Right Between the Promises cover

Right Between the Promises

Freedy Johnston · 2001

38 min · 10 tracks · power pop

Melodic power pop intertwines reflective storytelling with jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that resonate deeply.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Broken Mirror — Opening with an infectious melody and poignant lyrics, this track sets the tone for the album’s exploration of self-reflection and personal struggles.
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    Radio for Heartache — A standout for its catchy chorus and relatable theme of longing, this song encapsulates Johnston's knack for blending heartbreak with uplifting melodies.
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    That's Alright With Me — This track showcases Johnston’s ability to balance irony with sincerity, employing clever wordplay while maintaining a laid-back vibe that resonates throughout the album.
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    Save Yourself City Girl — With vivid imagery and a narrative quality, this song illustrates Johnston's strength in storytelling through music, making it a compelling centerpiece of the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • melodic warmth for introspection
  • emotional resonance in daily life
  • evocative lyrics with relatable themes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy quick hits
  • seek experimental sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2001, Right Between the Promises marked Freedy Johnston's fifth studio album, following the commercial success of his breakthrough record, Can You Fly. At this point, Johnston was establishing himself as a staple in the power pop genre, building on his previous acclaim while experimenting with more mature themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Matthew Sweet· Juliana Hatfield· The Posies

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Anyone

    The shift from questioning to acceptance creates a poignant turn in this song, expressing vulnerability amidst uncertainty about relationships.

    This moment highlights a transition in tone that deepens the emotional impact, moving from doubt to a resigned understanding of love's complexities.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Broken Mirror 2:39
  • 2 Waste Your Time 3:55
  • 3 Love Grows 2:28
  • 4 That's Alright With Me 4:57
  • 5 Radio for Heartache 2:37
  • 6 Back to My Machine 5:05
  • 7 Arriving on a Train 4:20
  • 8 Save Yourself City Girl 3:49
  • 9 Anyone 3:45
  • 10 In My Dream 4:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata