Middletown cover

Middletown

July for Kings · 2015

43 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a haunting soundscape that reflects on personal and collective experiences.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Middletown — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of longing and reflection, combining vivid imagery with an evocative melody that lingers.
  • →
    Kite — This track showcases a delicate balance between vulnerability and hope, using soaring instrumentation that complements its introspective lyrics.
  • →
    Believe Me — With its driving rhythm and poignant lyrics, this song stands out as an anthem of self-affirmation amidst uncertainty, highlighting the band's lyrical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases thoughtful songwriting and emotional depth, though it may not stand out significantly in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that build gradually in intensity, while the second half shifts to more subdued and reflective pieces.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
  • The lyrics often employ metaphorical language, inviting listeners to engage with the themes on a deeper level.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Reeling

    In a pivotal moment, the narrative shifts from external observations to an intimate confrontation with inner turmoil.

    This transition emphasizes personal struggle through a more direct address, inviting listeners into a deeper emotional landscape.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Void 3:59
  • 2 Hole in the Universe 3:52
  • 3 Reeling 4:13
  • 4 Kite 4:34
  • 5 Orchid 2:55
  • 6 Middletown 3:26
  • 7 Feather 3:54
  • 8 Believe Me 3:50
  • 9 Climb 4:12
  • 10 Back to Life 4:13
  • 11 Tarantula 4:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata