Speed Graphic cover

Speed Graphic

Ben Folds · 2003

20 min · 5 tracks · pop music

A playful blend of pop melodies and piano-driven arrangements infused with a sense of humor and introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    In Between Days Start here — This cover stands out for its delicate piano arrangement that transforms the original's urgency into a reflective and intimate moment, highlighting Folds' ability to reinterpret classics.
  • →
    Give Judy My Notice — With its catchy chorus and storytelling lyrics, this track exemplifies Folds' trademark wit while exploring themes of resignation and personal growth.
  • →
    Wandering — This original song captures a sense of longing through its poignant lyrics and lush instrumentation, marking it as one of the standout moments on the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases clever songwriting and varied arrangements, balancing covers with originals while maintaining a distinct sound.

What we noticed

  • The first track is a cover that reinterprets the original's melody with a playful piano arrangement, setting a lighthearted tone.
  • The original songs feature clever lyrics and varied tempos, with 'Give Judy My Notice' employing a conversational style that contrasts with the more upbeat tracks.
  • The EP closes with 'Wandering', which shifts to a slower tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere that differs from the preceding tracks.
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
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

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

  • mid-tempo reflective listening
  • playful arrangements for sing-alongs
  • brief bursts of introspection
  • steady flow for easy engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy immersive albums
  • seek high-energy instant hits

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A unique mix of covers and originals, appealing to dedicated fans but less accessible overall.
Themes
intimate piano reflections· witty resignation stories· nostalgic longing
Career context
Released in early 2003, Speed Graphic came out shortly after Ben Folds' commercial peak with his debut solo album Rockin' the Suburbs in 2001. This EP features a mix of covers and original songs, showcasing his evolving sound while maintaining the witty lyrical style that defined his earlier work with Ben Folds Five.

Tracklist

  • 1 In Between Days Start here 2:53
  • 2 Give Judy My Notice 3:59
  • 3 Protection 4:36
  • 4 Dog 4:29
  • 5 Wandering 4:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata