What makes Whatever and Ever Amen by Ben Folds Five notable?

The album achieved commercial success, peaking at number 42 on the Billboard 200 and featuring the hit single Brick, which received significant radio play. Its candid exploration of emotional vulnerability and relationship struggles resonated widely, influencing a generation of alternative rock artists. Released on March 18, 1997, Whatever and Ever Amen was Ben Folds Five's second album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying its unique blend of alternative rock and pop sensibilities, gaining traction in the mainstream with hits like Brick.

Who is Whatever and Ever Amen for?

Whatever and Ever Amen works well if you're into humor woven into heartbreak, wave-like emotional dynamics and relatable storytelling with depth.

How many songs are on Whatever and Ever Amen?

Whatever and Ever Amen has 12 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Whatever and Ever Amen

Ben Folds Five · 1997

50 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Piano-driven melodies intertwine with sharp, sardonic lyrics that evoke the complexities of relationships and personal angst.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Brick — This track poignantly narrates a painful experience surrounding loss and regret through its understated piano arrangement and evocative storytelling.
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One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces — Opening the album with an energetic piano riff, this song captures Folds' signature blend of humor and angst while addressing feelings of frustration and rejection.
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Song for the Dumped — With biting lyrics and a catchy chorus, this track brilliantly channels the raw emotions of heartbreak while maintaining an upbeat tempo, showcasing Folds' lyrical wit.
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Kate — This song stands out for its playful yet heartfelt lyrics about unrequited love, combining intricate piano work with a memorable melody that highlights Folds' songwriting prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album features strong songwriting and dynamic arrangements, balancing upbeat tracks with introspective moments.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a fast-paced piano riff that sets a lively tone, while the second track shifts to a more subdued tempo.
Several tracks feature contrasting dynamics, such as 'Brick,' which employs a soft piano backdrop against emotionally charged lyrics.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

humor woven into heartbreak
wave-like emotional dynamics
relatable storytelling with depth
engaging sing-along moments

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 18, 1997, Whatever and Ever Amen was Ben Folds Five's second album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying its unique blend of alternative rock and pop sensibilities, gaining traction in the mainstream with hits like Brick.
Stylistic neighbors: They Might Be Giants· Fountains of Wayne· Cake