Perhaps
The Associates · 1985
55 min · 10 tracks · post-punk
A kaleidoscopic blend of post-punk energy and introspective lyrics set against eclectic arrangements.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Those First Impressions — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its vibrant instrumentation and introspective lyrics, establishing a theme of nostalgia that resonates throughout.
-
→
Perhaps — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's emotional core, featuring haunting melodies that explore themes of uncertainty and longing.
-
→
The Stranger in Your Voice — This track stands out for its dynamic vocal delivery and intricate arrangements, highlighting the band's ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic arrangements and unconventional structures contribute to its distinctiveness within post-punk.
What we noticed
- The album features abrupt shifts in tempo and dynamics, with tracks like 'Helicopter Helicopter' contrasting sharply with the slower 'Thirteen Feelings'.
- Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, such as extended instrumental sections and unexpected key changes.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- kaleidoscopic arrangements with depth
- introspective lyrics that resonate
- patient unfolding of musical ideas
- energetic bursts amidst reflection
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, catchy tunes
- want instant gratification from music
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1985, Perhaps was The Associates' third studio album, following their critically acclaimed record Sulk. This album marked a period of experimentation for the band as they sought to redefine their sound amidst changing musical landscapes, showcasing a more polished production compared to their earlier, rawer works.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bauhaus· The Cure· Siouxsie and the Banshees
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Perhaps
The chorus introduces a pivotal shift in perspective, moving from reflective verses to an urgent plea for clarity.
This shift not only emphasizes the song's emotional weight but also serves as a structural anchor that contrasts uncertainty with a desire for resolution.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Those First Impressions 4:43
- 2 Waiting for the Loveboat 6:56
- 3 Perhaps 6:33
- 4 Schampout 6:03
- 5 Helicopter Helicopter 4:08
- 6 Breakfast 5:33
- 7 Thirteen Feelings 4:39
- 8 The Stranger in Your Voice 6:17
- 9 The Best of You 5:37
- 10 Don't Give Me That I Told You So Look 5:13
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.