Straight Line Was a Lie
The Beths · 2025
43 min · 10 tracks · indie rock
Energetic guitar riffs merge with candid lyrics, creating a vibrant exploration of modern relationships and personal growth.
Top tracks — play these first
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Straight Line Was a Lie — The title track captures the essence of the album with its infectious hook and introspective lyrics that reflect on life's unpredictable paths.
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Mother, Pray for Me — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of familial expectations, combining heartfelt lyrics with an anthemic chorus that resonates deeply with listeners.
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No Joy — With its driving rhythm and contemplative lyrics, this song encapsulates the struggle between personal happiness and external pressures, making it a relatable anthem for many.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and production but remains within familiar indie rock territory.
What we noticed
- The opening track features a driving guitar riff that establishes an energetic pace, which is maintained through the first half of the album.
- Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics, particularly in 'Mother, Pray for Me'.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- 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
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
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- contemplative afternoon reflections
- steady, consistent energy levels
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'Straight Line Was a Lie' was released, The Beths were solidifying their place in the indie rock scene following their acclaimed 2021 album. This third studio album marks their evolution as songwriters, showcasing a more mature sound while retaining their signature catchy melodies.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Alvvays· Snail Mail· Girlpool
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Mother, Pray for Me
The narrative shifts from addressing broad worries to direct pleas for understanding and support.
This shift personalizes the song's emotional weight, enhancing its impact by contrasting intimate vulnerability against broader themes of expectation.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Straight Line Was a Lie 4:04
- 2 Mosquitoes 4:43
- 3 No Joy 3:17
- 4 Metal 4:43
- 5 Mother, Pray for Me 4:50
- 6 Til My Heart Stops 4:14
- 7 Take 3:56
- 8 Roundabout 4:23
- 9 Ark of the Covenant 4:22
- 10 Best Laid Plans 5:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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