Mary cover

Released 22 years ago this October

Mary

Scissor Sisters · 2004

13 min · 2 tracks · electronic music

A vibrant blend of disco beats and glam rock flair, pulsing with a euphoric energy that demands movement.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Mary — This title track features an infectious chorus and a blend of playful lyrics that highlight themes of love and desire, encapsulating the band's signature flamboyance.
  • →
    Mary (Junkie XL mix) — The remix enhances the original's dancefloor appeal while introducing a heavier electronic sound, showcasing the versatility of the track and its adaptability for club play.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100
Lowland
Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid production but lacks depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

  • The main track features a steady four-on-the-floor beat with layered synths that create a lush soundscape.
  • The Junkie XL mix introduces a faster tempo and additional electronic elements, transforming the original into a more energetic dance track.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established the band's reputation following their debut, showcasing their sound and reach.
Themes
disco revival· club culture· flamboyant love
Career context
Released in 2004, 'Mary' marked the Scissor Sisters' first single after their self-titled debut album, which had catapulted them to international fame. By this time, they were solidifying their status as leaders in the electroclash scene, leveraging their unique sound and flamboyant aesthetics to capture mainstream attention.
Stylistic neighbors
Lady Gaga· Dua Lipa· Empire of the Sun

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Mary

    The moment shifts from playful flirtation to a more profound yearning as it explores deeper emotional connections.

    This transition adds layers to the narrative, moving beyond surface-level attraction to reveal vulnerability within the upbeat framework.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Mary 4:45
  • 2 Mary (Junkie XL mix) 8:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata