Information Retrieved cover

Released 14 years ago this October

Information Retrieved

Pinback · 2012

38 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

Melodic indie rock weaves intricate guitar lines with layered harmonies, creating a reflective and atmospheric soundscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Proceed to Memory — The opening track sets a contemplative tone with its lush melodies and intricate guitar interplay, encapsulating the band’s signature style.
  • →
    Glide — This track features a captivating blend of rhythmic complexity and lyrical introspection, showcasing the band's ability to balance catchy hooks with deeper themes.
  • →
    True North — With its driving rhythm and evocative lyrics, this song exemplifies the emotional resonance that defines much of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album features intricate compositions and a cohesive sound, though it doesn't significantly impact the broader music landscape.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a track that features intricate guitar lines layered over soft vocals, establishing a reflective tone.
  • The last three tracks gradually decrease in tempo and intensity, allowing for a contemplative conclusion to the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • reflective moments of quiet introspection
  • melodic layers that invite contemplation
  • short tracks for focused listening
  • gentle grooves for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy party vibes
  • seek immediate musical gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on October 16, 2012, 'Information Retrieved' is Pinback's fifth studio album, coming after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, 'Autumn of the Seraphs'. This release marked a return to the band's distinctive sound, characterized by their complex arrangements and melodic songwriting.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Proceed to Memory 3:51
  • 2 Glide 3:58
  • 3 Drawstring 3:44
  • 4 Sherman 3:36
  • 5 His Phase 3:17
  • 6 Diminished 3:53
  • 7 True North 3:54
  • 8 A Request 3:55
  • 9 Denslow, You Idiot! 2:59
  • 10 Sediment 4:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata