We Chase the Waves cover

We Chase the Waves

Sundowner · 2010

30 min · 10 tracks · acoustic music

A blend of introspective folk and punk energy, creating a raw yet melodic soundscape that invites reflection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    In the Flicker — The opening track sets an intimate tone with its poignant lyrics and delicate instrumentation, establishing the album's emotional core.
  • →
    Whales and Sharks — This track combines vivid imagery with a driving rhythm, encapsulating the album's thematic exploration of longing and connection.
  • →
    Mouth of a Tiger — With its engaging melody and reflective lyrics, this song highlights McCaughan’s storytelling ability and showcases the band's folk punk sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth, though it may not stand out significantly in the broader genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that sets a lively tone, but transitions to slower, more introspective pieces by the middle.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, while others focus on solo vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar.
  • The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and personal storytelling, which are prominent in the first half of the album.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
5/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • What Beadie Said

    The narrative shifts to address lost opportunities directly, emphasizing a sense of urgency and regret.

    This direct address creates a personal connection that contrasts with the more abstract themes found elsewhere on the album.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 In the Flicker 3:31
  • 2 Araby 3:00
  • 3 Whales and Sharks 2:56
  • 4 As the Crow Flies 4:16
  • 5 Baseball's Sad Lexicon 1:36
  • 6 All Prologue 2:15
  • 7 Mouth of a Tiger 4:32
  • 8 Second Hand 1:44
  • 9 Jewel of the Midwest 3:29
  • 10 What Beadie Said 3:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata