Released 20 years ago
It's Never Been Like That
Phoenix · 2006
36 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
Uplifting synth lines and breezy melodies create an infectious atmosphere that defines modern indie pop.
Top tracks — play these first
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Long Distance Call — This track showcases the album's signature blend of infectious melodies and upbeat rhythms, encapsulating the essence of Phoenix's sound during this era.
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Napoleon Says — Opening the album with a punchy beat and catchy chorus, this song sets the tone for the lively and energetic vibe that permeates throughout the record.
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Consolation Prizes — With its shimmering synths and reflective lyrics, this track demonstrates Phoenix's ability to balance danceable energy with introspective themes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album balances infectious melodies with varied pacing, creating an engaging yet cohesive experience.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature driving rhythms and layered synths that create a consistent upbeat energy.
- Several songs incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the interactive feel of the album.
- The last two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, providing a reflective contrast to the earlier material.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short, engaging listening sessions
- energetic and catchy hooks
- upbeat and lively atmosphere
- dynamic emotional shifts
- conversational background music
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2006, It's Never Been Like That was Phoenix's third studio album, following the international success of their breakthrough album, Alphabetical. The band was solidifying their sound as a leader in the French pop-rock scene at this point, blending electronic elements with catchy hooks.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Napoleon Says 3:13
- 2 Consolation Prizes 3:16
- 3 Rally 3:17
- 4 Long Distance Call 3:04
- 5 One Time Too Many 3:40
- 6 Lost and Found 2:56
- 7 Courtesy Laughs 3:14
- 8 North 5:01
- 9 Sometimes in the Fall 5:49
- 10 Second to None 3:25
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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