The Good, the Bad & the Queen cover

The Good, the Bad & the Queen

The Good, the Bad & the Queen · 2007

89 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of alternative rock and murky atmospheres, layered with poignant storytelling and reflective melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Herculean — This track features a powerful exploration of personal struggle against a backdrop of lush instrumentation, exemplifying the album's reflective tone.
  • →
    Kingdom of Doom — A standout moment that captures societal disillusionment through vivid imagery and a catchy chorus, making it emblematic of the album’s themes.
  • →
    Northern Whale — This track intertwines ecological concerns with personal narrative, showcasing Albarn's ability to blend topical issues with intimate storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's layered sound and introspective lyrics create a distinctive atmosphere, though it may not have widespread recognition.

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 instrumentation, creating a dense atmospheric sound that supports the lyrical themes.
  • The album closes with a track that features a gradual fade-out, leaving an unresolved feeling that complements its introspective nature.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • contemplative reflective moments
  • wave-like pacing experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
The Good, the Bad & the Queen marked a significant moment in Damon Albarn's career, being his first project following the hiatus of Blur and Gorillaz. Released on January 22, 2007, it showcased his shift towards a more introspective sound, drawing on themes of urban life and history amidst a backdrop of British musical influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Gorillaz· Blur· The Clash

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 History Song 3:05
  • 2 80’s Life 3:28
  • 3 Northern Whale 3:54
  • 4 Kingdom of Doom 2:42
  • 5 Herculean 3:59
  • 6 Behind the Sun 2:38
  • 7 The Bunting Song 3:47
  • 8 Nature Springs 3:10
  • 9 A Soldier’s Tale 2:30
  • 10 Three Changes 4:15
  • 11 Green Fields 2:26
  • 12 The Good, the Bad & the Queen 7:00

Disc 2

  • 1 Live At The Tabernacle - Nature Springs/The Bunting Song/The Good, The Bad & The Queen 34:57
  • 2 Rehersal Footage - A Soldier's Tale/Interview 11:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata