What makes Mainstream by Lloyd Cole and the Commotions notable?

'Mainstream' reached number 15 on the UK Albums Chart and included the hit single 'Jennifer She Said', which received significant airplay. The album is noted for its blend of sophisticated pop and rock, influencing subsequent artists in the alternative and indie rock scenes. Released on October 26, 1987, 'Mainstream' was Lloyd Cole and the Commotions' third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort 'Easy Pieces'. At this point, the band was solidifying its identity in the post-punk landscape, moving towards a more polished sound while maintaining lyrical depth.

How many songs are on Mainstream?

Mainstream has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 39 years ago this October

Mainstream

Lloyd Cole and the Commotions · 1987

40 min · 10 tracks · rock music

A blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, capturing the bittersweet essence of late '80s rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Jennifer She Said — This track showcases Cole's knack for catchy melodies paired with sharp lyrical observations about relationships, making it a standout hit from the album.
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From the Hip — The song's upbeat tempo and engaging hooks encapsulate the band's ability to merge commercial appeal with thoughtful lyrics, representing their signature style.
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Mister Malcontent — This track dives into themes of disillusionment and social commentary, highlighting Cole's literary lyrical approach while remaining musically accessible.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics creates a cohesive yet varied listening experience.

What we noticed

Lyrically, the songs often employ a conversational style, with narratives that reflect personal and societal themes.
The pacing varies, with mid-tempo tracks dominating but interspersed with slower ballads that provide moments of reflection.

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

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.

Tracklist

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

1 My Bag 3:56
2 From the Hip 3:57
3 29 5:28
4 Mainstream 3:14
5 Jennifer She Said 3:02
6 Mister Malcontent 4:49
7 Sean Penn Blues 3:28
8 Big Snake 5:16
9 Hey Rusty 4:30
10 These Days 2:27

What to play next

Listen next

1984 - 1989

1989

Go back to

Easy Pieces

1985

Full Lloyd Cole and the Commotions discography Artists like Lloyd Cole and the Commotions

rock music

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