What makes Man Alive by Everything Everything notable?

Man Alive received critical acclaim, landing on multiple year-end lists and earning a nomination for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2010. Its innovative sound and lyrical depth positioned Everything Everything as key players in the UK's burgeoning art rock movement. Released in January 2010, Man Alive was Everything Everything's debut album, marking their emergence into the UK music scene. Building on early online buzz, the band showcased a distinct sound that blended various genres, setting the stage for their future success.

Who is Man Alive for?

Man Alive works well if you're into steady mid-tempo progression, youthful energy for exploration and introspective lyrics with pulse.

How many songs are on Man Alive?

Man Alive has 12 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Man Alive

Everything Everything · 2010

52 min · 12 tracks · art rock

A vibrant fusion of art rock and electronic elements, characterized by intricate melodies and socially charged lyrics.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
MY KZ, UR BF — This track exemplifies the band's unique blend of catchy hooks and complex arrangements while addressing themes of youth culture and modern relationships.
→
Qwerty Finger — With its driving beat and witty lyrics, this track captures the essence of digital communication's impact on personal connections, showcasing the band's clever songwriting.
→
Photoshop Handsome — This song critiques societal standards of beauty through its satirical lyrics and infectious rhythms, highlighting the band's ability to tackle serious topics with a playful tone.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and a unique blend of genres, making it distinctive within its context.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a frenetic pace, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
Each song features complex arrangements with layered instrumentation, often blending electronic elements with traditional rock instruments.
Lyrically, the tracks frequently address contemporary social issues, using abstract and metaphorical language that invites deeper analysis.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo progression
youthful energy for exploration
introspective lyrics with pulse
engaging sing-along moments

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 2010, Man Alive was Everything Everything's debut album, marking their emergence into the UK music scene. Building on early online buzz, the band showcased a distinct sound that blended various genres, setting the stage for their future success.
Stylistic neighbors: alt-J· Foals· Glass Animals