What makes Lanterns by Birds of Tokyo notable?

Lanterns debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart, solidifying Birds of Tokyo's status in the Australian music scene. The album was nominated for multiple awards, including Best Group at the 2014 ARIA Music Awards, highlighting its critical acclaim and impact. Released in 2013, Lanterns is Birds of Tokyo's fourth studio album, marking a significant evolution in their sound after the commercial success of their self-titled album. This record followed a period of lineup changes and showcased the band's artistic growth as they embraced a more polished production style.

How many songs are on Lanterns?

Lanterns has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Lanterns

Birds of Tokyo · 2013

3 min · 1 track · alternative rock

An uplifting blend of anthemic rock and introspective lyrics, layered with expansive melodies and soaring vocal harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lanterns — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of hope and resilience, featuring a powerful chorus that invites communal sing-alongs. Its rich instrumentation and emotive delivery make it both a standout moment and a defining statement for the band.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The track showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The track features a steady build-up, starting with soft instrumentation that gradually layers in more elements as it progresses.
Vocals are delivered with a soaring quality, often harmonizing with backing vocals to create a rich texture.
The song employs a repetitive chorus that emphasizes its central theme, making it memorable and singable.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established wider recognition with a number one debut on ARIA Albums Chart.
Themes: communal hope· personal resilience· expansive melodies
Career context: Released in 2013, Lanterns is Birds of Tokyo's fourth studio album, marking a significant evolution in their sound after the commercial success of their self-titled album. This record followed a period of lineup changes and showcased the band's artistic growth as they embraced a more polished production style.
Stylistic neighbors: The Temper Trap· Anberlin· Atlas Genius

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Lanterns

The bridge reveals a poignant shift in perspective, expressing vulnerability while embracing the light amidst darkness.

This moment contrasts earlier bravado in the song by exposing deeper emotional layers, effectively inviting listeners to reflect on their own struggles.