Yesterday Was Dramatic – Today Is OK cover

Yesterday Was Dramatic – Today Is OK

Múm · 2000

67 min · 10 tracks · post-rock

Ethereal soundscapes blend with whimsical melodies, creating a surreal atmosphere that dances between melancholy and joy.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I’m 9 Today — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its playful synths and childlike wonder, encapsulating Múm's signature blend of innocence and complexity.
  • →
    The Ballad of the Broken Birdie Records — Here, Múm crafts a hauntingly beautiful narrative that intertwines delicate vocals and intricate arrangements, showcasing their ability to evoke deep emotional resonance.
  • →
    Smell Memory — This track features an expansive soundscape that captures ephemeral moments, highlighting Múm's talent for creating immersive auditory experiences that linger long after listening.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's ethereal soundscapes and innovative structures create a unique listening experience within post-rock.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of layered instrumentation, with soft strings and electronic elements weaving in and out of the mix.
  • Tracks often shift dynamics abruptly, such as 'Asleep on a Train' transitioning from quiet introspection to more vibrant soundscapes.
  • Several pieces incorporate field recordings or found sounds, adding an organic texture that complements the melodic content.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • whimsical melodies for daydreaming
  • steady flow for reflective moments
  • melancholic yet joyful atmosphere
  • for lazy afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced music

Where this album fits

Career context
When Múm released 'Yesterday Was Dramatic – Today Is OK' in 2000, they were emerging as significant players in the post-rock scene, following their debut album 'Yesterday Was Dramatic'. This release marked a moment where the band began to refine their unique blend of electronic elements with acoustic instrumentation, establishing their distinctive sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Sigur Rós· Ólafur Arnalds· The Album Leaf

Tracklist

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

  • 1 I’m 9 Today 4:42
  • 2 Smell Memory 9:21
  • 3 There Is a Number of Small Things 6:31
  • 4 Random Summer 3:17
  • 5 Asleep on a Train 7:17
  • 6 Awake on a Train 9:23
  • 7 The Ballad of the Broken Birdie Records 5:25
  • 8 The Ballad of the Broken String 4:45
  • 9 Sunday Night Just Keeps on Rolling 8:11
  • 10 Slow Bicycle 8:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata