The Audio of Being
Matthew Good Band · 2002
63 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock
A dynamic blend of introspective lyrics and soaring melodies meets gritty alternative rock instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Advertising on Police Cars — This track stands out for its biting critique of societal norms and consumerism, encapsulated in its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm. It exemplifies the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with sharp social commentary.
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Sort of a Protest Song — This song effectively merges personal reflection with broader social issues, showcasing the band's lyrical complexity and emotional depth. Its poignant verses highlight the struggle between individual experience and collective action.
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Carmelina — With its haunting melody and intimate lyrics, this track captures a moment of vulnerability, illustrating the band’s softer side while maintaining their signature intensity. It offers a contrast to the more aggressive tones found elsewhere on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album combines thoughtful lyrics with dynamic instrumentation, though it lacks some cohesion in pacing.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
- Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that build intensity, particularly in the choruses.
- The lyrics often tackle societal issues, with a notable shift in tone from introspective to confrontational across the tracklist.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- 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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5/10
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
- gradual builds and payoffs
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- The Audio of Being is Matthew Good Band's third studio album, released in early 2002, following their commercial breakthrough with Beautiful Midnight in 1999. At this point, the band was solidifying their place in the Canadian alternative rock scene, having gained significant recognition for their lyrical depth and musical intensity. This album continued to build on their established sound while delving into more personal and political themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Our Lady Peace· The Tea Party· Collective Soul
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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The Workers Sing a Song of Mass Production
The lyrics shift from depicting daily struggles to a powerful call for change within monotonous routines.
The transition emphasizes a growing awareness of systemic issues, moving from personal narrative to collective urgency that challenges listeners to reflect on their roles.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Man of Action 7:00
- 2 Carmelina 4:16
- 3 Tripoli 4:38
- 4 Advertising on Police Cars 7:08
- 5 I, The Throw Away 3:09
- 6 Truffle Pigs 4:46
- 7 The Fall of Man 5:03
- 8 Under the Influence 4:32
- 9 The Rat Who Would Be King 6:47
- 10 Anti‐Pop 4:08
- 11 The Workers Sing a Song of Mass Production 5:21
- 12 Sort of a Protest Song 6:33
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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