The Sun Never Sets cover

Released 21 years ago this October

The Sun Never Sets

The Herd · 2005

64 min · 15 tracks · Australian hip-hop

A vibrant blend of Australian hip-hop and eclectic influences, merging sharp lyrics with infectious grooves.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    National Holiday — This track stands out for its satirical take on nationalism and identity, encapsulating the band's sharp wit and lyrical prowess. Its catchy hook and rhythmic flow make it a memorable anthem that critiques complacency in society.
  • →
    We Can’t Hear You — With its strong beat and engaging call-and-response structure, this song emphasizes the group's commitment to addressing social issues through music. The energy and urgency reflect a critical moment in Australian culture.
  • →
    Full Moon — Blending introspective lyrics with a smooth production style, this track showcases the band's range while exploring themes of uncertainty and change. It balances personal reflection with broader societal implications.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album combines sharp lyrics with infectious grooves, showcasing a blend of personal and political themes.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast pace, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response sections, creating an interactive feel for listeners.
  • Lyrical themes often shift between personal narratives and broader social commentary, with shifts in tone that reflect the lyrical content.
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
7/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • vibrant energy for afternoon gatherings
  • thought-provoking lyrics for reflection
  • varied pacing that keeps interest
  • for road trip vibes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek consistent, uniform sound

Where this album fits

Career context
The Sun Never Sets is The Herd's third studio album, following their acclaimed 2004 release, Anarchy. By this point in their career, the group had solidified their presence in the Australian music scene, known for their politically charged lyrics and innovative sound, which helped them gain a dedicated fanbase and critical recognition.
Stylistic neighbors
Hilltop Hoods· Bliss n Eso· Urthboy

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Unpredictable 4:05
  • 2 Long Lunch 3:30
  • 3 National Holiday 3:18
  • 4 We Can’t Hear You 4:17
  • 5 Under Pressure 4:23
  • 6 Where Is Everyone? 2:38
  • 7 Full Moon 4:37
  • 8 Apocalypta 5:30
  • 9 Can’t Breathe 5:20
  • 10 Starship Troopers (redux) 3:23
  • 11 Effortless 4:26
  • 12 Mischief 4:19
  • 13 No Disclaimers 3:37
  • 14 Breakfast Club 5:57
  • 15 The Metres Gained 4:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata