What makes The Beatific Visions by Brakes notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its catchy hooks and energetic sound. Notably, it helped Brakes gain a foothold in the burgeoning indie rock revival of the mid-2000s, contributing to their reputation as a standout act in the genre. Released in 2006, The Beatific Visions was Brakes' second studio album, following their self-titled debut from 2005. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the UK indie rock scene, characterized by their eclectic influences and lively performances.

How many songs are on The Beatific Visions?

The Beatific Visions has 11 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

The Beatific Visions

Brakes · 2006

28 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

A whirlwind of frenetic energy, blending raw punk spirit with melodic indie rock sensibilities in short, punchy tracks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Margarita — This track stands out for its infectious chorus and playful lyrics that embody the album's whimsical yet urgent tone.
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Beatific Visions — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, combining introspective lyrics with an upbeat tempo that contrasts themes of existential reflection.
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Mobile Communication — This song showcases Brakes' knack for witty commentary on modern life, delivered through catchy melodies and tight instrumentation.
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No Return — Closing out the album, this track offers a more contemplative mood with layered instrumentation that highlights the band's range and depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album's energetic style and short track lengths create a lively yet somewhat conventional indie rock experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks employ abrupt tempo changes, shifting from frenetic punk energy to more melodic sections within the same song.
The use of call-and-response vocals in multiple tracks adds to the dynamic interplay between band members.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Hold Me in the River 2:00
2 Margarita 2:06
3 If I Should Die Tonight 2:00
4 Mobile Communication 3:47
5 Spring Chicken 2:00
6 Isabel 2:26
7 Beatific Visions 2:53
8 Porcupine or Pineapple? 1:04
9 Cease and Desist 2:27
10 On Your Side 2:20
11 No Return 4:57

What to play next

Listen next

Touchdown

2009

Go back to

Give Blood

2005

Full Brakes discography Artists like Brakes

indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata