New Songs for Old Problems cover

New Songs for Old Problems

Middle Kids · 2019

21 min · 6 tracks

Melodic indie rock blends introspective lyrics with vibrant instrumentation, creating a reflective yet uplifting sonic landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Beliefs & Prayers — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its exploration of existential themes against an energetic backdrop, highlighting the band's knack for blending introspection with catchy melodies.
  • →
    Call Me Snowflake — The song critiques societal expectations and invokes self-empowerment through its playful yet pointed lyrics, making it a standout commentary on modern identity struggles.
  • →
    Big Softy — With its heartfelt vulnerability, this track encapsulates the album's emotional core, showcasing the band's ability to balance personal reflection with accessible pop sensibilities.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP blends introspective lyrics with vibrant instrumentation, showcasing solid songwriting and engaging dynamics.

What we noticed

  • The first track introduces a steady rhythm with layered guitar melodies that set a reflective tone.
  • Each song features a prominent chorus that contrasts with the more introspective verses, creating dynamic shifts in energy.
  • The final track employs a gradual build-up, culminating in an expansive instrumental section that leaves a lingering emotional impact.
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
5/10

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.

  • Needle

    A shift in perspective occurs when the narrator confronts internal conflicts directly, creating a sense of urgency and honesty in the writing.

    This direct confrontation contrasts with previous abstract moments in the album, emphasizing personal struggle and enhancing emotional depth.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Beliefs & Prayers 3:39
  • 2 Salt Eyes 3:29
  • 3 Needle 3:18
  • 4 Real Thing 3:10
  • 5 Call Me Snowflake 4:06
  • 6 Big Softy 4:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata