Things We Do for Love cover

Things We Do for Love

The Sounds · 2020

42 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of synth-driven melodies and emotive lyrics that captures the essence of modern alternative rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Things We Do For Love — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of devotion and vulnerability, combining infectious melodies with poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
  • →
    Safe and Sound — This track stands out with its upbeat tempo and relatable narrative about seeking comfort and security amidst life's challenges, embodying the album's spirit.
  • →
    Bonnie and Clyde — With its playful take on partnership and rebellion, this song showcases The Sounds’ knack for blending storytelling with catchy instrumentation, making it a memorable highlight.

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 album blends energetic and introspective tracks but lacks a strong cohesive arc.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with driving synth lines, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
  • The album employs a consistent use of electronic elements, with synths prominently featured in nearly every track, enhancing its modern alternative rock sound.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • introspective reflections on love
  • ideal for casual hangouts
  • uplifting melodies for road trips

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced listening
  • seek deep lyrical complexity

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on June 12, 2020, 'Things We Do for Love' marks The Sounds' return after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, 'Communion'. This fifth studio album showcases their continued evolution in sound while maintaining the energetic pop-punk roots that initially garnered them acclaim.
Stylistic neighbors
Yeah Yeah Yeahs· The Killers· Metric

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Dreaming of You

    The verse shifts from nostalgia to a yearning tone as it reflects on dreams of connection and intimacy.

    The transition in mood emphasizes the contrast between memory and desire, illustrating the complexities of longing.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Things We Do For Love 4:16
  • 2 Safe and Sound 3:32
  • 3 Changes 3:51
  • 4 Bonnie and Clyde 3:48
  • 5 Hollow 4:40
  • 6 Fingertips 3:20
  • 7 Dreaming of You 3:47
  • 8 Dim the Lights 3:11
  • 9 Stay Free 2:05
  • 10 Home 3:23
  • 11 Miami 6:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata