Revenge of the Goldfish cover

Revenge of the Goldfish

Inspiral Carpets · 1992

46 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Psychedelic grooves and swirling organ melodies merge with jangly guitars to create an infectious alternative rock sound.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Generations Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Saviour — This track stands out as a defining anthem of the Madchester scene with its catchy hooks and vibrant instrumentation, showcasing the band's ability to blend rock with dance elements.
  • →
    Bitches Brew — Named after the Miles Davis classic, this song exemplifies the band's adventurous spirit, merging eclectic sounds with a driving rhythm that invites listeners into their unique sonic landscape.
  • →
    Here Comes the Flood — This track demonstrates a more introspective side of the band, combining haunting lyrics with atmospheric instrumentation that sets it apart from their more upbeat offerings.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album features strong melodies and a cohesive psychedelic sound, though it doesn't fully stand out in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a driving rhythm and layered organ melodies that set a psychedelic tone, which is maintained throughout the first half.
  • Tracks often feature jangly guitars that interweave with the organ, creating a dense but melodic soundscape.
  • Several songs incorporate tempo shifts, such as 'Saviour', which contrasts its upbeat verses with a more subdued chorus.
  • The final track, 'Irresistible Force', closes the album with an extended instrumental section that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering atmosphere.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 5/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • vibrant energy for gatherings
  • playful melodies for sing-alongs
  • headphone detail with layers
  • nostalgic vibes from the 90s

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced tracks
  • seek deep introspection

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established wider recognition with its innovative sound and hit single 'Saviour'.
Themes
Madchester scene· psychedelic grooves· dance-infused rock
Career context
Released in January 1992, 'Revenge of the Goldfish' was Inspiral Carpets' second studio album, following their well-received debut, 'Life'. At this point, the band was solidifying their presence in the burgeoning Madchester scene, characterized by a blend of alternative rock and dance music influences.
Stylistic neighbors
The Charlatans· Happy Mondays· Oasis

Tracklist

  • 1 Generations Start here 2:48
  • 2 Saviour 3:59
  • 3 Bitches Brew 3:50
  • 4 Smoking Her Clothes 4:19
  • 5 Fire 3:35
  • 6 Here Comes the Flood 4:16
  • 7 Dragging Me Down 4:31
  • 8 A Little Disappeared 2:59
  • 9 Two Worlds Collide 4:38
  • 10 Mystery 3:16
  • 11 Rain Song 4:41
  • 12 Irresistible Force 3:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata