What makes Langford by Payolas notable?

The album received significant attention in Canada, peaking on various charts and leading to a resurgence of interest in the band. Its politically charged lyrics and contemporary production resonated with listeners, helping it gain critical acclaim and solidifying the band's relevance in the modern alternative rock landscape. Additionally, 'Langford' is often cited for its exploration of themes relevant to Canadian identity and social issues. By the time 'Langford' was released in 2007, Payolas were experiencing a creative resurgence after their initial success in the 1980s. This album marked their first release in over a decade, showcasing a shift towards more mature themes while maintaining their distinctive sound. It followed a period of lineup changes and a redefined artistic vision as they re-entered the music scene.

How many songs are on Langford?

Langford has 7 tracks, running approximately 26 minutes.

Langford

Payolas · 2007

26 min · 7 tracks · alternative rock

A gritty blend of alternative rock infused with sharp political commentary and introspective lyrics that resonate with urgency.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bomb — Opening with driving rhythms and urgent vocals, 'Bomb' captures the album's political edge while introducing the listener to its thematic concerns.
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We Are Failing — 'We Are Failing' presents a poignant critique of societal neglect, blending melodic hooks with a raw emotional delivery that highlights the band's lyrical depth.
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Goodbye to Rock 'n' Roll — This track stands out for its nostalgic yet defiant tone, reflecting on the evolution of rock music and the band's place within it.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that would elevate its distinctiveness.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a driving tempo with aggressive guitar riffs and urgent vocals, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective pace.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that emphasize the political themes in the lyrics, particularly in 'We Are Failing'.
The album closes with 'Revolution Jam-Up', which incorporates a jam-style outro that contrasts with the structured nature of earlier songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Revolution

The chorus shifts dramatically from hopeful calls for change to stark realizations of ongoing struggles, creating a powerful contrast.

This transition emphasizes the tension between aspiration and reality, effectively mirroring the complexities of social activism.

Tracklist

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

1 Bomb 3:10
2 Revolution 3:25
3 Phone Hell 5:58
4 We Are Failing 3:47
5 At the Angel's Feet 4:18
6 Goodbye to Rock 'n' Roll 3:00
7 Revolution Jam-Up 2:52

What to play next

Go back to

Between a Rock and a Hyde Place – The Best of Payola$

1987

Full Payolas discography Artists like Payolas

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata