What makes Major Arcana by Speedy Ortiz notable?

This album received widespread critical acclaim, featuring prominently in year-end lists from major outlets like NPR and Pitchfork. It positioned Speedy Ortiz as key players in the resurgence of grunge-influenced indie rock, inspiring a new wave of artists drawn to raw, emotive songwriting. Major Arcana is Speedy Ortiz's debut album, released in 2013 after they gained attention with early EPs. The band was establishing their presence in the indie rock scene, building on a foundation of influences from 90s alternative music while carving out a distinct sound.

How many songs are on Major Arcana?

Major Arcana has 10 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Major Arcana

Speedy Ortiz · 2013

34 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of noise pop and grunge, marked by sharp lyrics and dynamic instrumentation that captures youthful angst.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Pioneer Spine — The opening track sets a confident tone with its infectious riffs and introspective lyrics, showcasing the band's knack for blending catchy melodies with emotional depth.
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Tiger Tank — This song exemplifies the band's ability to weave humor into darker themes, with clever wordplay and an energetic arrangement that encapsulates their signature style.
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No Below — With its layered instrumentation and poignant exploration of vulnerability, this track stands out as a highlight of lyrical introspection amid the album's noise-pop framework.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album combines sharp lyrics with dynamic instrumentation, capturing youthful angst effectively.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace with layered guitars, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more introspective tone.
Lyrics often employ sharp, witty imagery that reflects personal and social themes, enhancing the emotional weight of the music.
Several tracks utilize dynamic shifts in instrumentation, moving from quiet verses to explosive choruses, creating a sense of tension and release.

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: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.