Several Arrows Later cover

Several Arrows Later

Matt Pond PA · 2005

48 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics envelops listeners in a bittersweet soundscape of indie rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    So Much Trouble — This track features poignant lyrics paired with a memorable melody that exemplifies the album's overall emotional depth, encapsulating feelings of vulnerability.
  • →
    Several Arrows Later — The title track stands out for its intricate instrumentation and reflective lyrics, serving as a centerpiece that captures the album's thematic essence.
  • →
    City Song — With its vibrant imagery and engaging rhythm, this song highlights the urban experience while maintaining the contemplative tone characteristic of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album's orchestral depth and lyrical introspection create a compelling indie rock experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features lush orchestral arrangements that complement the introspective lyrics, creating a rich sonic texture.
  • Tracks often shift dynamics, with several songs beginning softly and building to more intense climaxes before tapering off.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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
7/10

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 melodies for reflection
  • evening strolls with headphones
  • gentle pacing for calm moments
  • explorative themes of nature
  • thoughtful lyrics for deep listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy engagement
  • prefer straightforward, catchy tunes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified Matt Pond PA's reputation within the indie rock scene.
Career context
By the time 'Several Arrows Later' was released in 2005, Matt Pond PA had already established themselves with several albums, including 'The Green Fury' from 2001. This album marked a crucial step in their evolution, showcasing more sophisticated production techniques and deeper emotional resonance as they began to capture a broader audience.
Stylistic neighbors
The Paper Kites· Iron & Wine· Sufjan Stevens

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Halloween 5:02
  • 2 So Much Trouble 3:58
  • 3 The Trees and the Wild 2:48
  • 4 Several Arrows Later 3:34
  • 5 It Is Safe 4:58
  • 6 Emblems 3:28
  • 7 City Song 4:12
  • 8 From Debris 4:31
  • 9 Brooklyn Stars 3:49
  • 10 The Moviegoer 3:12
  • 11 Spring Provides 3:21
  • 12 Devil in the Water 5:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata