Reformation Post TLC cover

Reformation Post TLC

The Fall · 2007

61 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A chaotic blend of punk energy and experimental rock, layered with sardonic lyrics and abrupt shifts in tempo.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Reformation! — This title track captures the album's thematic essence, showcasing Smith’s sharp critique of contemporary society through fragmented narratives and abrasive soundscapes.
  • →
    Over! Over! — Opening with a frenetic pace, this track sets an immediate tone of disarray, reflecting the album’s exploration of chaos in modern life.
  • →
    Systematic Abuse — With its lengthy structure and repetitive motifs, this song delves into themes of societal oppression, making it one of the more thought-provoking pieces on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

55 /100
Foothills
Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album's chaotic energy and sardonic lyrics reflect The Fall's distinctive style, though it lacks some cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The album features abrupt tempo shifts, with tracks like 'Over! Over!' and 'Reformation!' starting with high energy before dropping to slower, more contemplative pieces.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside traditional singing, creating a varied vocal texture throughout the record.
  • The lyrics often employ sardonic humor, with a focus on social commentary that complements the chaotic instrumentation.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • wave-like pacing experiences
  • layered, dense sonic textures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2007, Reformation Post TLC was The Fall's 27th studio album, marking a period of prolific output for the band. It arrived after a series of lineup changes that had solidified Mark E. Smith's role as the band's sole constant member, showcasing his distinctive vision amidst shifting musical landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors
Wire· Gang of Four· The Birthday Party

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Over! Over! 4:04
  • 2 Reformation! 6:58
  • 3 Fall Sound 3:53
  • 4 White Line Fever 3:00
  • 5 Insult Song 5:40
  • 6 My Door Is Never 3:39
  • 7 Coach and Horses 1:48
  • 8 The Usher 1:17
  • 9 The Wright Stuff 5:47
  • 10 Scenario 3:24
  • 11 Das Boat 10:06
  • 12 The Bad Stuff 2:25
  • 13 Systematic Abuse 8:38
  • 14 Outro 0:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata