What makes Ignite the Seven Cannons by Felt notable?

This album is notable for its influence on the indie rock genre, particularly through its seamless blend of jangle pop and art rock elements. Critics praised it for its sophisticated production and lyrical depth, making it a significant entry in Felt's discography and earning them a devoted following. Released in January 1985, Ignite the Seven Cannons was Felt’s fifth album and marked a pivotal moment in the band's evolution. By this time, they had cultivated a unique sound characterized by lush instrumentation and thoughtful lyricism, establishing themselves as key figures in the alternative rock scene of the UK.

How many songs are on Ignite the Seven Cannons?

Ignite the Seven Cannons has 11 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Ignite the Seven Cannons

Felt · 1985

36 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Melodic post-punk textures intertwine with introspective lyrics and an ethereal atmosphere, creating a distinctive sonic landscape.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Primitive Painters — The track features an unforgettable guitar hook and showcases the collaboration with Liz Fraser of Cocteau Twins, blending dreamy vocals with intricate melodies.
→
My Darkest Light Will Shine — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its reflective lyrics and hauntingly beautiful arrangement, encapsulating the album's overarching themes of introspection.
→
Scarlet Servants — This song stands out for its evocative imagery and rhythmic complexity, showcasing Felt's ability to marry lyrical sophistication with compelling musicality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of melodic textures and introspective lyrics creates a distinct sound within its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature intricate guitar melodies layered over steady drum patterns, establishing a melodic foundation.
The album includes several instrumental interludes that create atmospheric transitions between songs.
Lyrical themes of introspection and existential contemplation are prevalent, with the vocals often delivered in a subdued manner.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Tracklist

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

1 My Darkest Light Will Shine 2:56
2 The Day the Rain Came Down 2:31
3 Scarlet Servants 3:39
4 I Don't Know Which Way to Turn 2:46
5 Primitive Painters 6:02
6 Textile Ranch 3:02
7 Black Ship in the Harbour 3:01
8 Elegance 5:22
9 Serpent Shade 2:10
10 Caspian See 2:03
11 Southern State Tapestry 3:13

What to play next

Listen next

Let the Snakes Crinkle Their Heads to Death

1986

Go back to

The Strange Idols Pattern and Other Short Stories

1984

Full Felt discography Artists like Felt

alternative rock new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata