Top tracks — play these first
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We Built This City — This track serves as a rallying cry for artists against commercialization in music, combining catchy melodies with a critical message about the changing landscape of rock.
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Sara — 'Sara' showcases the band’s softer side with emotional depth, becoming one of their most recognizable ballads and a staple on adult contemporary radio.
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Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter Tonight — The upbeat tempo and motivational lyrics highlight a carefree attitude that resonates with listeners seeking escapism during a turbulent decade.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures the polished sound of its era with notable hits but lacks depth for lasting engagement.
What we noticed
- The first two tracks are both chart-topping singles, establishing a strong pop-rock foundation for the album.
- The album features a consistent use of synthesizers and electric guitars, creating a polished sound typical of mid-'80s new wave.
- Several tracks employ layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing their radio-friendly appeal.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- 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
- steady melodic journeys
- reflective evening listening
- emotional lyrical connections
- anthemic sing-along moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on September 10, 1985, Knee Deep in the Hoopla marked Starship's commercial peak following their 1985 rebranding from Jefferson Starship. This album came after the success of their hit 'We Built This City,' solidifying their transition into a more mainstream, pop-oriented sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Journey· Foreigner· REO Speedwagon
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 We Built This City 4:53
- 2 Sara 4:48
- 3 Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter Tonight 3:41
- 4 Rock Myself to Sleep 3:24
- 5 Desperate Heart 4:04
- 6 Private Room 4:51
- 7 Before I Go 5:11
- 8 Hearts of the World (Will Understand) 4:21
- 9 Love Rusts 4:57
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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