Science Fiction
Brand New · 2017
61 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock
A haunting blend of introspective lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation that challenges listeners with its complex emotional landscapes.
Top tracks — play these first
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Lit Me Up Start here — The opening track sets a tone of vulnerability and introspection, featuring layered instrumentation that captures the essence of the album's darker themes.
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Same Logic/Teeth — This track juxtaposes melodic sections with abrasive elements, illustrating a struggle between hope and despair that permeates the album.
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In the Water — With its sprawling arrangement and reflective lyrics, this song encapsulates the overarching themes of isolation and searching for meaning that define the record.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate songwriting and atmospheric production create a compelling yet challenging listen.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a slow build in 'Lit Me Up', layering atmospheric guitars and vocals that gradually increase in intensity.
- Several tracks feature abrupt shifts in dynamics, such as 'Same Logic/Teeth', which transitions from quiet introspection to a loud, chaotic climax.
- The lyrics often employ abstract imagery and existential themes, creating a complex narrative that requires attentive listening to unpack.
- The final track, 'Batter Up', concludes with a long instrumental outro that fades out, leaving an unresolved feeling.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- wave-like emotional fluctuations
- haunting introspection and exploration
- dynamic peaks and valleys
- long reflective listening sessions
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek standalone radio hits
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — This album is regarded as a high point in their artistic evolution and received widespread acclaim.
- Career context
- By the time 'Science Fiction' was released in 2017, Brand New had established themselves as influential figures in alternative rock, following their critically acclaimed album 'Daisy' from 2009. This album marked a significant return after an eight-year hiatus, showcasing a matured sound and lyrical depth that reflected the band's evolving artistry.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Taking Back Sunday· The Wonder Years· Dashboard Confessional
Tracklist
- 1 Lit Me Up Start here 6:16
- 2 Can't Get It Out 3:42
- 3 Waste 4:36
- 4 Could Never Be Heaven 3:16
- 5 Same Logic/Teeth 5:34
- 6 137 5:01
- 7 Out of Mana 5:14
- 8 In the Water 6:52
- 9 Desert 3:37
- 10 No Control 3:55
- 11 451 4:53
- 12 Batter Up 8:27
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Plans
Death Cab for Cutie
Both explore introspective themes with atmospheric instrumentation and emotional depth.
Sleep Well Beast
The National
Shares a haunting atmosphere and complex emotional landscapes, reflecting on personal struggles.
The Moon & Antarctica
Modest Mouse
Features introspective lyrics and a blend of atmospheric sounds that evoke searching for meaning.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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