Mama, I'm Swollen (Bonus Tracks) cover

Mama, I'm Swollen (Bonus Tracks)

Cursive · 2009

19 min · 5 tracks · punk rock

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic punk elements with introspective lyrics, creating a compelling but uneven listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks maintain a driving tempo with layered guitar riffs, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective pace.
  • Several songs feature abrupt shifts in dynamics, alternating between quiet introspection and explosive choruses.
  • The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and personal anecdotes, creating a narrative thread that runs through the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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 All I Know 3:15
  • 2 Mama's Baggage 4:07
  • 3 I Couldn't Love You (demo, alternate lyrics) 3:04
  • 4 What Have I Done (demo, extra verse, alternate lyrics) 6:46
  • 5 In the Now (demo, alternate lyrics) 2:01

Reference: MusicBrainz