What makes Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice by Starflyer 59 notable?

Upon its release, 'Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice' received positive reviews from critics, contributing to Starflyer 59's reputation as significant figures in the alternative and indie rock genres. The album showcased a refined sound that resonated with fans and helped maintain the band's relevance in a rapidly evolving music scene. By the time 'Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice' was released in 2005, Starflyer 59 had established themselves within the alternative rock scene, following their acclaimed album 'I Am the Portuguese Blues' from 2003. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into layered soundscapes and personal themes, further solidifying their presence in the indie music landscape.

Who is Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice for?

Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, melancholic yet hopeful undertones and in-order listening experience preferred.

How many songs are on Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice?

Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice has 9 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice

Starflyer 59 · 2005

32 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock

Echoes of dreamy guitars and introspective lyrics create a hazy atmosphere blending alternative rock with shoegaze influences.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
The Contest Completed — This opening track sets the tone with its lush instrumentation and contemplative lyrics, drawing listeners into the album's emotional landscape.
→
Easy Street — With its catchy melody and reflective undertones, this song encapsulates the balance between comfort and discontent prevalent throughout the album.
→
Night Life — This track exemplifies the album's dreamy aesthetics, featuring ethereal guitar work that evokes a sense of longing and introspection.
→
Something Evil — In this song, darker lyrical themes emerge alongside a driving rhythm, highlighting the dichotomy of light and dark present across the record.

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 blends alternative rock and shoegaze elements with introspective lyrics, creating a cohesive yet familiar sound.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo, while the second half introduces slower, more reflective pieces.
Several songs incorporate layered guitar effects that create a dense, atmospheric sound characteristic of shoegaze.
The lyrics often explore themes of introspection and personal struggle, with a conversational tone that contrasts with the ethereal instrumentation.

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

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 moments
melancholic yet hopeful undertones
in-order listening experience preferred
short tracks for focused sessions

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy excitement
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Talking Voice vs. Singing Voice' was released in 2005, Starflyer 59 had established themselves within the alternative rock scene, following their acclaimed album 'I Am the Portuguese Blues' from 2003. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into layered soundscapes and personal themes, further solidifying their presence in the indie music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: The Prayer Chain· My Morning Jacket· Pedro the Lion