What makes The Balcony by Catfish and the Bottlemen notable?

The Balcony received critical acclaim, debuting at number 10 on the UK Albums Chart and earning a nomination for Best British Newcomer at the 2015 Brit Awards. Its singles, particularly 'Kathleen' and 'Cocoon,' became staples of modern alternative rock radio, influencing the sound of subsequent UK bands. Released in early 2014, The Balcony was Catfish and the Bottlemen's debut album, introducing their energetic alternative rock sound to a wider audience. The band had previously gained attention with their EPs and singles, setting up expectations for this full-length project as they transitioned from underground buzz to mainstream recognition.

Who is The Balcony for?

The Balcony works well if you're into youthful exuberance and longing, short bursts of energy and sing-along anthems with friends.

How many songs are on The Balcony?

The Balcony has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

The Balcony

Catfish and the Bottlemen · 2014

37 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant mix of anthemic choruses and jangly guitar riffs that capture youthful exuberance and longing.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Kathleen — This track showcases the band's knack for catchy hooks and relatable lyrics about unrequited love, making it one of their most recognizable songs.
→
Cocoon — With its infectious chorus and driving rhythm, this song encapsulates the youthful energy that defines the album's spirit.
→
Homesick — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its introspective lyrics and vivid imagery of longing, establishing a strong emotional connection.
→
26 — This song highlights a more contemplative side of the band, reflecting on personal growth and the passage of time through its poignant storytelling.

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 showcases energetic songwriting and solid production but lacks deep cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving tempos and anthemic choruses, establishing a high-energy opening.
Several songs utilize a call-and-response vocal technique, enhancing the communal feel of the choruses.
The album's final track features a gradual build-up, culminating in a climactic finish that contrasts with earlier tracks.

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

youthful exuberance and longing
short bursts of energy
sing-along anthems with friends
for a road trip

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
seek lengthy, immersive tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 2014, The Balcony was Catfish and the Bottlemen's debut album, introducing their energetic alternative rock sound to a wider audience. The band had previously gained attention with their EPs and singles, setting up expectations for this full-length project as they transitioned from underground buzz to mainstream recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: The Wombats· Circa Waves· VANT