Number Zero with a Bullet cover

Number Zero with a Bullet

David Dondero · 2010

41 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

A reflective tapestry of folk-infused indie rock, weaving personal narratives with a sense of longing and introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Jesus From 12 to 6 — This track opens the album with a poignant reflection on faith and modern life, establishing the contemplative tone that permeates throughout.
  • →
    # Zero With a Bullet — The title track encapsulates Dondero's signature blend of wit and pathos, exploring themes of identity and vulnerability in a rapidly changing world.
  • →
    Job Boss — In this track, Dondero tackles themes of labor and personal struggle with sharp lyrical insight, making it relatable to listeners facing similar challenges.
  • →
    All the Fishies Swimmin’ Through My Head — This song stands out for its surreal imagery and whimsical approach, highlighting Dondero’s ability to infuse humor into deeper existential reflections.

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 album showcases strong narratives and varied pacing but lacks a cohesive flow throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of acoustic guitar as the primary instrument, with layered vocals that often harmonize in the choruses.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, creating a narrative style that enhances the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
  • The pacing varies significantly; tracks like 'Jesus From 12 to 6' and '# Zero With a Bullet' maintain an upbeat tempo, while others slow down to create reflective moments.
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 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

  • steady mid-tempo storytelling flow
  • reflective moments of life observations
  • narrative arcs that unfold gradually
  • for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2010, David Dondero had established himself as a distinctive voice in the indie rock scene, releasing Number Zero with a Bullet as his fifth studio album. This release followed his previous work, 2006's Simple Love, marking a continued evolution in his songwriting and thematic exploration. The album further solidified his reputation as an influential storyteller within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Jason Molina· Iron & Wine· Sufjan Stevens

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Jesus From 12 to 6 3:52
  • 2 Caught the Song 2:27
  • 3 Just a Baby in Your Momma’s Eyes 3:48
  • 4 # Zero With a Bullet 3:59
  • 5 It’s Peaceful Here 6:02
  • 6 Carolina Moon 3:20
  • 7 Wherever You Go 5:55
  • 8 Don’t Be Eyeballin’ My Po’Boy, Boy 4:25
  • 9 Job Boss 3:25
  • 10 All the Fishies Swimmin’ Through My Head 4:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata