Through the Windowpane cover

Released 20 years ago

Through the Windowpane

Guillemots · 2006

59 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

Eclectic indie rock swirls with orchestral touches, heartfelt lyrics, and vibrant instrumentation that invites introspection and exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Trains to Brazil — This track stands out for its infectious melody and poignant lyrics inspired by the late journalist Geoff Cumming, showcasing the band's ability to blend upbeat sounds with reflective themes.
  • →
    Made-Up Lovesong #43 — The song's lush instrumentation and romantic lyricism create an intimate atmosphere that encapsulates the band's unique sound while highlighting their songwriting prowess.
  • →
    Little Bear — Opening the album, this track introduces listeners to the band's whimsical style and emotional depth through its gentle delivery and vivid imagery.

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 blends orchestral elements with indie rock, creating a distinctive sound that engages listeners emotionally.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a soft, melodic track that gradually builds in instrumentation, leading into more upbeat songs like 'Trains to Brazil'.
  • Several tracks feature orchestral arrangements, such as strings and brass, which add depth and texture to the indie rock foundation.
  • The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and personal themes, inviting listeners to engage on an emotional level throughout the record.
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

  • wistful nostalgia in lush melodies
  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • for reflective afternoons
  • headphone detail and intricate arrangements

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2006, Through the Windowpane was Guillemots' debut album, establishing them as a unique voice in the UK indie scene. The band, formed just two years prior, showcased their genre-blending style, combining rock with elements of folk and pop.
Stylistic neighbors
The Maccabees· Biffy Clyro· Foals

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • If the World Ends

    The bridge suddenly shifts from contemplation to a call for connection amid uncertainty, emphasizing urgency in relationships.

    This shift in tone reflects a pivotal moment of vulnerability and immediacy, heightening the emotional stakes of the song.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Little Bear 4:49
  • 2 Made-Up Lovesong #43 3:40
  • 3 Trains to Brazil 4:02
  • 4 Redwings 6:02
  • 5 Come Away With Me 3:09
  • 6 Through the Windowpane 3:38
  • 7 If the World Ends 6:20
  • 8 We're Here 5:14
  • 9 Blue Would Still Be Blue 5:14
  • 10 Annie, Let's Not Wait 4:43
  • 11 And If All... 1:19
  • 12 São Paulo 11:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata