Live and Let Live
10cc · 1977
90 min · 15 tracks · rock music
A whimsical blend of art pop and progressive rock, layered with intricate harmonies and satirical storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
The Second Sitting for the Last Supper Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
-
→
I'm Not in Love — This track features lush harmonies and a groundbreaking use of multitracking that illustrates the band's innovative approach to pop music. Its introspective lyrics about unrequited love stand out amidst its dreamy production.
-
→
Art for Art's Sake — With its catchy chorus and clever commentary on the art world, this track exemplifies the band's knack for blending satire with accessibility. The seamless transitions between musical sections showcase their progressive rock influences.
-
→
The Things We Do for Love — This song captures the essence of romantic devotion through its relatable lyrics and memorable melody, marking it as one of the band's most enduring hits. It effectively combines soft rock sensibilities with thoughtful songwriting.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases innovative songwriting and production, though its cohesion is somewhat affected by the varied styles.
What we noticed
- Several tracks employ unconventional song structures, such as 'The Second Sitting for the Last Supper', which shifts between multiple musical themes.
- 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
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
- witty lyrics for thoughtful engagement
- cathartic moments through lush harmonies
- for reflective late nights
- eclectic textures for deep listening
Maybe skip if you
- prefer short, straightforward tracks
- seeking instant gratification only
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Solidifies 10cc's reputation with innovative songwriting and unique sound.
- Themes
- art world satire· dreamy love longing· whimsical storytelling
- Career context
- By 1977, 10cc was at a pivotal point in their career with the release of 'Live and Let Live', their fourth studio album. This album followed their commercial peak with the hit single 'I’m Not in Love' from the previous year, showcasing their ability to blend complex arrangements with mainstream appeal.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Supertramp· Electric Light Orchestra· Steely Dan
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 The Second Sitting for the Last Supper Start here 5:22
- 2 You’ve Got a Cold 3:57
- 3 Honeymoon With B Troop 3:56
- 4 Art for Art’s Sake 7:14
- 5 People in Love 4:11
- 6 The Wall Street Shuffle 4:12
- 7 Ships Don't Disappear in the Night (Do They?) 7:33
- 8 I’m Mandy Fly Me 6:03
- 9 Marriage Bureau Rendezvous 4:19
Disc 2
- 1 Good Morning Judge 3:10
- 2 Feel the Benefit 13:35
- 3 The Things We Do for Love 3:49
- 4 Waterfall 7:48
- 5 I’m Not in Love 6:59
- 6 Modern Man Blues 8:03
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Skylarking
XTC
Shares whimsical storytelling and intricate arrangements with a blend of art pop and progressive rock.
Odessey and Oracle
The Zombies
Features lush harmonies and dreamy themes, similar to the satirical and whimsical nature of 10cc's work.
Crime of the Century
Supertramp
Combines art rock sensibilities with layered arrangements and lyrical depth, echoing 10cc's complexity.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.