The Changing of the Guard
Starflyer 59 · 2010
32 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, weaving nostalgia with a modern alternative rock sensibility.
Top tracks — play these first
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Fun Is Fun — Opening with upbeat energy, this track captures the playful essence of the album while exploring themes of joy and simplicity.
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Shane — With its reflective lyrics and engaging melody, this song stands out as an emotional centerpiece that resonates with listeners seeking deeper meaning.
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I Had a Song for the Ages — This track exemplifies the band's knack for blending catchy hooks with poignant storytelling, offering insight into personal experiences and artistic aspirations.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing solid songwriting and production.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with jangly guitars, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
- Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
- The track 'C.M.A.R.' stands out with its use of a prominent bass line that drives the rhythm, contrasting with the lighter guitar work.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- 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
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments
- melancholic melodies for introspection
- for afternoon daydreaming
- short tracks with consistent flow
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy excitement
- prefer longer, sprawling albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'The Changing of the Guard' was released in 2010, Starflyer 59 had established themselves as a prominent band in the alternative rock scene, following their critically acclaimed album 'Daughter.' This release marked a continuation of their exploration of melodic soundscapes while still embracing their signature lo-fi aesthetic, infusing new elements into their evolving style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Prayer Chain· My Morning Jacket· Pedro the Lion
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Shane
The verses shift perspective to address a friend directly, revealing vulnerability and connection amidst reflective storytelling.
This direct address deepens the emotional impact, creating an intimacy that contrasts with the more abstract themes found in other songs.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Fun Is Fun 2:50
- 2 Shane 4:06
- 3 Time Machine 2:48
- 4 Truckers Son 3:16
- 5 The Morning Rise / Frightening Eyes 3:20
- 6 I Had a Song for the Ages 3:27
- 7 Coconut Trees 3:31
- 8 C.M.A.R. 3:02
- 9 Kick the Can 2:48
- 10 Lose My Mind 3:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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