Scenery and Fish cover

Released 30 years ago

Scenery and Fish

I Mother Earth · 1996

63 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Eclectic alternative rock blends intricate musicianship with introspective lyrics, creating a vibrant tapestry of sound and emotion.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    One More Astronaut — The track features an expansive arrangement that showcases the band's ability to blend complex instrumentation with thought-provoking lyrics about existentialism.
  • →
    Like a Girl — This song stands out for its feminist themes and catchy hooks, making it both a radio-friendly single and an anthem of empowerment.
  • →
    Shortcut to Moncton — The lengthy composition highlights the band's adventurous spirit, merging progressive rock elements with rich storytelling, making it a journey through sound.
  • →
    Used to Be Alright — With its reflective lyrics and engaging melody, this track encapsulates the album's emotional core, exploring themes of nostalgia and change.

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 showcases varied structures and instrumentation but lacks a strong cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

  • Vocals often alternate between melodic singing and spoken word sections, adding variety to the delivery across the tracks.
  • Several songs incorporate extended instrumental sections that showcase the band's musicianship, particularly in guitar and percussion.
  • The final track is an ambient piece that gradually fades out, contrasting sharply with the more energetic songs that precede it.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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
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

  • introspective journeys through sound
  • eclectic shifts in mood
  • engaging narratives across tracks
  • inviting sing-along moments
  • thoughtful reflections on life

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification
  • seek straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1996, Scenery and Fish is I Mother Earth's second studio album, following their successful debut, Dig. This album marked a crucial moment as the band sought to solidify their identity in the Canadian rock scene, showcasing their evolving sound and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Our Lady Peace· The Tea Party· Silverchair

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Hello Dave! 0:48
  • 2 Like a Girl 4:39
  • 3 One More Astronaut 5:24
  • 4 Another Sunday 4:04
  • 5 Three Days Old 5:47
  • 6 Used to Be Alright 5:27
  • 7 Shortcut to Moncton 7:56
  • 8 Pisser 4:59
  • 9 Raspberry 5:44
  • 10 Songburst & Delirium 5:55
  • 11 Sense of Henry 5:16
  • 12 Earth, Sky & C. 7:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata