What makes Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever by The Cribs notable?

Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever received critical acclaim and debuted at number 5 on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying The Cribs' place in the indie rock scene. The album was praised for its lyrical depth and was included in numerous year-end lists, highlighting its impact on the genre during that period. Released on May 21, 2007, this third studio album marked a significant moment in The Cribs' career as they transitioned from underground favorites to mainstream recognition. Following their second album, 'The New Fellas', the band collaborated with renowned producer Alex Kapranos of Franz Ferdinand, seeking to refine their sound while retaining their punk roots.

Who is Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever for?

Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever works well if you're into raw energy for youthful disillusionment, an anthemic sing-along experience and steady pacing for focused listening.

How many songs are on Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever?

Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever has 12 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever

The Cribs · 2007

42 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

Energetic guitar riffs and raw vocals collide with introspective lyrics, embodying the spirit of mid-2000s indie rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Men’s Needs — This title track encapsulates the band's blend of catchy melodies and incisive commentary on gender dynamics, making it a standout anthem of the album.
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I’m a Realist — With its driving rhythm and relatable lyrics about disillusionment, this track showcases The Cribs' ability to fuse punk energy with introspective themes.
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Be Safe — As the album's closer, this track features a more contemplative tone and expansive soundscapes, contrasting sharply with the earlier tracks and providing emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album captures mid-2000s indie rock with energetic instrumentation and thoughtful lyrics, though it lacks some cohesion.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track that sets a high energy level, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
Several tracks feature dual vocal lines, allowing for a dynamic interplay between the lead singers that enhances the lyrical themes.
The use of distorted guitar riffs is prominent throughout, creating a raw sound that complements the introspective nature of the lyrics.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

raw energy for youthful disillusionment
an anthemic sing-along experience
steady pacing for focused listening
quick bursts of catchy hooks

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective tracks
seek long, immersive pieces

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked the transition to mainstream recognition for The Cribs.
Career context: Released on May 21, 2007, this third studio album marked a significant moment in The Cribs' career as they transitioned from underground favorites to mainstream recognition. Following their second album, 'The New Fellas', the band collaborated with renowned producer Alex Kapranos of Franz Ferdinand, seeking to refine their sound while retaining their punk roots.
Stylistic neighbors: The Libertines· Franz Ferdinand· The Futureheads