What makes That Much Further West by Lucero notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics and helped solidify Lucero's place in the alt-country genre. It has been cited as influential for subsequent bands blending punk rock with country influences, contributing to the broader Americana movement. Released on September 23, 2003, That Much Further West was Lucero's third studio album, following their 2002 release, Tennessee. At this point in their career, the band was beginning to establish their unique sound within the alternative country scene, moving beyond their earlier work while still maintaining a raw, authentic feel.

Who is That Much Further West for?

That Much Further West works well if you're into steady mid-tempo storytelling flow, heartfelt lyrics for reflection and gritty instrumentation for immersion.

How many songs are on That Much Further West?

That Much Further West has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

That Much Further West

Lucero · 2003

41 min · 12 tracks · alternative country

A gritty blend of Southern rock and punk-infused country, capturing the essence of heartache and restless living.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mine Tonight — This track exemplifies Lucero's signature sound with its earnest lyrics about longing and its driving melody that captures a sense of urgency.
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Sad and Lonely — With its poignant storytelling and emotive delivery, this song encapsulates the album's themes of heartbreak and introspection.
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Coming Home — The closing track provides a reflective sense of resolution, combining lyrical nostalgia with an anthemic sound that resonates deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends punk and country effectively but has moments where it feels conventional in its songwriting.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces slower ballads that create a contrast.
Several tracks incorporate prominent guitar riffs that blend punk energy with traditional country instrumentation.
The lyrics often reflect themes of heartache and restlessness, with a storytelling approach that is prevalent throughout the record.

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: 5/10

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 storytelling flow
heartfelt lyrics for reflection
gritty instrumentation for immersion
evening drive with friends
longing and nostalgia themes

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced excitement
seek standalone catchy singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on September 23, 2003, That Much Further West was Lucero's third studio album, following their 2002 release, Tennessee. At this point in their career, the band was beginning to establish their unique sound within the alternative country scene, moving beyond their earlier work while still maintaining a raw, authentic feel.
Stylistic neighbors: Drive-By Truckers· Jason Isbell· The Hold Steady