successes. Released on September 20, 2011, Hysterical is Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's third studio album, following their self-titled debut in 2005 and the sophomore effort, Some Loud Thunder, in 2007. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the challenges of maintaining their unique sound while also expanding their musical palette after an initial wave of success.

Who is Hysterical for?

Hysterical works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Hysterical?

Hysterical has 14 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Hysterical

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah · 2011

54 min · 14 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant blend of indie rock melodies layered with introspective lyrics and a playful, experimental spirit.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Hysterical — The title track encapsulates the album's emotional core through its pulsating rhythm and reflective lyrics about existential anxiety. Its upbeat tempo contrasts with introspective themes, making it a standout representation of the album's overall vibe.
→
Into Your Alien Arms — This track showcases the band's willingness to experiment with soundscapes and melodies, blending haunting vocals with rich instrumentation that creates an otherworldly atmosphere. It highlights a more ambitious side of their songwriting.
→
Misspent Youth — Capturing a sense of nostalgia and regret, this song features clever lyrical twists and an infectious chorus that exemplifies the band's knack for melding introspection with catchy hooks. It resonates as a relatable anthem for many listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album features engaging melodies and layered instrumentation but lacks standout moments that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving rhythm in 'Same Mistake', maintaining an upbeat tempo for the first half before shifting to more introspective tracks like 'In a Motel'.
The lyrics often explore themes of disconnection and introspection, with a playful delivery that contrasts the more serious subject matter.

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

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
introspective late-night vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on September 20, 2011, Hysterical is Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's third studio album, following their self-titled debut in 2005 and the sophomore effort, Some Loud Thunder, in 2007. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the challenges of maintaining their unique sound while also expanding their musical palette after an initial wave of success.
Stylistic neighbors: The National· Arcade Fire· Vampire Weekend