What makes Try Too Hard by The Dave Clark Five notable?

'Try Too Hard' reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart, marking a significant position during a prolific time for the band. Its release contributed to the momentum of beat music in the mid-1960s and helped establish The Dave Clark Five as a key player in pop rock history. Released on May 1, 1966, 'Try Too Hard' was The Dave Clark Five's fifth studio album, following their commercial success with hits like 'Glad All Over.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their place in the British Invasion, producing a collection of tracks that showcased their signature sound while competing with contemporaries like The Beatles.

Who is Try Too Hard for?

Try Too Hard works well if you're into quick bursts of catchy melodies, playful energy for lively gatherings and for upbeat afternoon vibes.

How many songs are on Try Too Hard?

Try Too Hard has 10 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

Released 60 years ago

Try Too Hard

The Dave Clark Five · 1966

20 min · 10 tracks · pop rock

A vibrant blend of pop rock and beat music, underscored by catchy melodies and spirited vocal harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Try Too Hard — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its infectious chorus and relatable theme of romantic anxiety, making it an enduring favorite.
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Today — This song features a bright, uplifting melody paired with lyrics that celebrate living in the moment, showcasing the band's pop sensibility.
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Looking In — With its introspective lyrics and poignant arrangement, this track stands out for its emotional depth amidst the more upbeat songs.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and energetic performances but lacks standout depth or cohesion.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a driving beat and layered vocal harmonies, setting an energetic tone.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the lively interaction between band members.
The last three songs slow down the tempo significantly, creating a contrast with the earlier upbeat tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

quick bursts of catchy melodies
playful energy for lively gatherings
for upbeat afternoon vibes
short tracks for instant enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

seeking lengthy immersive experiences
prefer deep emotional explorations

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on May 1, 1966, 'Try Too Hard' was The Dave Clark Five's fifth studio album, following their commercial success with hits like 'Glad All Over.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their place in the British Invasion, producing a collection of tracks that showcased their signature sound while competing with contemporaries like The Beatles.
Stylistic neighbors: The Animals· The Hollies· The Kinks