What makes Simple Forms by The Naked and Famous notable?

Simple Forms received positive critical reception, showcasing the band's continued relevance in the synth-pop genre. It debuted at number four on the New Zealand Albums Chart, reaffirming their strong fan base and commercial viability since their earlier successes. Released in early 2016, Simple Forms marked The Naked and Famous' return after a three-year hiatus following their album In Rolling Waves. The band aimed to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their signature synth-pop sound, reflecting their growth as artists during this period of relative silence.

Who is Simple Forms for?

Simple Forms works well if you're into steady mid-tempo listening experience, nostalgic vibes for reflection and optimistic anthems for uplifting moments.

How many songs are on Simple Forms?

Simple Forms has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Simple Forms

The Naked and Famous · 2016

40 min · 10 tracks · synth-pop

Euphoric synth melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an atmosphere that feels both expansive and intimate.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Higher — The opening track sets an uplifting tone with its soaring melodies and vibrant production, encapsulating the album's overall energy and ambition.
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The Water Beneath You — This track features introspective lyrics paired with driving beats, showcasing the band's ability to blend emotional depth with catchy hooks.
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Last Forever — With its anthemic chorus and reflective themes, this song exemplifies the balance between euphoric soundscapes and poignant storytelling that characterizes the album.
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Rotten — Closing the album, this track offers a darker, more contemplative tone that contrasts with earlier songs, highlighting the band's range and artistic evolution.

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 balances energetic synth-pop with introspective moments, though its cohesion suffers from pacing shifts.

What we noticed

The first three tracks build momentum with driving beats and layered synths, while the fourth introduces a slower tempo that shifts the album's energy.
Several tracks feature vocal harmonies that create a lush soundscape, particularly in 'Backslide' and 'Laid Low'.
The last two tracks incorporate more introspective lyrics and subdued instrumentation, contrasting with the earlier euphoric sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady mid-tempo listening experience
nostalgic vibes for reflection
optimistic anthems for uplifting moments
background music for social gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer chaotic, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 2016, Simple Forms marked The Naked and Famous' return after a three-year hiatus following their album In Rolling Waves. The band aimed to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their signature synth-pop sound, reflecting their growth as artists during this period of relative silence.
Stylistic neighbors: Chvrches· Passion Pit· M83