What makes The W.A.N.D. (The Will Always Negates Defeat) by The Flaming Lips notable?

The W.A.N.D. received positive reviews from critics, reflecting the band's sustained innovative spirit and artistic evolution. It also contributed to the Flaming Lips' presence in the alternative music scene, particularly with its lead single reaching notable positions on various charts. Released in 2006, The W.A.N.D. followed the Flaming Lips' critically acclaimed album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, which had solidified their status in alternative rock. This album showcases a continued exploration of experimental sounds while marking their transition into a more mainstream appeal, as they sought to balance ambitious compositions with accessible hooks.

How many songs are on The W.A.N.D. (The Will Always Negates Defeat)?

The W.A.N.D. (The Will Always Negates Defeat) has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

The W.A.N.D. (The Will Always Negates Defeat)

The Flaming Lips · 2006

12 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of psychedelic rock and experimental pop, swirling with vibrant melodies and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The W.A.N.D. — This track serves as a manifesto of resilience, combining lush instrumentation with anthemic choruses that encapsulate the album's themes of hope and perseverance.
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You Got to Hold On — With its driving rhythm and uplifting message, this song stands out for its encouragement to endure through difficult times, embodying the album's optimistic undercurrents.
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Time Travel... Yes!! — This track features whimsical lyrics and playful melodies that highlight the band's signature surrealism while exploring themes of escapism and imagination.

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 single showcases varied arrangements and experimental elements, maintaining the band's distinctive sound while exploring new territory.

What we noticed

The lead track features a prominent use of synthesizers layered with guitar riffs, creating a dense soundscape that evolves throughout its duration.
The second track introduces a more stripped-down arrangement, focusing on vocal harmonies and minimal instrumentation, contrasting with 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: Breakthrough — 'The W.A.N.D.' marked a return to the charts and helped maintain the band's reputation.
Themes: cosmic resilience· psychedelic exploration· alternative optimism
Career context: Released in 2006, The W.A.N.D. followed the Flaming Lips' critically acclaimed album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, which had solidified their status in alternative rock. This album showcases a continued exploration of experimental sounds while marking their transition into a more mainstream appeal, as they sought to balance ambitious compositions with accessible hooks.
Stylistic neighbors: Animal Collective· Tame Impala· MGMT