Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The song's introspective lyrics and anthemic structure create a compelling exploration of stagnation.

What we noticed

• — The song features a steady mid-tempo beat with layered guitar riffs that create a gritty texture.
• — Brandon Flowers' vocals alternate between soft, introspective verses and a more anthemic chorus, emphasizing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
• — The arrangement includes a gradual build-up, culminating in a powerful instrumental section before returning to the final chorus.

How the number is built

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

5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score

6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score

8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

The Suburbs

Arcade Fire

Explores themes of disillusionment and nostalgia with layered instrumentation and lyrical depth.

Strangers to Ourselves

Modest Mouse

Shares a gritty exploration of modern life with anthemic melodies and introspective lyrics.

Kintsugi

Death Cab for Cutie

Focuses on personal stagnation and emotional introspection, wrapped in a lush sonic palette.