What makes It's Real by Ex Hex notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, landing on various year-end lists and further establishing Ex Hex as a significant force in the contemporary rock scene. Its catchy hooks and dynamic instrumentation contributed to its standout presence at festivals and on college radio charts. It's Real marks Ex Hex's sophomore album, following their acclaimed debut Rips from 2014. By this point, the band had solidified their lineup and sound, embracing a more polished production while remaining true to their spirited roots in indie rock.

How many songs are on It's Real?

It's Real has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

It's Real

Ex Hex · 2019

39 min · 10 tracks

A vibrant blend of garage rock and power pop that bursts with infectious energy and sharp guitar riffs.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tough Enough — This opening track sets the tone with its punchy rhythm and empowering lyrics, encapsulating the band's ethos of resilience and independence.
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Good Times — With its upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus, this song embodies the carefree spirit of summer, making it an anthem for joyous moments.
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Want It to Be True — This track showcases the band's knack for blending melancholy themes with bright melodies, illustrating their depth beyond mere surface-level pop.
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Rainbow Shiner — The shimmering guitar work and catchy hooks make this track a highlight, reflecting the band's ability to create vibrant soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

It's Real showcases strong melodies and energetic performances, solidifying Ex Hex's place in contemporary rock.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a high-energy tempo with driving guitar riffs and upbeat rhythms, establishing the album's vibrant tone.
Several songs feature layered harmonies that complement the lead vocals, enhancing the melodic hooks throughout the record.
The album includes moments of dynamic shifts, such as 'No Reflection,' which introduces a slower, more introspective section before returning to the energetic pace.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Want It to Be True

The shift in perspective as the narrator confronts disillusionment directly reveals a deeper emotional landscape amidst catchy melodies.

This moment contrasts the album's generally upbeat vibe, grounding it by introducing complexity through introspective lyricism.

Tracklist

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

1 Tough Enough 4:38
2 Rainbow Shiner 3:35
3 Good Times 2:54
4 Want It to Be True 5:14
5 Diamond Drive 3:42
6 No Reflection 3:29
7 Another Dimension 5:31
8 Cosmic Cave 3:00
9 Radiate 3:53
10 Talk to Me 3:16

What to play next

Go back to

Rips

2014

Full Ex Hex discography Artists like Ex Hex

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata