What makes So It Goes by Nick Lowe notable?

This album is significant as it features the song 'Heart of the City,' which became a staple in Lowe's live performances and helped establish his reputation as a solo artist. The record received positive reviews for its catchy hooks and clever lyrics, contributing to Lowe's recognition within the UK music scene during the mid-1970s. Released in 1976, So It Goes marks Nick Lowe's debut solo album after leaving the band Brinsley Schwarz. At this point in his career, Lowe transitioned from pub rock to a style that would help shape the burgeoning new wave scene.

How many songs are on So It Goes?

So It Goes has 2 tracks, running approximately 4 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

So It Goes

Nick Lowe · 1976

4 min · 2 tracks · new wave

Bright melodies entwine with sharp lyrical wit, creating an engaging blend of rock and new wave energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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So It Goes — The opening track encapsulates the album's breezy yet introspective vibe, showcasing Lowe's knack for blending relatable themes with infectious melodies.
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Heart of the City — This track stands out for its driving rhythm and poignant lyrics about urban life, reflecting the energetic spirit that defines much of Lowe's later work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The album showcases engaging melodies and sharp lyrics but lacks depth and variety across its short runtime.

What we noticed

The second track, 'Heart of the City,' shifts to a more driving rhythm while maintaining the melodic hooks established in the first track.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

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: Breakthrough — This album established Lowe's reputation as a solo artist after leaving Brinsley Schwarz.
Themes: urban life reflections· pub rock transition· new wave energy
Career context: Released in 1976, So It Goes marks Nick Lowe's debut solo album after leaving the band Brinsley Schwarz. At this point in his career, Lowe transitioned from pub rock to a style that would help shape the burgeoning new wave scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Elvis Costello· Graham Parker· Joe Jackson