What makes Loma Vista by Family of the Year notable?

Loma Vista gained significant attention with its lead single 'Hero,' which became a commercial success and was featured in various media placements. The album received positive reviews from critics, marking a notable step in the band's career as they began to establish themselves within the indie rock scene. Released on July 10, 2012, Loma Vista is Family of the Year’s second studio album, following their self-titled debut in 2009. At this point, the band was transitioning from their initial indie rock sound towards a more polished and accessible style, which would help them reach a wider audience.

Who is Loma Vista for?

Loma Vista works well if you're into inviting melodies for reflection, short tracks for casual listening and uplifting tunes for sunny days.

How many songs are on Loma Vista?

Loma Vista has 11 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Loma Vista

Family of the Year · 2012

38 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

Blending folk-infused melodies with introspective lyrics, the album resonates through its heartfelt storytelling and vibrant instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hero — The track's catchy chorus and relatable themes of aspiration make it a standout, showcasing the band's knack for blending pop sensibilities with meaningful lyrics.
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Hey Ma — This song captures a poignant sense of nostalgia and longing, delivering a heartfelt message alongside an engaging melody that resonates with listeners.
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Diversity — With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, this track exemplifies the band's ability to tackle serious subjects while maintaining an uplifting sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk and rock with strong melodies but lacks a cohesive flow across its length.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that build in intensity, particularly in the choruses.
The instrumentation often shifts between acoustic and electric elements, creating a contrast that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.

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

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

inviting melodies for reflection
short tracks for casual listening
uplifting tunes for sunny days
introspective moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy intensity
prefer longer, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on July 10, 2012, Loma Vista is Family of the Year’s second studio album, following their self-titled debut in 2009. At this point, the band was transitioning from their initial indie rock sound towards a more polished and accessible style, which would help them reach a wider audience.
Stylistic neighbors: The Lumineers· Vance Joy· Of Monsters and Men