What makes Retreat from the Sun by That Dog notable?

Retreat from the Sun received positive reviews for its clever songwriting and catchy melodies, solidifying That Dog's reputation within the 90s alternative rock landscape. The album's lead single, I'm Gonna See You, gained airplay on alternative radio, contributing to the band's growing fanbase. Released in 1997, Retreat from the Sun marked That Dog's third studio album during a time when they were establishing their presence in the alternative rock scene. Following their well-received previous albums, this record aimed to further refine their sound and lyrical depth, showcasing a maturation in both musical and thematic content.

How many songs are on Retreat from the Sun?

Retreat from the Sun has 13 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Retreat from the Sun

That Dog · 1997

46 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the uncertainties of youth and relationships.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I'm Gonna See You — This track serves as a powerful opening with infectious hooks and a blend of melancholy and optimism, perfectly setting the tone for the album.
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Retreat From the Sun — The title track encapsulates themes of reflection and vulnerability against a backdrop of rich instrumentation, making it a standout moment in the collection.
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Every Time I Try — With its poignant exploration of repeated attempts at connection, this song showcases the band's ability to blend emotional depth with melodic allure.

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 balances catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing solid songwriting but lacks a strong cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with jangly guitars, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
The lyrics often explore personal relationships and uncertainties, with a conversational tone that invites listener engagement.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 I’m Gonna See You 4:15
2 Never Say Never 3:16
3 Being With You 3:47
4 Gagged and Tied 3:18
5 Retreat From the Sun 3:39
6 Minneapolis 3:50
7 Annie 3:40
8 Every Time I Try 4:28
9 Long Island 2:36
10 Hawthorne 2:36
11 Did You Ever 3:07
12 Cowboy Hat 3:51
13 Until the Day I Die 4:17

What to play next

Listen next

Old LP

2019

Go back to

Totally Crushed Out!

1995

Full That Dog discography Artists like That Dog

alternative rock

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