What makes Thunder and Consolation by New Model Army notable?

'Thunder and Consolation' received widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and musicality, peaking at No. 16 on the UK Albums Chart. It has been influential within the post-punk scene and continues to resonate with audiences, noted for addressing themes like societal disillusionment and personal struggle. Released in 1989, 'Thunder and Consolation' was New Model Army's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Ghost of Cain'. At this point, the band had solidified their reputation for tackling social issues through music, making this album a significant entry in their discography as they navigated mainstream success while remaining true to their roots.

Who is Thunder and Consolation for?

Thunder and Consolation works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, reflective moments amidst anthemic energy and for late-night contemplation.

How many songs are on Thunder and Consolation?

Thunder and Consolation has 15 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Thunder and Consolation

New Model Army · 1989

64 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock

A rich tapestry of alternative rock and post-punk, blending melodic hooks with politically charged lyrics and anthemic choruses.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Green and Grey — This track features a driving rhythm and poignant lyrics that reflect on urban life and emotional isolation, showcasing the band's signature blend of melancholy and urgency.
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I Love the World — As an opening track, it sets an optimistic yet critical tone for the album, balancing a catchy melody with introspective lyrics about human existence.
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Vagabonds — The song stands out for its narrative depth, exploring themes of displacement and belonging through evocative imagery and a compelling chorus that invites listener participation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album combines strong melodies with politically charged lyrics, creating a memorable and impactful listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving rhythm and layered guitars, establishing a dynamic sound that persists through the first half.
Several tracks feature shifts in tempo, with 'Green and Grey' transitioning from a slow build to an anthemic chorus.
Lyrically, the songs often tackle social issues directly, with verses that lead into powerful, sing-along choruses.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
reflective moments amidst anthemic energy
for late-night contemplation
engaging storytelling through varied pacing

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified New Model Army's reputation and peaked at No. 16 on the UK Albums Chart.
Career context: Released in 1989, 'Thunder and Consolation' was New Model Army's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Ghost of Cain'. At this point, the band had solidified their reputation for tackling social issues through music, making this album a significant entry in their discography as they navigated mainstream success while remaining true to their roots.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cult· Killing Joke· The Sisters of Mercy