Only Revolutions cover

Only Revolutions

Biffy Clyro · 2009

42 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

Euphoric melodies intertwine with raw emotional depth, creating anthems that oscillate between explosive energy and introspective reflection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Captain Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Mountains — This track became an anthem for its soaring chorus and uplifting lyrics, embodying the album's themes of resilience and hope.
  • →
    Many of Horror — A poignant ballad that showcases the band's emotional range, this song was later covered by numerous artists, reflecting its broad appeal.
  • →
    God & Satan — This track stands out for its juxtaposition of heavy instrumentation with existential lyrics, illustrating Biffy Clyro’s unique blend of aggression and introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic and introspective moments but has some uneven pacing in its latter half.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks employ dynamic shifts, moving from quiet verses to powerful choruses, creating a sense of contrast.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for a reflective conclusion to the album.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • short, impactful listening sessions
  • introspective late-night vibes
  • uplifting anthemic moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Signaled Biffy Clyro's rise to prominence in indie rock, debuting at number one.
Themes
emotional resilience· Scottish landscapes· intimate balladry
Career context
Released as Biffy Clyro's fifth studio album, 'Only Revolutions' marked a significant breakthrough for the band after their previous album, 'Puzzle', achieved major commercial success. This record solidified their presence in the mainstream, showcasing a more polished sound while retaining their signature intensity.
Stylistic neighbors
Arcane Roots· Enter Shikari· You Me at Six

Tracklist

  • 1 The Captain Start here 3:43
  • 2 That Golden Rule 3:49
  • 3 Bubbles 5:01
  • 4 God & Satan 3:09
  • 5 Born on a Horse 2:49
  • 6 Mountains 3:21
  • 7 Shock Shock 3:03
  • 8 Many of Horror 4:18
  • 9 Booooom, Blast & Ruin 3:16
  • 10 Cloud of Stink 2:55
  • 11 Know Your Quarry 3:29
  • 12 Whorses 3:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata