What makes Wormwood by moe. notable?

Wormwood received positive reviews from critics, noted for its lyrical depth and musical experimentation, which helped solidify moe.'s status within the jam band community. The album peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, showcasing its commercial appeal among a growing audience. Released in 2003, Wormwood marked moe.'s fifth studio album and a continuation of their ascent in the jam band scene following their breakout with 1998's No Doy. At this point, the band had established a strong live presence and fanbase, leveraging their reputation for extended improvisation and tight-knit ensemble playing.

Wormwood works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, ethereal melodies for reflective moments and engaging guitar work for focus.

How many songs are on Wormwood?

Wormwood has 14 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Wormwood

moe. · 2003

57 min · 14 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant blend of psychedelic rock and indie sensibilities, infused with improvisational flair and intricate musicianship.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wormwood — The title track encapsulates the album’s thematic exploration of disillusionment through its vivid storytelling and dynamic shifts in tempo.
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Gone — This track stands out for its emotional weight and reflective lyrics, creating an intimate connection that resonates deeply with listeners.
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Crab Eyes — An adventurous composition that showcases the band's improvisational strengths, blending complex rhythms with an infectious groove.
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Kidstoys — This short interlude offers a whimsical contrast to the heavier themes of the album, highlighting the band's playful side and creativity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate musicianship with lyrical depth, appealing to both jam band fans and indie rock listeners.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes, such as the transition from the upbeat 'Okayalright' to the more introspective 'Gone'.
The lyrics across the album often employ abstract imagery, creating a sense of narrative depth that invites multiple interpretations.

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: 5/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
ethereal melodies for reflective moments
engaging guitar work for focus
wave-like pacing invites deep listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy explorative pieces

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2003, Wormwood marked moe.'s fifth studio album and a continuation of their ascent in the jam band scene following their breakout with 1998's No Doy. At this point, the band had established a strong live presence and fanbase, leveraging their reputation for extended improvisation and tight-knit ensemble playing.
Stylistic neighbors: Umphrey's McGee· Phish· Widespread Panic