Paper Empire
Better Than Ezra · 2009
47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock
Melodic alternative rock infused with reflective lyrics and a polished production aesthetic.
Why this album works
'Paper Empire' received favorable reviews and demonstrated Better Than Ezra's continued relevance in alternative rock, peaking at number 30 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums chart. This album marked a creative resurgence for the band, reestablishing them within a genre that had evolved significantly since their earlier successes in the 1990s.
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo reflective vibes for evening unwinding melodic hooks for sing-alongs
- Context
- Released on May 12, 2009, 'Paper Empire' is Better Than Ezra's fifth studio album, following their 2005 release, 'Before the Robots.' At this point in their career, the band was attempting to revive their presence in the music scene after a period of relative quiet and lineup changes. The album showcased their ability to blend catchy hooks with introspective songwriting.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Beck· Green Day· Moby· Linkin Park· Nine Inch Nails· R.E.M.· Tori Amos· Sonic Youth
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Absolutely Still Standout 3:58
- 2 Turn Up the Bright Lights Standout 3:38
- 3 Just One Day 4:02
- 4 The Loveless 4:24
- 5 All In 3:28
- 6 Fit 3:56
- 7 Hell No! Standout 3:04
- 8 Hey Love 4:19
- 9 Nightclubbing 3:24
- 10 Black Light 3:33
- 11 Wounded 4:41
- 12 I Just Knew 4:47
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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