Is Paper Empire a good place to start with Better Than Ezra?

Yes, Paper Empire is recommended as a starting point for new Better Than Ezra listeners. Melodic alternative rock intertwines introspective lyrics with vibrant instrumentation, creating an engaging sonic tapestry throughout the album. By the time 'Paper Empire' was released in 2009, Better Than Ezra had already established themselves in the alternative rock scene with earlier hits like 'Good' and 'Desperately Wanting'. This album marked their return after a five-year hiatus since their previous release, 'Before the Robots', showcasing a blend of mature songwriting and varied musical influences as they navigated changes in the music industry.

Who is Paper Empire for?

Paper Empire works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective vibes, for evening unwinding and melodic hooks for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Paper Empire?

Paper Empire has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Paper Empire

Better Than Ezra · 2009

47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Melodic alternative rock intertwines introspective lyrics with vibrant instrumentation, creating an engaging sonic tapestry throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Absolutely Still Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its reflective lyrics and catchy melody, encapsulating the themes of longing and self-discovery.
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Hell No! — With its upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus, this track embodies a sense of defiance and empowerment, standing out as one of the more energetic moments on the album.
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Wounded — This poignant closing track showcases emotional depth through its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, leaving a lasting impression as the album concludes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and layered instrumentation, while the fourth track shifts to a more subdued tone with a focus on vocals.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the interaction between the lead singer and backing vocals.
The album closes with a gradual deceleration in tempo, allowing for a reflective finish that contrasts with the earlier energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 reflective vibes
for evening unwinding
melodic hooks for sing-alongs
thoughtful lyrics for introspection
consistent flow throughout listening

Maybe skip if you

need for fast-paced energy
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid catalog entry that showcases the band's established sound without being a standout.
Themes: self-discovery journey· post-hiatus reflection· emotional resilience
Career context: By the time 'Paper Empire' was released in 2009, Better Than Ezra had already established themselves in the alternative rock scene with earlier hits like 'Good' and 'Desperately Wanting'. This album marked their return after a five-year hiatus since their previous release, 'Before the Robots', showcasing a blend of mature songwriting and varied musical influences as they navigated changes in the music industry.
Stylistic neighbors: Toad the Wet Sprocket· Gin Blossoms· Counting Crows

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Wounded

The narrative shifts from personal pain to an acknowledgment of growth and healing through vivid imagery of light and shadows.

This transition not only highlights a journey from despair to hope but also emphasizes the album's overarching theme of resilience amidst life's struggles.