What makes Matters by Pulley notable?

Matters received positive reviews from critics, emphasizing its energetic intensity and lyrical depth. The album's reception helped reaffirm Pulley's status in the hardcore punk genre, particularly as they navigated a post-millennial landscape where many bands struggled to maintain relevance. Released in January 2004, Matters is Pulley's fourth studio album and follows their 2001 release, Together Again for the First Time. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their presence in the hardcore punk scene, maintaining a steady output that showcased their signature sound while continuing to attract a dedicated fanbase.

Matters works well if you're into short, energetic listening bursts, immediate hooks and energy and front-loaded intensity.

How many songs are on Matters?

Matters has 12 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Matters

Pulley · 2004

33 min · 12 tracks · hardcore punk

A relentless barrage of fast-paced riffs and raw vocals encapsulates the urgency of hardcore punk while exploring personal and social themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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A Bad Reputation — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its aggressive tempo and rebellious lyrics, embodying the spirit of defiance central to hardcore punk.
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Immune — The standout track showcases dynamic shifts in energy, blending melodic elements with intense instrumentation to create a compelling narrative about resilience.
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Looking Back — This song reflects on past experiences with a sense of urgency and nostalgia, illustrating the band's ability to weave personal storytelling into high-energy music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album delivers intense hardcore punk energy but lacks standout compositions and depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track that sets a relentless tempo, maintaining high energy through the first half.
Each song typically features aggressive guitar riffs paired with shouted vocals, creating a uniform intensity across the tracks.
Several tracks incorporate brief melodic interludes that contrast with the otherwise unyielding pace, providing slight moments of respite.
The last three tracks slow down slightly in tempo, allowing for a more reflective tone before concluding.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short, energetic listening bursts
immediate hooks and energy
front-loaded intensity
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 2004, Matters is Pulley's fourth studio album and follows their 2001 release, Together Again for the First Time. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their presence in the hardcore punk scene, maintaining a steady output that showcased their signature sound while continuing to attract a dedicated fanbase.
Stylistic neighbors: Strung Out· No Use for a Name· Lagwagon