Ten Stories cover

Ten Stories

MewithoutYou · 2012

40 min · 11 tracks · punk rock

A narrative-driven exploration where poetic lyrics collide with intricate melodies and punk-infused instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    February, 1878 — This opening track sets the tone with its vivid imagery and atmospheric soundscapes, establishing MewithoutYou's narrative approach through haunting melodies.
  • →
    Bear's Vision of St. Agnes — As one of the longest tracks on the album, it encapsulates the overarching themes of loss and introspection with a climactic build-up that showcases the band's musical evolution.
  • →
    Fox's Dream of the Log Flume — This track combines whimsical storytelling with dynamic instrumentation, highlighting the unique blend of playful and serious tones that permeates the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album combines intricate storytelling with varied instrumentation, making it a notable entry in MewithoutYou's discography.

What we noticed

  • The album features a narrative structure where each track tells a distinct story, often with interconnecting themes.
  • Instrumentation shifts between aggressive punk riffs and softer melodic passages, creating dynamic contrasts throughout the tracks.
  • Lyrically, the album employs vivid imagery and metaphor, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the narratives presented.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • narrative-driven lyrical exploration
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • poetic storytelling through melodies
  • mid-tempo consistency throughout album

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer standalone singles over albums

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time of its release in 2012, MewithoutYou was transitioning from their earlier sound, which had been heavily influenced by post-hardcore. 'Ten Stories' is their fifth studio album, coming after the critically acclaimed 'It’s All Crazy! It’s All False! It’s All a Dream! It’s Alright,' showcasing a more refined and eclectic style. This album reflects their growth as artists, integrating storytelling with a mix of folk and punk elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Brand New· The Dear Hunter· Circa Survive

Tracklist

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

  • 1 February, 1878 3:46
  • 2 Grist for the Malady Mill 3:18
  • 3 East Enders Wives 2:52
  • 4 Cardiff Giant 3:44
  • 5 Elephant in the Dock 3:51
  • 6 Aubergine 3:14
  • 7 Fox's Dream of the Log Flume 3:45
  • 8 Nine Stories 4:47
  • 9 Fiji Mermaid 3:34
  • 10 Bear's Vision of St. Agnes 5:00
  • 11 All Circles 2:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata