Space Cadet cover

Released 7 years ago today

Space Cadet

Beabadoobee · 2019

19 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A dreamy blend of lo-fi melodies and introspective lyrics that evoke youthful nostalgia and longing.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Are You Sure — This opening track sets the tone with its reflective lyrics and catchy melody, encapsulating the EP's themes of uncertainty and yearning.
  • →
    I Wish I Was Stephen Malkmus — This track stands out for its clever references to indie rock culture, blending personal longing with a nod to musical influences.
  • →
    Space Cadet — The title track showcases Beabadoobee's ability to merge dreamy instrumentals with vulnerable lyrics, embodying the essence of the entire EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases strong songwriting and cohesive sound while maintaining a distinct lo-fi aesthetic.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a gentle guitar riff that sets a dreamy tone, which is maintained throughout the EP.
  • Each song features layered vocals that create a sense of intimacy and nostalgia, often harmonizing in the choruses.
  • The tempo varies slightly, but most tracks hover around a mid-tempo pace, allowing for reflective lyrics to take center stage.
  • The final track concludes with an extended instrumental section that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering sense of longing.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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 mid-tempo reflective vibes
  • short bursts of youthful longing
  • dreamy soundscapes for daydreaming
  • introspective tracks for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy anthems
  • prefer longer, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in late 2019, Space Cadet marked Beabadoobee's transition from a bedroom pop sensation to a recognized artist in the indie scene. This EP followed her breakthrough single 'Coffee', solidifying her signature sound and establishing her as a vital voice in alternative rock.
Stylistic neighbors
Clairo· Phoebe Bridgers· Girl in red

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Are You Sure 4:04
  • 2 I Wish I Was Stephen Malkmus 3:52
  • 3 Sun More Often 4:01
  • 4 She Plays Bass 3:27
  • 5 Space Cadet 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata