The Low Anthem cover

Released 20 years ago

The Low Anthem

The Low Anthem · 2006

54 min · 12 tracks · folk rock

A haunting blend of folk melodies and intricate harmonies envelops listeners in a world of introspection and storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Lonely Dollar — This track features poignant lyrics reflecting on economic hardship, intertwined with delicate instrumentation that showcases the band's signature sound.
  • →
    Military Planes — With its somber tone and evocative imagery, this song illustrates the band's ability to weave personal narratives into broader themes of conflict and longing.
  • →
    Take Care of Your Own — This track stands out for its anthemic quality and communal feel, inviting listeners to reflect on connection and responsibility amidst isolation.

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 strong songwriting with unique structures but lacks some polish in execution.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks utilize unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and extended instrumental sections that create a sense of exploration.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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
5/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Matchstick Rafters

    A pivotal moment occurs when the singer shifts from collective reminiscence to intimate confession, revealing vulnerability about past choices.

    This transition deepens emotional engagement by moving from a shared experience to a personal revelation, illustrating the struggle between nostalgia and regret.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Burlington 5:49
  • 2 Lonely Dollar 3:12
  • 3 I Need You 5:32
  • 4 Military Planes 4:37
  • 5 Matchstick Rafters 4:30
  • 6 Bluebirds 3:23
  • 7 Running Weary 3:22
  • 8 Take Care of Your Own 3:43
  • 9 Country Wine 2:32
  • 10 Don't Say No 4:40
  • 11 Monday's Rain 4:33
  • 12 Southbound Train / [unknown] 8:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata