What makes Pardon Me by Incubus notable?

The album peaked at number two on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, solidifying Incubus's place in the alternative rock scene. Its lead single, 'Pardon Me,' received significant radio play and critical acclaim, further propelling the band's popularity during the early 2000s. In 2000, Incubus was transitioning from their earlier underground success to mainstream recognition. 'Pardon Me' marked a significant moment as their major label debut, following the release of their 1999 album 'The Crow Left of the Murder...'. This pivotal release introduced a wider audience to their eclectic sound and lyrical depth.

How many songs are on Pardon Me?

Pardon Me has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Pardon Me

Incubus · 2000

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, merging alternative rock with funk-infused grooves.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Pardon Me — This track not only served as the album's lead single but encapsulated the band's signature blend of melodic hooks and introspective themes, addressing self-reflection and societal expectations.
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I Miss You (acoustic) — The acoustic version highlights an emotional vulnerability that contrasts with the rest of the album, showcasing the band's versatility and ability to evoke deep feelings through stripped-down arrangements.
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Crowded Elevator — With its extended runtime, this track explores a more experimental side of Incubus, featuring intricate instrumental sections that build tension and showcase their musicianship.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The single showcases dynamic songwriting and a blend of styles, marking Incubus's transition to mainstream success.

What we noticed

The second track, 'I Miss You (acoustic)', strips down the instrumentation to highlight the vocal delivery and lyrical content.
The final track, 'Crowded Elevator', incorporates funk elements with a steady groove, contrasting with the more introspective tone of the first two tracks.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked Incubus's major label debut, establishing their mainstream recognition.
Moods: Melancholy· Introspective
Career context: In 2000, Incubus was transitioning from their earlier underground success to mainstream recognition. 'Pardon Me' marked a significant moment as their major label debut, following the release of their 1999 album 'The Crow Left of the Murder...'. This pivotal release introduced a wider audience to their eclectic sound and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Deftones· Faith No More· Red Hot Chili Peppers