We All Want the Same Things
Craig Finn · 2017
44 min · 10 tracks · post-punk
A reflective blend of narrative-driven lyrics and melodic hooks that capture the essence of everyday struggles and triumphs.
Top tracks — play these first
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Jester & June — This opening track sets the tone with its vivid storytelling and exploration of longing, encapsulating the album's thematic core right from the start.
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God in Chicago — The song intertwines personal reflection with urban imagery, demonstrating Finn’s knack for blending intimate narrative with broader cultural commentary.
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Be Honest — This closing track captures a sense of resolution and honesty, leaving listeners with a poignant reflection on relationships and authenticity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album effectively blends storytelling with melodic elements, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of narrative-driven lyrics that unfold stories across multiple tracks, inviting listeners to engage with the characters and situations presented.
- Melodic hooks are prevalent throughout, often appearing in the choruses, which enhances the accessibility of the reflective themes.
- Several tracks incorporate a gradual build-up in instrumentation, culminating in more dynamic arrangements that contrast with the introspective lyrics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- reflective storytelling with nuance
- melodic hooks for casual listening
- evening drive contemplative atmosphere
- emotional resonance in everyday moments
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of high-energy beats
- prefer standalone hit singles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- We All Want the Same Things marked Craig Finn's third solo album, following his 2015 release, Faith in the Future. At this point in his career, Finn was establishing himself as a prominent solo artist while still being known for his work with The Hold Steady. This album solidified his unique storytelling style outside of the band's rock framework.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Hold Steady· Modest Mouse· The National
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Jester & June 3:59
- 2 Preludes 4:16
- 3 Ninety Bucks 3:41
- 4 Birds Trapped in the Airport 4:41
- 5 God in Chicago 4:45
- 6 Rescue Blues 4:15
- 7 Tangletown 4:30
- 8 It Hits When It Hits 5:26
- 9 Tracking Shots 3:36
- 10 Be Honest 4:49
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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