Moth cover

Released 10 years ago

Moth

Chairlift · 2016

40 min · 10 tracks · synth-pop

Ethereal synth textures intertwine with catchy melodies, creating an immersive soundscape that feels both playful and introspective.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Ch-Ching — This track exemplifies the album's playful yet sharp critique of consumer culture, blending catchy hooks with infectious rhythms that invite listeners to dance.
  • →
    Crying in Public — With its poignant lyrics and lush instrumentation, this song captures the intimate vulnerability that runs throughout 'Moth,' representing a pivotal emotional moment on the album.
  • →
    Moth to the Flame — The title track encapsulates the overarching themes of attraction and danger, featuring haunting vocals that linger long after the song ends.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends catchy melodies with ethereal textures, showcasing growth while maintaining a cohesive sound.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a bright, upbeat tempo, while the following tracks introduce more introspective themes and slower tempos.
  • Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Crying in Public' and 'Moth to the Flame'.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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 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

  • steady pacing with gradual resolution
  • playful melodies for light moments
  • introspective themes for reflection
  • vibrant soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2016, 'Moth' was Chairlift's third studio album and marked a significant departure from their earlier work. Following the commercial success of their previous album 'Something,' the duo expanded their sonic palette, experimenting with new production techniques and deeper lyrical themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Chvrches· Passion Pit· M83

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Look Up 2:14
  • 2 Polymorphing 4:43
  • 3 Romeo 3:08
  • 4 Ch-Ching 3:47
  • 5 Crying in Public 4:28
  • 6 Ottawa to Osaka 4:55
  • 7 Moth to the Flame 2:57
  • 8 Show U Off 3:32
  • 9 Unfinished Business 4:33
  • 10 No Such Thing as Illusion 6:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata