What makes Structure & Cosmetics by The Brunettes notable?

Structure & Cosmetics received positive critical acclaim, underscoring The Brunettes' unique approach to pop music that combines catchy melodies with clever lyrics. The album's standout tracks helped to further establish the band as a significant act in the New Zealand indie pop movement, even earning them spots on various charts and playlists. Released in 2007, Structure & Cosmetics is The Brunettes' third studio album, following the 2005 release of Holding Hands, Feeding Ducks. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their distinctive sound within the indie pop scene, building on their earlier successes while exploring more complex musical themes and lyrical narratives.

How many songs are on Structure & Cosmetics?

Structure & Cosmetics has 9 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Structure & Cosmetics

The Brunettes · 2007

38 min · 9 tracks · indie pop

A playful blend of jangly guitars and sweet harmonies infused with a whimsical indie pop charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Brunettes Against Bubblegum Youth — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious energy and witty commentary on youth culture, establishing the band's signature playful style.
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Her Hairagami Set — A quirky exploration of identity and self-image, this track showcases the band's knack for blending humor with introspective lyrics, making it a fan favorite.
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If You Were Alien — This song stands out for its imaginative storytelling and melodic hooks, illustrating the band's ability to craft engaging narratives that resonate with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases playful songwriting and unique structures but lacks strong cohesion throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and layered vocal harmonies, establishing a lively tone.
Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt key changes and varied verse lengths.
The album closes with a title track that shifts to a slower tempo, creating a reflective ending.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 2/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Brunettes Against Bubblegum Youth 4:15
2 Stereo (Mono Mono) 5:03
3 Her Hairagami Set 4:39
4 Credit Card Mail Order 4:11
5 Obligatory Road Song 4:12
6 Small Town Crew 3:52
7 If You Were Alien 4:28
8 Wall Poster Star 3:34
9 Structure and Cosmetics 4:34

What to play next

Listen next

Paper Dolls

2009

Go back to

Mars Loves Venus

2005

Full The Brunettes discography Artists like The Brunettes

indie pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata