Solarized cover

Solarized

Ian Brown · 2004

39 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock infused with catchy melodies and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the essence of early 2000s Britpop.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Longsight M13 — The opening track sets a reflective tone with its infectious rhythm and vivid storytelling, conveying a sense of place that resonates throughout the album.
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    Time Is My Everything — This track combines introspective lyrics with an upbeat melody, illustrating Brown's knack for blending personal themes with accessible pop sensibilities.
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    Solarized — The title track features an atmospheric soundscape that captures a moment of self-discovery and resilience, representing the thematic core of the album.
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    Home Is Where the Heart Is — In this song, Brown explores themes of belonging and nostalgia through a poignant melody, showcasing his ability to evoke deep emotions.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100
Lowland
Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album blends introspective lyrics with catchy melodies but lacks standout compositions that elevate it.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and arrangements.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic appeal.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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 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, consistent energy levels
  • short, engaging listening sessions
  • introspective mood exploration
  • mid-tempo reflective journeys

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2004, Solarized marked Ian Brown's third solo album, arriving after his critical success with Golden Greats. At this point in his career, Brown was transitioning from his earlier work, seeking to solidify his identity outside of The Stone Roses while experimenting with a more diverse sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Richard Ashcroft· The Charlatans· Doves

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Time Is My Everything

    The moment shifts from a nostalgic reflection to an urgent call for seizing the present and embracing change.

    This transition emphasizes a sense of immediacy that contrasts with earlier verses, enhancing the song's overall message about valuing time.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Longsight M13 3:12
  • 2 Time Is My Everything 3:52
  • 3 Destiny or Circumstance 2:35
  • 4 Upside Down 3:12
  • 5 Solarized 3:47
  • 6 The Sweet Fantastic 3:52
  • 7 Keep What Ya Got 4:28
  • 8 Home Is Where the Heart Is 3:06
  • 9 One Way Ticket to Paradise 4:15
  • 10 Kiss Ya Lips (No ID) 3:56
  • 11 Happy Ever After 2:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata