The Things We Make cover

The Things We Make

Six by Seven · 1998

51 min · 10 tracks · space rock

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with melancholic melodies, creating a haunting exploration of emotional depths and existential reflections.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    European Me — This track features a captivating blend of dreamy instrumentation and reflective lyrics, encapsulating the band's signature sound while addressing themes of identity and longing.
  • →
    Candlelight — With its haunting melodies and layered production, this song exemplifies the band's ability to evoke deep emotion through minimalistic arrangements, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.
  • →
    Spy Song — The extended length and intricate build-up of this track showcase Six by Seven's experimental tendencies, combining space rock elements with an engaging narrative structure that draws listeners in.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

57 /100
Foothills
Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The album features atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics, creating a cohesive listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a slow build, layering guitars and synths that create an expansive soundscape over the first three tracks.
  • Vocals are often delivered in a subdued manner, blending into the instrumentation rather than standing out as the focal point.
  • Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that allow for atmospheric exploration, particularly in 'Candlelight' and 'Comedown'.
  • The sequencing alternates between more upbeat tracks and slower, introspective pieces, maintaining a consistent mood throughout.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting explorations of emotional depths
  • patient unfolding of melancholic melodies
  • introspective moments of quiet reflection
  • candlelit evenings with soft sounds

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat and fast-paced songs
  • seek immediate gratification and energy

Where this album fits

Career context
The Things We Make is Six by Seven's debut album, released in January 1998. At this point in their career, the band was emerging from the British indie scene, establishing their unique blend of space rock and post-punk influences. This album set the stage for their subsequent projects and solidified their presence in the music landscape of the late '90s.
Stylistic neighbors
Spiritualized· My Bloody Valentine· The Verve

Tracklist

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

  • 1 A Beautiful Shape 4:40
  • 2 European Me 7:12
  • 3 Candlelight 4:07
  • 4 For You 3:32
  • 5 Spy Song 8:48
  • 6 Something Wild 4:11
  • 7 Brilliantly Cute 3:58
  • 8 Oh! Dear 7:33
  • 9 88-92-96 6:35
  • 10 Comedown 1:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata