We Were Here cover

We Were Here

Turin Brakes · 2013

54 min · 12 tracks · pop music

A reflective blend of acoustic melodies and poignant lyrics that explore themes of nostalgia and personal growth.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    We Were Here — The title track encapsulates the album's overarching theme of reflection and memory, utilizing rich harmonies to create an evocative atmosphere.
  • →
    Dear Dad — This track stands out for its intimate storytelling, as it conveys complex emotions surrounding familial relationships through poignant lyrics and a heartfelt melody.
  • →
    Stop the World — With its driving rhythm and contemplative lyrics, this song captures a sense of urgency and yearning for connection, showcasing the band's ability to blend introspective themes with catchy hooks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends acoustic melodies with personal storytelling, offering a reflective listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that build gradually, enhancing emotional impact.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

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

  • nostalgic reflections on personal growth
  • thoughtful moments for quiet introspection
  • gentle pacing for relaxed evenings
  • poignant storytelling through acoustic melodies

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2013, We Were Here is Turin Brakes' sixth studio album, following their 2007 release, Dark on Fire. At this point in their career, the duo was revisiting their roots while experimenting with a more mature sound, having taken a six-year hiatus before this project.
Stylistic neighbors
Ben Howard· The Paper Kites· Sufjan Stevens

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Time and Money 3:47
  • 2 We Were Here 3:41
  • 3 Dear Dad 4:01
  • 4 Blindsided Again 5:51
  • 5 Part of the World 4:00
  • 6 Stop the World 4:25
  • 7 Guess You Heard 4:37
  • 8 No Mercy 5:58
  • 9 Sleeper 4:49
  • 10 Inbetween 4:43
  • 11 Erase Everything 4:16
  • 12 Goodbye 4:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata