See How We Are
X · 1987
37 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A raw exploration of emotional turbulence layered over infectious punk rock melodies and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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4th of July — This track stands out for its poignant lyrics that capture a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet reflection, paired with an infectious melody that resonates deeply.
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See How We Are — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of disillusionment and resilience through its candid storytelling and compelling instrumentation.
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When It Rains... — With its haunting melody and emotionally charged lyrics, this track exemplifies the band's ability to convey vulnerability while maintaining their punk roots.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends punk energy with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong songwriting but uneven execution.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
- Several tracks feature dual vocals that create a call-and-response effect, enhancing the emotional intensity of the lyrics.
- The final track ends with a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of unresolved tension.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- steady mid-tempo emotional exploration
- gritty narratives of fractured relationships
- reflective moments for late nights
- short tracks for quick engagement
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party tracks
- preferring longer immersive albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'See How We Are' was released in 1987, X had already established themselves as a seminal punk band with a devoted following. This album came after their acclaimed records 'Wild Gift' and 'Under the Big Black Sun', showcasing a more mature sound while still retaining their edge. The release marked a transition as the band sought to evolve their musical identity amidst changing dynamics in the punk scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Stooges· Refused· Fugazi
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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I'm Lost
The moment shifts from an expression of confusion to a realization of self-awareness, utilizing vivid imagery to convey internal conflict.
This transition deepens the emotional impact by juxtaposing uncertainty with clarity, demonstrating the complexity of personal growth.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I'm Lost 2:56
- 2 You 3:30
- 3 4th of July 3:58
- 4 In the Time It Takes 3:10
- 5 Anyone Can Fill Your Shoes 2:47
- 6 See How We Are 3:47
- 7 Left & Right 2:58
- 8 When It Rains... 4:29
- 9 Holiday Story 3:36
- 10 Surprise Surprise 2:53
- 11 Cyrano de Berger's Back 3:33
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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