What makes You in Reverse by Built to Spill notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics and debuted at number 42 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant commercial achievement for the band. It has been noted for its influence on the indie rock scene, particularly for its intricate musical arrangements and lyrical depth, which resonated with both fans and musicians alike. You in Reverse is Built to Spill's sixth studio album, released in 2006 following their critically acclaimed record, Ancient Melodies of the Future. At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation as indie rock stalwarts while navigating changes in the music landscape shaped by digital evolution. This album continued to showcase Doug Martsch's distinctive songwriting and intricate guitar work.

Who is You in Reverse for?

You in Reverse works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, gradual builds and payoffs and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on You in Reverse?

You in Reverse has 10 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

You in Reverse

Built to Spill · 2006

54 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Expansive guitar-driven melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and vast.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Goin' Against Your Mind — This opener captures the album's essence with its sprawling instrumentation and reflective lyrics, setting a contemplative tone that persists throughout.
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Conventional Wisdom — The track stands out for its critique of societal norms wrapped in catchy melodies, blending serious themes with an upbeat tempo.
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Liar — With its poignant exploration of trust and deception, this song showcases the band's ability to fuse emotional honesty with dynamic musicality.

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 album features expansive melodies and introspective lyrics, creating a cohesive yet varied listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a nearly eight-minute track that gradually builds layers of guitar and vocals, setting a sprawling tone for the record.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections where melodies intertwine, allowing for moments of introspection amidst the lyrical content.
The last three tracks exhibit a noticeable drop in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the more energetic earlier songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
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

long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus

Where this album fits

Career context: You in Reverse is Built to Spill's sixth studio album, released in 2006 following their critically acclaimed record, Ancient Melodies of the Future. At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation as indie rock stalwarts while navigating changes in the music landscape shaped by digital evolution. This album continued to showcase Doug Martsch's distinctive songwriting and intricate guitar work.
Stylistic neighbors: Modest Mouse· The Shins· Death Cab for Cutie