Side Effects cover

Side Effects

Mads Langer · 2014

22 min · 5 tracks · pop music

Mads Langer intertwines atmospheric pop melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a reflective soundscape that invites deep emotional engagement.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Bringing Back Tomorrow — This opening track sets the tone of the EP with its infectious chorus and poignant reflection on hope and renewal, embodying Langer's signature style.
  • →
    Chasing Comets — A catchy yet contemplative track that blends upbeat instrumentals with introspective lyrics about fleeting moments, showcasing Langer's knack for balancing depth with accessibility.
  • →
    Side Effects — The title track delves into the complexities of relationships and emotional turmoil, delivered through haunting melodies that linger long after the song ends.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that would elevate its distinctiveness.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the final two tracks introduce a slower tempo and more complex arrangements.
  • The lyrics often explore themes of introspection and personal struggle, with a narrative style that invites listener engagement.
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
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Strangers

    The bridge shifts from addressing a lost connection to reflecting on personal growth and acceptance.

    This pivot not only marks a key emotional climax but also reveals a deeper layer of vulnerability that contrasts with earlier verses.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Bringing Back Tomorrow 3:49
  • 2 Chasing Comets 2:49
  • 3 Strangers 4:21
  • 4 Side Effects 6:51
  • 5 Fact-Fiction / Silverflame (Mash-up) 4:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata