What makes The Old Apartment by Barenaked Ladies notable?

This album notably includes the radio remix of 'The Old Apartment,' which became a commercial success, reaching high positions on various charts. The song's clever narrative style and catchy hooks contributed to the band's reputation for crafting relatable yet humorous songs, influencing the pop-rock genre throughout the late '90s. In 1997, Barenaked Ladies were experiencing a significant rise in popularity following their breakthrough album, 'Gordon,' released in 1992. 'The Old Apartment' served as a follow-up single from their album 'Born on a Pirate Ship,' which showcased their ability to merge humorous lyrics with catchy melodies, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on The Old Apartment?

The Old Apartment has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

The Old Apartment

Barenaked Ladies · 1997

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A playful blend of acoustic melodies and witty storytelling wrapped in the warmth of Canadian folk-rock charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Old Apartment (radio remix) — This track exemplifies the band's signature storytelling with its nostalgic themes, combining humor and melancholy that resonates with listeners reflecting on past homes.
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Lovers in a Dangerous Time — A cover of Bruce Cockburn’s classic, this rendition embodies Barenaked Ladies' knack for infusing deeper social commentary into accessible pop-rock melodies.

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 single showcases clever songwriting and engaging melodies but lacks depth in its overall impact.

What we noticed

The radio remix of 'The Old Apartment' features a prominent acoustic guitar riff that drives the melody, while layered harmonies enhance the chorus.
The second track, 'Lovers in a Dangerous Time,' is a cover that contrasts with the first by incorporating a more subdued arrangement and reflective lyrics.

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

Influence 3/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single followed their breakthrough album 'Gordon,' solidifying their popularity.
Themes: nostalgic memories· whimsical storytelling
Career context: In 1997, Barenaked Ladies were experiencing a significant rise in popularity following their breakthrough album, 'Gordon,' released in 1992. 'The Old Apartment' served as a follow-up single from their album 'Born on a Pirate Ship,' which showcased their ability to merge humorous lyrics with catchy melodies, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: They Might Be Giants· Guster· Ben Folds Five