What makes Tooth & Nail by Billy Bragg notable?

The album received positive reviews, highlighting Bragg's ability to engage with both personal and political themes. It showcases his enduring relevance in the music scene, especially within the alternative rock genre, demonstrating how he can still resonate with listeners while addressing contemporary issues. Additionally, it reflects a maturation in his songwriting style, garnering attention from both fans and critics alike. Tooth & Nail is Billy Bragg's first studio album in five years, following the 2008 release of Mr. Love & Justice. At this point in his career, Bragg had transitioned from a politically charged young artist to a seasoned musician, exploring themes of personal and societal change with a more introspective lens. This album also marked his continued evolution as he blended traditional folk influences with contemporary rock sensibilities.

Who is Tooth & Nail for?

Tooth & Nail works well if you're into steady pacing with resolution, introspective reflections on life and uplifting themes of hope.

How many songs are on Tooth & Nail?

Tooth & Nail has 12 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Tooth & Nail

Billy Bragg · 2013

42 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective blend of folk and rock, laced with sharp social commentary and personal introspection.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
No One Knows Nothing Anymore — This track encapsulates the confusion and uncertainty of modern life through its poignant lyrics and catchy melody, standing out as a centerpiece of the album’s theme.
→
There Will Be a Reckoning — A powerful commentary on social justice that blends personal reflection with broader societal critique, showcasing Bragg's lyrical prowess and relevance.
→
Tomorrow’s Going to Be a Better Day — This optimistic closing track offers a hopeful message amidst the struggles portrayed throughout the album, serving as a powerful resolution to Bragg's narrative.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The album balances personal and political themes with strong songwriting and cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a gentle acoustic guitar in 'January Song', establishing a reflective tone that persists throughout.
The last three tracks shift towards more hopeful themes, with 'Tomorrow’s Going to Be a Better Day' concluding on an uplifting note.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing with resolution
introspective reflections on life
uplifting themes of hope
thoughtful storytelling in each track

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced energy
seek purely instrumental sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: Tooth & Nail is Billy Bragg's first studio album in five years, following the 2008 release of Mr. Love & Justice. At this point in his career, Bragg had transitioned from a politically charged young artist to a seasoned musician, exploring themes of personal and societal change with a more introspective lens. This album also marked his continued evolution as he blended traditional folk influences with contemporary rock sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Strummer· The Clash· Graham Parker