What makes When Under Ether by PJ Harvey notable?

This EP marked a significant moment in PJ Harvey's career as it showcased her continual artistic experimentation and received praise from critics. It further cemented her influence on the alternative rock genre, with reviews highlighting its atmospheric qualities and emotional depth, contributing to her legacy as an innovative songwriter. Released in early 2007, When Under Ether was part of PJ Harvey's evolution following her critically acclaimed album, Uh Huh Her. By this time, she had solidified her status as a pioneering artist in alternative rock, known for her experimental sound and bold lyrical content, while continuing to push the boundaries of her music with each release.

How many songs are on When Under Ether?

When Under Ether has 2 tracks, running approximately 4 minutes.

When Under Ether

PJ Harvey · 2007

4 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal melodies and haunting vocals intertwine, creating a dreamlike soundscape that explores themes of loss and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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When Under Ether — The title track encapsulates the EP's haunting atmosphere with its sparse instrumentation and raw emotional delivery, reflecting themes of vulnerability and existential contemplation.
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Wait — This track contrasts the opener with a more rhythmic structure, emphasizing the tension between anticipation and restlessness, showcasing Harvey's range as a songwriter.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, creating an immersive soundscape that rewards multiple listens.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build, with layered instrumentation that gradually intensifies before receding into a sparse arrangement.
Vocals are delivered in a breathy, ethereal style, often overlapping with the instrumental sections to create a dreamlike quality.
The second track introduces a more rhythmic element, contrasting with the first by incorporating a steady drumbeat and a more pronounced bass line.

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: 8/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases PJ Harvey's artistic experimentation and evolution in sound.
Career context: Released in early 2007, When Under Ether was part of PJ Harvey's evolution following her critically acclaimed album, Uh Huh Her. By this time, she had solidified her status as a pioneering artist in alternative rock, known for her experimental sound and bold lyrical content, while continuing to push the boundaries of her music with each release.
Stylistic neighbors: Anna Calvi· Bat for Lashes· St. Vincent