Released 10 years ago
Mangy Love
Cass McCombs · 2016
59 min · 12 tracks · indie rock
A kaleidoscopic blend of folk, rock, and pop that weaves surreal narratives through lush instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Rancid Girl — This track captures a poignant mix of melancholy and humor, showcasing McCombs' lyrical wit alongside an infectious melody.
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Low Flyin' Bird — With its laid-back vibe and reflective lyrics, this song encapsulates the album's exploration of freedom and introspection.
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Run Sister Run — This track stands out for its driving rhythm and empowering message, blending elements of folk with a sense of urgency that resonates throughout.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's unique storytelling and eclectic sound create a distinct listening experience.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more contemplative feel.
- Several tracks employ unconventional song structures, such as extended instrumental sections and abrupt shifts in dynamics.
- The lyrics often present surreal imagery and narratives that require active engagement from the listener to unpack their meaning.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- steady pacing for reflective moments
- introspective lyrics for deep thinking
- consistent flow with emotional peaks
- lo-fi melodies for cozy ambiance
- sprawling tapestry for immersive listening
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2016, Mangy Love is Cass McCombs' sixth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 2013 release Big Wheel and Others. At this point in his career, McCombs was refining his eclectic sound while continuing to develop his songwriting prowess, establishing himself as a distinctive voice within the indie music landscape.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Iron & Wine· Sufjan Stevens· Fleet Foxes
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Bum Bum Bum 4:59
- 2 Rancid Girl 4:22
- 3 Laughter Is the Best Medicine 5:18
- 4 Opposite House 4:14
- 5 Medusa's Outhouse 4:55
- 6 Low Flyin' Bird 6:01
- 7 Cry 4:45
- 8 Run Sister Run 5:51
- 9 In a Chinese Alley 3:15
- 10 It 5:11
- 11 Switch 4:14
- 12 I'm a Shoe 6:06
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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