Standards
Lloyd Cole · 2013
41 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective blend of understated melodies and introspective lyrics woven through a tapestry of alternative rock and pop sensibilities.
Top tracks — play these first
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California Earthquake — This opening track establishes the album's mood with its vivid imagery and reflective tone, capturing the essence of personal and societal upheaval.
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Women’s Studies — This track stands out for its sharp social commentary intertwined with poignant storytelling, showcasing Cole's ability to address contemporary issues through a personal lens.
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Diminished Ex — Concluding the album, this song encapsulates the themes of nostalgia and loss, offering a haunting reflection that resonates deeply with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases thoughtful songwriting and varied instrumentation, appealing to listeners seeking depth.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and arrangements.
- Several songs incorporate layered instrumentation, with subtle shifts in dynamics that create an intimate atmosphere throughout.
- Lyrically, the album often employs narrative storytelling, with recurring themes of reflection and personal experience woven into the verses.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments
- introspective melodies for contemplation
- thoughtful acoustic textures throughout
- melancholic tunes for quiet evenings
Maybe skip if you
- seeking upbeat party vibes
- prefer instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Standards' was released in 2013, Lloyd Cole was marking his artistic resurgence after a long hiatus since his last studio album in 2006. This album follows his transition from major label releases to a more independent approach, showcasing his evolution as a solo artist exploring personal narratives and mature themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Go-Betweens· David Gray· Roxy Music
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 California Earthquake 3:49
- 2 Women’s Studies 4:12
- 3 Period Piece 3:27
- 4 Myrtle and Rose 5:19
- 5 No Truck 2:52
- 6 Blue Like Mars 4:19
- 7 Opposites Day 4:16
- 8 Silver Lake 2:41
- 9 It’s Late 3:12
- 10 Kids Today 2:56
- 11 Diminished Ex 4:18
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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