What makes The Trick Is to Keep Breathing by Garbage notable?

This album is significant for its critical reception, receiving praise for its introspective lyrics and innovative production techniques. It also contributed to Garbage's consistent presence in the late '90s alternative music landscape, showing their ability to tackle complex emotions while maintaining commercial viability. Released on February 15, 1999, 'The Trick Is to Keep Breathing' marks Garbage's third studio album, following their successful sophomore release, 'Version 2.0.' At this stage, the band was solidifying their identity in the alternative rock scene while exploring deeper lyrical themes and evolving their sound.

How many songs are on The Trick Is to Keep Breathing?

The Trick Is to Keep Breathing has 4 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

The Trick Is to Keep Breathing

Garbage · 1999

14 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of darkly atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that showcase emotional vulnerability amidst alternative rock's edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Trick Is to Keep Breathing — The title track encapsulates the album's theme of resilience through haunting melodies paired with reflective lyrics about coping with emotional turmoil.
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Can’t Seem to Make You Mine — This track stands out with its raw honesty and captivating energy, showcasing Garbage's knack for blending personal narratives with catchy hooks.
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Tornado — A powerful exploration of tumultuous emotions, this song combines intense instrumentation with evocative imagery, making it a highlight of self-reflection on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album combines atmospheric production with strong songwriting, though its cohesion suffers from the inclusion of a remix.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build with layered synths and a steady drum machine, creating an atmospheric tension that persists throughout.
The second track introduces a more aggressive guitar riff while maintaining the dark mood established in the opener.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases innovative production and emotional depth, marking a high point in their artistic evolution.
Themes: emotional turmoil· chaotic urgency
Career context: Released on February 15, 1999, 'The Trick Is to Keep Breathing' marks Garbage's third studio album, following their successful sophomore release, 'Version 2.0.' At this stage, the band was solidifying their identity in the alternative rock scene while exploring deeper lyrical themes and evolving their sound.
Stylistic neighbors: No Doubt· Placebo· The Smashing Pumpkins