The House cover

The House

Porches · 2018

37 min · 14 tracks

A dreamy blend of synth-pop and indie rock, wrapped in introspective lyrics and ethereal production.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Leave the House — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melodies and reflective lyrics, establishing the themes of longing and self-discovery that permeate the record.
  • →
    Now the Water — Combining minimalist instrumentation with evocative lyrics, this track encapsulates the album's exploration of vulnerability and emotional release, making it a standout moment.
  • →
    Goodbye — Incorporating a poignant sense of finality, this track employs a stripped-back arrangement that allows Maine's vocal delivery to shine, effectively conveying themes of loss and reflection.
  • →
    Anything U Want — With its upbeat tempo juxtaposed against introspective lyrics, this song highlights Maine's knack for blending contrasting emotions, illustrating the complexities of desire and fulfillment.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The House showcases polished production and introspective songwriting, balancing dreamy soundscapes with emotional depth.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that build on a steady mid-tempo groove, while the second half introduces more experimental sounds and varied tempos.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered synths and ambient textures, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that contrasts with the introspective lyrics.
  • The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, allowing for a reflective ending.
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
6/10

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

  • dreamy soundscapes for introspection
  • short tracks for quick listening
  • ethereal vibes for late nights
  • reflective moments in solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, cohesive albums
  • seek immediate high-energy tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released as Porches' third studio album, The House came after their critically acclaimed record, Pool (2016). At this point in his career, Aaron Maine was exploring a more polished sound while maintaining his signature introspective lyricism, marking a notable evolution in his artistic direction.
Stylistic neighbors
Frank Ocean· Washed Out· Tame Impala

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Goodbye

    The final verse shifts from contemplative thoughts to a stark acknowledgment of separation without any embellishment.

    This direct approach strips away any romanticism, grounding the listener in the raw reality of parting.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Leave the House 2:11
  • 2 Find Me 3:48
  • 3 Understanding 1:00
  • 4 Now the Water 3:48
  • 5 Country 1:53
  • 6 By My Side 3:13
  • 7 Åkeren 1:49
  • 8 Anymore 3:21
  • 9 Wobble 2:05
  • 10 Goodbye 2:47
  • 11 Swimmer 0:53
  • 12 W Longing 4:27
  • 13 Ono 3:40
  • 14 Anything U Want 2:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata