"Pussy Cats" Starring the Walkmen cover

Released 20 years ago

"Pussy Cats" Starring the Walkmen

The Walkmen · 2006

39 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

A gritty blend of indie rock and vintage pop, steeped in a nostalgic yet raw energy.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Many Rivers to Cross — This opening track sets a reflective tone for the album, showcasing the band’s ability to infuse emotional depth into a cover while highlighting Hamilton Leithauser's haunting vocals.
  • →
    Subterranean Homesick Blues — Their rendition of this Bob Dylan classic emphasizes rhythmic precision and a garage-rock edge, making it a standout example of how The Walkmen reinterpret iconic songs.
  • →
    Old Forgotten Soldier — This track captures a poignant narrative through its lyrics and instrumental arrangement, demonstrating the band’s skill in marrying storytelling with their signature sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends covers with original material, creating a distinct sound while maintaining a cohesive energy.

What we noticed

  • Tracks often transition smoothly into one another, maintaining a consistent energy level throughout the record.
  • Several songs incorporate vintage instrumentation, such as horns and strings, which adds to the nostalgic feel without overshadowing the band's indie rock roots.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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, consistent energy levels
  • engaging storytelling throughout
  • mid-tempo reflective moments
  • playful and eclectic vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Pussy Cats' was released in 2006, The Walkmen had already established themselves with three studio albums, including their breakthrough 'Bows + Arrows' from 2004. This album marks a significant departure for the band, as they delve into covers of classic songs rather than original compositions, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment.
Stylistic neighbors
The National· Interpol· Franz Ferdinand

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Many Rivers to Cross 4:46
  • 2 Subterranean Homesick Blues 3:24
  • 3 Don't Forget Me 3:48
  • 4 All My Life 3:07
  • 5 Old Forgotten Soldier 4:34
  • 6 Save the Last Dance for Me 4:46
  • 7 Mucho Mungo / Mt. Elga 3:57
  • 8 Loop De Loop 3:45
  • 9 Black Sails 3:59
  • 10 Rock Around the Clock 3:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata