What makes Simple Science by The Get Up Kids notable?

Simple Science was well-received by fans and critics, reflecting a resurgence in the emo genre during the late 2000s and early 2010s. The EP's release helped solidify the band's position within the indie rock scene and contributed to their ongoing influence on emerging bands in the same vein. Released in 2010, Simple Science marked The Get Up Kids' return after a six-year hiatus since their previous album, Guilt Show. This EP signaled a renewed creative focus, showcasing a blend of their classic emo roots with more mature songwriting. With this release, they aimed to reconnect with both old fans and new listeners alike.

How many songs are on Simple Science?

Simple Science has 4 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Simple Science

The Get Up Kids · 2010

16 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A melodic exploration of emotional turmoil wrapped in energetic guitar riffs and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Your Petty Pretty Things — This opening track sets the tone for the EP with its catchy hooks and relatable themes of disillusionment. It captures the essence of The Get Up Kids' sound while introducing a more reflective lyrical approach.
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Keith Case — The narrative-driven lyrics in this song highlight a sense of nostalgia and personal storytelling, which are hallmarks of The Get Up Kids' style. Its dynamic instrumentation enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
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How You’re Bound — Closing the EP with a longer runtime, this track delves deeper into themes of connection and struggle, showcasing the band's growth. Its layered arrangements provide a satisfying culmination of the EP's sonic journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The EP blends classic emo elements with mature songwriting, creating a cohesive yet familiar sound.

What we noticed

Each track features a consistent mid-tempo pace, with layered guitar riffs that create a dense soundscape.
The lyrics are introspective and personal, often reflecting themes of emotional struggle and relationships.
The EP closes with a gradual fade-out on the last track, leaving a lingering sense of unresolved tension.

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: 8/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a hiatus, showing renewed creative focus.
Career context: Released in 2010, Simple Science marked The Get Up Kids' return after a six-year hiatus since their previous album, Guilt Show. This EP signaled a renewed creative focus, showcasing a blend of their classic emo roots with more mature songwriting. With this release, they aimed to reconnect with both old fans and new listeners alike.
Stylistic neighbors: Jimmy Eat World· The Starting Line· Brand New