What makes Pray for It by July Talk notable?

Pray for It received critical acclaim, showcasing a more polished production approach while retaining the band's signature grit. The album's lead single 'Governess Shadow' resonated with listeners, contributing to the band's further recognition within the Canadian music scene and beyond. Released on July 10, 2020, Pray for It is July Talk's third studio album, following their acclaimed 2016 release Touch. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique sound and expanding their audience, having already established a reputation for dynamic performances and rich storytelling through their music.

Who is Pray for It for?

Pray for It works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, emotionally charged lyrical introspection and raw energy for late nights.

How many songs are on Pray for It?

Pray for It has 11 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Pray for It

July Talk · 2020

42 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A raw blend of punk blues and alternative rock that pulsates with urgency and emotional intensity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Governess Shadow — This track exemplifies the album's thematic exploration of personal struggle and societal critique, featuring haunting melodies that highlight the contrast between vulnerability and strength.
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Pay for It — 'Pay for It' captures a relentless drive with its infectious energy, blending sharp lyricism with an anthemic chorus that resonates deeply with listeners.
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Good Enough — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, encapsulating the album's overarching themes of self-acceptance and interpersonal relationships.

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 while showcasing strong vocal dynamics and production quality.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks that maintain a driving tempo, while the second half introduces more reflective and slower pieces.
Vocals are often shared between male and female singers, creating a dynamic interplay that shifts the emotional weight throughout the songs.
Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes, particularly transitioning from verses to choruses, which adds to the urgency of the sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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 moments
emotionally charged lyrical introspection
raw energy for late nights
engaging storytelling throughout tracks

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek purely upbeat party vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on July 10, 2020, Pray for It is July Talk's third studio album, following their acclaimed 2016 release Touch. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique sound and expanding their audience, having already established a reputation for dynamic performances and rich storytelling through their music.
Stylistic neighbors: Death from Above 1979· The Kills· Yeah Yeah Yeahs