When You See Yourself
Kings of Leon · 2021
51 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective journey through layered melodies and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the band's evolution over nearly two decades.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Bandit — Opening with a haunting melody, this track captures the essence of longing and vulnerability that permeates the album's narrative, making it a standout introduction.
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100,000 People — This song features rich instrumentation and contemplative lyrics that reflect on human connection and isolation, embodying the album's thematic core.
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Echoing — With its anthemic chorus and emotional depth, this track encapsulates the struggle between nostalgia and moving forward, resonating powerfully within the album's context.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends introspective lyrics with layered melodies, showcasing the band's evolution while maintaining a cohesive sound.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a mid-tempo groove with layered instrumentation, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued piano arrangement.
- Several songs feature extended instrumental sections that allow for atmospheric build-ups before returning to the vocal lines.
- The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, creating a reflective and mellow conclusion.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady pacing for reflective moments
- introspective themes of time
- consistent progression throughout album
- ideal for quiet evenings
- thoughtful background for contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party vibes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued evolution and introspection after a long hiatus.
- Career context
- When You See Yourself marks Kings of Leon's eighth studio album, arriving six years after their previous release, Walls. After a period of hiatus, the band returned with a sound that blends their Southern rock roots with more experimental elements, signaling a maturation in their songwriting and production approach.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The National· Band of Horses· My Morning Jacket
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 When You See Yourself, Are You Far Away 5:47
- 2 The Bandit 4:10
- 3 100,000 People 5:44
- 4 Stormy Weather 3:42
- 5 A Wave 5:23
- 6 Golden Restless Age 4:33
- 7 Time in Disguise 4:45
- 8 Supermarket 4:58
- 9 Claire & Eddie 4:52
- 10 Echoing 3:37
- 11 Fairytale 3:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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