The Seldom Seen Kid

this started out boring as HELL but then picked up!

Was unfamiliar. The studio album is nice but the live version recorded at Abbey Road with the BBC Orchestra is something else, epic in scope and the emotion is ratcheted up. The album is a nice listen. The live version is stellar.

Fine

Very sentimental, melodic music. Sweet and calm. Tho unsure if this belongs to the top 1001 albums

Pretty good album great harmonies and producing very impressed

Kinda like beck.

I don’t really know how to describe it but everything on this album felt quite surface level. Maybe I was missing something. I generally found the album reasonable to listen to and there are a few certifiable earworms that I’ve heard before, but I don’t think the style is quite for me, it’s a bit “earnest northerner”. An album where the answer to “would I care if I never heard it again” is a no.

At times I was expecting some pan pipes to cut in and was ready to get my mystical wolf howling T-shirt out. Thankfully that vibe was only short lived (mainly first song) and it interweaved with some more substantial rock to counter the plinky plonkyness. I don't think it does a great job as a rock band and doesn't quite blend to make it alternative well either. It does have promise but not enough of anything. I found I was at times getting bored as this went on. Strong side of 2 or middle 3 star. Great voice as well. Credit overall as don't think its a bad album. Its the phrase "it's not you, it's me".

It's very difficult to dislike this album, its well written and does have moments of brilliance. "Grounds for Divorce" and "One Day Like This" are great tracks and real ear worms. Listening to those in isolation and I would be confident I was listening to a four star + album. The problem is that there is too much filler. Too many middle-of-the-road tracks that are perfectly fine but tend to fade into the background and are instantly forgettable. It's regrettable because the potential is there but it just doesn't quite meet the threshold of a great album. One to see live at a festival at the time.

Deleted my review but I really enjoyed this when I first listened. Quite a surprise and I really like one of the songs in here.

Seldom heard review which is even keel.

Liked this more the more I listened to it. A couple of standout tracks (Grounds for Divorce and One Day Like This).

Please don’t get me wrong — there’s genuinely great music on 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘦𝘭𝘥𝘰𝘮 𝘚𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘒𝘪𝘥. The arrangements are rich and often stunning, at times even incorporating a chamber orchestra to powerful effect. Guy Garvey’s voice carries warmth and wisdom, and the band knows exactly how to build a song slowly, gracefully, and with emotional weight. But it also arrived at a moment when post-Britpop was slowly fading, and you can feel that shift in the sound. There’s a sense of polish here that edges toward the overly refined. What once felt intimate and alternative now begins to resemble a more diluted form of alternative/indie rock — no longer raw, but carefully arranged for broader appeal. Beautiful in moments, yes, but also a reminder of a turning point: the tail end of a genre before it was fully absorbed into the mainstream.

Had to wait until the 4th song to hear something good. 3.

I feel like this is what Coldplay would sound like if they were decent. Personal enjoyment: 3/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5

Enjoyed this. Felt very cathartic.

Enjoyed it well enough. Like Radiohead but more grounded and less transcendent. “The Bones of You” knocks. There’s some cool guitar work and production choices. The lead vocal is good and dynamic. The runtime is a little bloated. I have to take an aside to talk about “Grounds for Divorce”. It crashed through like an American truck commercial. It sounds like a fucking energy drink advertisement. I instinctively waited for the “Skip Ad” button to appear. What the fuck happened there. I know 2008 was a while ago now, but god damn has that kind of stomp-clap rock orchestration with the fuzzy riffs aged like milk. I cannot emphasize the whiplash that incurred enough.

A pretty decent indie rock album. At its best when it’s sentimental and atmospheric, at its weakest when it’s attempting to be more conventional (e.g. Grounds For Divorce, which in my opinion reminds me of early 2010s radio rock in all the wrong ways) or uplifting. Still, the melodies are well-crafted and the overall experience was quite pleasant, although at times I do feel it got a bit too mellow at times. Favourite tracks were The Bones of You and The Fix.

I don't know it's fine I guess, add to the listen again pile as my listening experience today was a bit disjointed at work

One nice hit on here and the rest is decent.

Decent album. I liked two tracks: 1. Grounds for Divorce, which reminds me of the Black Keys (and is the only track on the album with that sound), and 2. Whether to Fly. It's kind of a high-3 for me.

Recognized a few of these songs from KEXP. The sorts of songs that neither grab me, nor make me consider changing stations. The whole album has that feel, with the more effective ones being ones that screw more blues or more goth.

I was concerned by the fact that, despite this being released when I squarely would have still been checking out new music, going to shows, and browsing music blogs, I'd never heard of this band or album. I had hopes - it's an indie rock band! Putting out music in the late aughts! But nope, it's another British also-ran that kind of sounds like better bands here & there (a dash of Black Keys on 'Grounds for Divorce,' heavy Coldplay vibes on their one big hit I'd never heard) - but ultimately nothing special.

Sigh. Somehow, Elbow’s earnestness stopped working for me at their highest point.

Pretty good. Quality musicianship throughout the entire album, with well-crafted tunes. I wasn't totally gripped by it, but several tracks stood out.

Un poco largo pero guay

when iwake up ni the omronasdoidfnoifkla i thinkg about my babybybfysbdfyabsdpfbajksdbjgu

No song here is bad and the album is cohesive, it's also at an advantage because they are English and its rock (both things I like) but if I really think about it despite enjoying the album I'm almost certainly not coming back many songs if any. Gets a little bit boring as it goes on, nothing really super catchy or engaging to it. Starlings - enjoying this slow opening, the gentle piano, I thought it was going to become a huge orchestra but I kind of prefer that it didn't and just lets us sit with it. I like the build up and release, they really play with dynamics here. It's quite a simple track in many ways but quite stand out regardless. The Bones of You - wow, loving the vocals here (at least initially), I like the distorted sound going on and the guitar that comes in. I think my joy did decrease over time with this track - still good overall. Mirrorball - nice, simple drums, track is enjoyable enough Grounds for Divorce - I like the guitar on this, good percussion, and again like how he sounds. An Audience With The Pope - decent, got pretty boring for me overall though. Wheather to Fly - nicer than the previous, this album is pretty laid back, as in a pretty relaxing listen, this song included. The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver - like this quite a lot, I read up on the idea behind it and like the sentiment too, "tower crane driver is higher paid [...] but completely on his own". The Fix - pretty good. This album has kind of fell into a place of just being pretty good for me at this point. I've grown bored of it. Some Riot - sadder song, this was the first time I wasn't super sure about a song on this album, but I think it upholds the general standard. His higher vocal made me smile (didn't expect it). One Day Like This - this is more fun, good stuff, maybe a little long for me to be coming back to. Friend Of Ours - one of the sadder tracks, a satisfying enough end. Best - Starlings, Grounds For Divorce, The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver Worst - An Audience With The Pope, The Fix, Some Riot

Sounds like Peter Gabriel singing.

really disappointing, knowing Grounds For Divorce I was expecting way more from this, undoubtably a great song writer but the album underwhelmed

Pretty good. I enjoyed the distinct dream-like sound and production. I also really enjoyed the melodies on tracks like "Grounds for Divorce" and "Friend of Ours". I did find that songs like "Weather to Fly" a little grating to listen to with the repetitive lines. Favourite Track(s): Grounds for Divorce, The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver Least Favourite Track(s): Weather to Fly

Elbow has some good songs, but on the bulk they're usually pretty uninteresting. One of those The National type bands that people seem to love not their just SO boring. 2.5/5

Var väl helt ok!

Fiiiiiine, but boring. Had I been given a copy of this in 2003 by a time traveler, I might have been fully on board, but in 2025, I've moved on. 2.5

i knew grounds for divorce but none of the rest of the album. this was juuuuust on the side of enjoyable for me. 2.5

Elbow is original band and i really like Guy Garvey’s voice which sound quite like Peter Gabriel. Seldom seen kid is seen as Elbow classic, but i think they’ve made better albums than this.

Not a bad album overall. Could probably listen to a bit more, but would get bored fairly quickly. 3/5

Dudes came over and played burnout Need to sleep more

Fairly solid. A few songs I absolutely loved. But mostly good stuff that doesn’t tip over into greatness. 3.5/5

Great album title! Great songs but...I don't like Guy Garvey's voice for a full album unfortunately...

Not too bad actually, liked it more than I expected. Is my life forever changed after listening? No but there are worse albums on here.

I have never heard of them before. I liked the piano parts etc. I’m not sure I’d rate it among the best albums of all time, maybe I’d give it another listen though.

Feels like a mix of Coldplay and Radiohead, with their own added flair. A bit reductive, but that's what it sounds like to me. Could have sworn I've heard Grounds for Divorce somewhere. Good song although very different from the rest of the tracklist. But ultimately, not really my thing. Maybe part of it is I'm not from the UK, so this band isn't an "essential" band in the US (although I think I've heard of them before), but yeah, not feeling this one. It's fine.

Songs range from vaguely sinister to end credits music. Ngl I dug it though.

Weird one for me. There's some nice moments across this record like the opener and The Fix, but overall lacks anything to make it memorable. The riff on Grounds for Divorce had me giggling once I thought about how it sounds like it should accompany someone saying "THE NEW TOYOTA TUNDRA" on an ad. Some other moments like Mirrorball were just screaming "wow this must've been profound in 2008, or at least it was trying to...". Weather to Fly just annoyed me, as did the sub bass on Loneliness of a Crane Driver which sounded like someone hasn't properly fastened their number plate down after install two Kicker 12" badboys in the back of the car. Overall, I can accept this album is well done, it just didn't leave me feeling anything. 5/10.

Tell you what I was not optimistic listening to the first track, but despite this being basically opposite of my taste I didn’t hate it so props to Mr armpit for that.

Probably the most what the fuck nothing pick on this album for me so far. I've never heard anyone talk about it, not critics, not music fans, very little mainstream attention. A random '08 album. I hated this on first listen. So much so I couldn't finish it. I picked it up fron where I left off the next day. This is a certified I would have loved this in highschool. Sounds like 90% of indie art rock from the late 00s. I found his vocals campy and cringe. But then I kept listening and maybe it was that opening track starlings and that "darling is this love" that kept me restarting it but damn it, it works. Don't get me wrong there's some major stinkers on here. But it also keeps me coming back despite how many criticism I have. And im thankful its on the list. Will recommend to my brother 👍 7/10

It's like if Sting were the lead singer of the Imagine Dragons. I mean that it a good way (as in, this is better than Imagine Dragons). It's a little operatic and over-produced, but I like it.

It sounds similar to Radiohead and Coldplay which it's not bad, but I don't care for it in the end. Its not the type of music I will replay often.

Like a 3.5

Again, never heard of this band before. Some interesting parts musically and lyrically.

pretty good! never heard of these guys but I would listen again

I like Elbow the most when they layer multiple melodies on top of each other and lean into the orchestration and over-the-topness. Unfortunately they only seem to do that once or twice per album.

It's fine. Not really much else to say. Some of the songs are good, but there are some snoozers on here as well.

A middling album. Grounds is the only track I full enjoyed. Lots of boring tracks. They do have a unique sound which is cool.

Kinda boring. Not bad.

Decent listen.

É um bom álbum. Mas meio que não leva a lugar algum. Me lembrou um pré Imagine Dragons com um pouco de Arcade Fire. Mas é legalzinho. Gostei de Mirrorball, Weather to Fly, The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Drive e Friend Of Ours.

"The Seldom Heard Record" - I enjoyed this, but it's a record I'll probably never revisit.

арт индюшка. местами доставляет, местами отменяет доставку

Not my cuppa tea, but can remember “One Day Like This”, being a huge chart topper when I was a kid!

A more brooding, contemplative Coldplay without the star power.

6/10 I listened to this album a lot with my dad and my sister when it first came out - we were all fans - and surprisingly my sister still often listens to 'build a rocket boys!' despite her music taste having changed substantially in the years since. This album held up much better than I thought it might. On the one hand, Elbow's sound feels a little trite and easy to parody, factors that contribute to my surprise in them being included on this list. On the other hand the instrumentation is beautifully done: the swelling strings and crisp production creating an incredibly spacious sound. Guy's vocals are distinctive and fit perfectly with the sounds they create in this album. Surprising amount of variety in the album, with the vocals the only real constant stylistically: 'Grounds for Divorce' kicks in with its bluesy feel and thumping drums to breathe fresh air into the middle of the album. The melody on the main vocal hook is also very appealing to me. 'The Fix' is cool - it feels a bit like something from a musical. Songs like 'The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver' get a little bogged down in their grandiosity. 'One Day Like This' remains an outstanding piece of music. It's a good album, carefully crafted, with plenty of good songs, but I suppose it falls well short of greatness, or provoking a sufficient emotional response to really stick with me. It's hard to imagine that this would still be worthy of inclusion on an 1001 albums list written 20 or even 10 years from now. Best songs: Grounds For Divorce, One Day Like This Listens: 3

I could have sworn that I've listened to an album by Elbow before, but after looking at their discography, I don't think that I have. But now that I'm pulling up this album on Spotify, I see that I've added "One Day Like This" to my liked songs. I'm gonna say that I've never listened to an Elbow album before, and I'm curious to see if "One Day Like This" is going to be familiar to me. I think I can definitively say that other than "One Day Like This," I've never listened to Elbow before. This album wasn't really my jam, but I still thought it was well made. The songwriting was fantastic and brimming with emotion, and the arrangements were really beautiful. Despite those factors though, this album was a bit boring at times, and it felt a bit tedious and overwrought at times. Once I got to "One Day Like This," I immediately remembered it. I don't know where I first heard it, but I think it's an incredible song. The vocals are incredibly uplifting, and the strings create an atmosphere that's like walking outside on a bright day after spending two hours in a movie theater. I feel like I just want to float away when listening to "One Day Like This." I thought "Starlings" was good too. The bright blasts of sound were great and really punched up the overall song. The guitar on "Grounds for Divorce" was great, and it really stood out from the rest of the album. Other than that, The Seldom Seen Kid was good, but I didn't think it was anything to write home about.

Decent with some top songs in it 7/10

Weirdly accessible and off-putting at the same time.

Its fine. Sounds just different enough to similar acts to merit existence. Shades of radiohead, L. Cohen, bowie etc. Not real sure what justifies it being on the list. Need to get a copy of the book sometime and see how cogent the arguments are for some of these.

Sweet, soft, nondescript - the sugar cube on the cover is appropriate.

i feel like this album is a precursor to the many album in the 2010's which sound similar to that, which is cool. nice backing instruments in the strings when they have them :)

I seriously need to stop looking at the reviews of the albums before I listen to them. I got SO excited about the prospect of a mix of Sting and Coldplay, as those are my favourite bands and artists ever. However, I was delivered a typical British Indie rock album... Like sure, it kinda sounds like Sting, but if he sang in a heavy British accent, it does have Coldplay vibes, but nothing like the brilliance of those two. I'm sure if they didn't make this so vibey and a bit dreamy, and leaned into the rock element of the album, minus the real British accent, it could be brilliant. But no! It wasn't bad, just disappointing. So sure, I'll rate this another 3, like I don't have enough 3s on my list.

Lyrically it was very good so I can appreciate it on that level it musically not really my taste xxx

It wasn’t for me but not the worst.

I've always felt that Elbow were over-hyped and this album doesn't do much to dispel that feeling. My favourite track on the album is the single "Grounds for Divorce".

Don’t listen to this if your feeling a bit down

It took me a long time to listen to this album, but it's better than I expected. Elbow really feels like an early version of Mumford and Sons (in a weird way). This album has some really interesting songs and really encapsulates the transition from 2000s indie rock to the stomp clap folk rock. Best Songs: The Bones of You, Grounds for Divorce Worst Songs: TLOATCD, Some Riot

No bad at all.

If you're an English artist/band with any talent whatsoever, you apparently belong on an "albums you must listen to before you die" list. Keep in mind, it's a good album. I enjoyed it. But I can probably think of a hundred albums from the last 25 years that could just as easily replace this one. Anyways... regarding the album itself - it does have intricate songwriting and good storytelling with a very melancholic feel. Does well mixing orchestral elements with rock instrumentation, and (from my understanding), this was self-produced by the band, which may account for why it maintains a raw sound.

Nfm

I found Elbow's The Seldom Seen Kid to be reminiscent of Coldplay, but a lot less pretentious. Unique lyrics with some beautiful music. The album flows so well, one song into another, showing how much craft went into it, again like Coldplay. As a result, The Seldom Seen Kid was monotone without too much variety. But this moody alternative rock was what I was in the mood for today, so I'm not complaining! 3.5

Not bad, but not a fave. A lot of the indie/alt rock from this period had a tendency to all sound very one note and be particularly drone-y. There are still elements of that droning sound here, don't get me wrong, but these guys do find a way to keep things sounding interesting and engaging from track to track. This kept me curious throughout the entire album, and at times the dissonant sounds they used left me feeling somewhat uncomfortable. Ultimately, that is not a bad thing, because I welcome an interesting listening experience. At the end of the day though, I didn't find this to be too memorable. But it was fine.

A few likable tracks. But overall, too much like Coldplay for my tastes.

Started off interesting. They've clearly got some talent. But the vast majority of songs felt pretty similar. Might be worthwhile checking out their other albums to see if they have any that are a bit more dynamic. 3.5*

I want to like this band I really do, but there’s just something that doesn’t really gel with me. I can’t put my finger on it, is it the music, is it the lyrics is it Guys voice? (I like listening to his show on BBC6 Music) I don’t know. Ahhhh! I listened to this twice today and apart from the famous one and a couple of other songs it just didn’t do it for me, sorry Guy!

Fine

.25 .25 1 .25 .25

Sometimes its jazzy and smooth, like a Sting album or even Elvis Costello. But then you get slapped with orchestral movie soundtrack numbers that aren't catchy at all and I wonder wth I'm listening to.

Pretty good. Will need to give it another listen soon to let it soak. 3.5/5

This wasn't bad but didn't do too much for me.

interesting but didn't love love every song. definitely some good songs though

A nice album, with some very interesting bits, majority of it sounds attractive and approachable. However, I'm not sure how much real soul is there in it. Still, I've liked it.

#530. Music for middle aged divorced wine-moms. 3/5: fine, I guess

I really enjoyed this album. Never heard of this group before.

Cinematic pop, passionate vocals

A perfectly fine album. Coldplay/Radiohead influences are clear but it never really comes close. What the hell is going on with Grounds for Divorce??? Why is there a car commercial song in the middle of this album??? I don’t mind it, but certainly something I have no interest in listening to again.

I always wonder how random this is as it's been giving me a lot of indie rock/pop records from the 90s-00s lately. This one is pretty good though. I always enjoyed grounds for divorce as a rocker but the rest if a lot more orchestral/soft indie feel at times too. Very grand instrumentation/theatrical.

First couple tracks made me think it was going to be similar to spiritualized, instead it ended up being way too much like Coldplay

Some really beautiful moments but not all in my wheelhouse. The first track is incredible.

Interesting album -- for me, like a quintessential 3.5 stars.

Never heard of this band, somewhat reminiscent of Blue October and Hinder, overall decent listen.

36/1001 - Seems somewhat derivative of Radiohead but I mildly enjoyed it.

Standard 2000's british alternative rock album inspired by Radiohead and Coldplay

Paar Songs sehr gut die anderen sehr Schlecht Bisschen unbalanced aber als Gesamtpaket trotzdem echt gut

как он мне надоел в своё время. но за вчера не уловила что мне казалось на Рахманинова похоже, теперь это будет меня мучить…

I had never heard of this band. Does it kind of sound like slow Muse? Maybe? In rainbows by Radiohead? Sounds well produced and recorded with a lot of care. It was okay, won’t come back but not unenjoyable.

Is 2.5 stars an option? This is an extremely average indie rock album. Definitely not bad, just not exciting. I’m a little surprised I’ve never heard of this band before given the genre and when it as released. “Grounds for Divorce” is good and I swear had to have been used in a commercial but I can’t seem to remember which.

Honestly, don't remember much from this album.

Tönt gut und würde sicher noch besser gefallen bei mehrfachem hören.

It's good to hear some other songs by Elbow that One Day Like This, but that song still is amazing and the standout track of the album. Overall I enjoyed it and would probably listen again. Some of the lyrics really drew me in, but some songs passed me by. I'll probably have a dig around the rest of their work and see what else grabs me

Quite indie

meh

Fav song: Mirrorball Pretty good album! A bit vanilla in a lot of places, but very beautiful in other parts. Friend Of Ours is a big stand out in particular. Also love the lyrics.

Not bad. Never really gets out of first and wasn’t interesting enough to merit higher

Possibly my favourite artist/group named after a body part (maybe after Hand Simmer). I quite liked the album overall, although some bits dragged and felt a bit dull. Now I think about it without "Grounds for Divorce" and "One Day Like This" it would have been quite shit... a bit like the Elbow... one of the shitter joints in the body.

Enjoyed a few songs. Apart from that, mostly uninteresting album. Standout songs: Ground for Divorce An Audience with the Pope One Day Like This

Good band. Good music.

I like the vibe and the music but by the end I was well ready for it to be over. I would listen to this again but probably only half of the album at a time.

Sonically sound but quite boring. Best: Grounds for Divorce Worst: The Fix

A couple of classic tracks starlings and one day like this - enjoyable

It took a few songs to warm up to this but I gotta say this was better than expected. I really liked the orchestral indie feel throughout the album. As well as some pleasant singing that was quite soothing. Very solid. Top 3 Favorites: Weather To Fly, The Bones Of You, and One Day Like This 3.25-3.50/5

Recognised the band name but not the album, which is slightly odd because it won the Mercury Prize and I was big into music around that time. Anyway, this was nice and pleasant. I instantly recognised and really enjoyed 'Grounds for Divorce' The rest didn't exactly blow me away but maybe a grower? Will give it a few more spins.

It’s good. Very nice to listen to - Coldpay’s dark and gloomy cousin

Good album, but a bit… boring? Might need to get them more of a listen to get into it more. Definitely could be a grower

Solid okay album gets a solid 3.

A cross between Radiohead and Sting? A few good songs but a few weak ones too.

Started off dull. Warmed to it eventually. Bits remind me of Band of Bees. Not sure of the replay value but I’m glad I was exposed to them.

It had promise, but fell flat for me. I can’t really pin down what I didn’t like about it - too “fluffy,” somehow. Best track: Grounds for Divorce 3-3.5?

I really like grounds for divorce, it’s a great song. Garvey’s voice is amazing. However the album just crosses the line into sappy for me. Some of the songs are really sweet with clever lyrics but it’s a bit too slow. I feel like by the end they’re just trying to target the Sunday afternoon Glastonbury market.

Ruhiges Album, dass anfänglich eher langweilig wirkt. Ein bisschen „Smiths“ steckt im Klang der Band. Mit den Songs „The Fix“, „One Day Like This“ und „Some Riot“ taut das Album auf und ist insgesamt ganz ok.

This was a group I'd never heard of before and I enjoyed this listen. Nothing to write home about but nothing to complain about either.

Jaren 00 radio indie met ‘whoohohoos’ enzo. Komt niet op gang, beetje teleurstellend album. Voelt als een saaie radiovriendelijke versie van Coldplay of Radiohead. Aan de reviews te lezen ben ik niet de enige die dat voelt

Intro Starlings grabbed me with its quiet melody. Hard to describe what this is but I like the second track The Bones of You, big beefy low end. Grounds for Divorce has a similar sound with pretty good riffs. I like An Audience With The Pope more, a midpaced plodder with the backing keyboards defining the track. Weather To Fly is good also, indie rock vibes. I like One Day Like This too, although it leans a bit too Coldplay for me. The last track is a mellow, poignant closer. Everything's very cinematic sounding, possibly to a fault, and I don't like all the songs. But this is still worth a listen.

Beautiful record.

Kuullostaa hieman indie musiikilta!

Favourites: Mirrorball

I liked the song with the sign

Love Elbow. This is a great album. Not thier best album but still really good.

Never heard this before. Some good songs, the whole album kinda blends together though

Great value Coldplay with some interesting exceptions.

Good overall. 3.5 stars

Kromě Grounds for divorce překvapivě nic moc.

Sometimes you can instantly pinpoint the year an album was released—and that’s not always a bad thing. Had a nice nostalgic time with this.

I never got into Elbow but always heard good things about them from people whose opinions I respect. This is no different -- listenable, but drab and uninspired

I got to this a couple of years late, but some time around 2010 i loved this album and listened to it a lot. Perhaps too much, or maybe my tastes have changed a bit, because although I still like it, it doesn't quite connect with me in the same way it used to.

So this is basically an indie-fied Coldplay. Truth be told, it’s alright. It’s better than my last Mercury Prize winner (A Little Deeper by Ms. Dynamite). But the songs just go on for a while. Like why are there so many 5-minute songs? It makes the album feel a bit padded out. Honestly, this whole Mercury Prize shows me the British have a mid taste of music. Favorite track: One Day Like This Other Hits: Weather to Fly, Friend of Ours, Grounds for Divorce, Mirrorball

When I first heard this album I kind of thought is was Royskopp with Sting on vocals. There is a worldly-psychedelic vibe to it, so naturally, I dug it! Mirrorball and Grounds for Divorce were key tracks. My only real complaint is the album felt like it petered out by the end, which was a little anticlimactic. Still enjoyed it.

Blegh. Boring alt rock. Reminds me of Doves but so anemic.

A bit boring. 3/5

I liked this album. Kind of moody. I liked the mixture of lyrics and music.

I didn't pay very close attention while I was listening to this because things kept happening to distract me. But it did end up playing on a loop three times during that period and at no point was I ever dissatisfied with it. I definitely going to keep it on my phone and the next time I'm sitting down to read a book I'm going to put this on

This album was good, but not at all that remarkable. Feels like it would have just faded in to the din of similar albums/sounds from bands like this at this time, which is likely why I was unfamiliar with it. Definitely enjoyed listening to it though.

I didn't hate this.

Orchestral sort of rock. Singer sounds like Peter Gabriel. Wasn't too bad, so I listened through the bonus tracks too. Some boring, some OK. Favorite track: Grounds for Divorce. A low 3/5

altrock2000guys

Rock alternativo. Ni fu ni fa.

This is #day55 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... here we are with something from Manchester. If memory serves me right, I was introduced to Elbow by a friend, a grunge aficionado, which now feels a bit weird. Maybe it's because one of his nicknames was "Weirdo," inspired by that notorious Radiohead song, or perhaps it’s because Elbow's music carries a hint of that "radioheadness." Either way, I've come to appreciate this band's interesting sound. There's something idiosyncratic about them: Guy Garvey's melancholic lyricism and distinct delivery, the instrumentaiton that catches you off guard from one song to another, and, in this case, the album cover that evokes autumnal moods, rather on point as it's October outside my window. But, since it's far from 5 and not quite 4 either, I'm giving it a 3. Looking forward to #day56.

this objectively sounds really good, but I can't shake the feeling like I've heard a lot of these songs before in other albums - not saying it's derivative, because some of the comp titles I'm thinking of came after, but it's still a feeling that's bugging me, like there's nothing that unique about it. nonetheless, I think it's quite good

Depressing as fuck….so much agony and feelings….nice music but not my cup of tea

I would describe this as “soundtrack pop/rock” because it has a cinematic feel in both the lyrics and the sound. Mirrorball used to be a cool-down tune after an early morning run, so it’s near and dear, but I kind of lost interest with four songs left.

Interesting, but blurry. I like it, but I can't distinguish it from other music I like.

En light udgave af Radiohead, melankolsk indierock

Nothing too special

When the best tracks sound like Muse I have to ask why I'm not just listening to Muse. Favourite track: An Audience With The Pope.

When my wife and I got married in 2013 we were both overweight - in fact when we looked at the wedding photos on a DVD my wife said we looked like Les Dawson and Matt Lucas in a dress. All the while, over the top of these photos, the photographer had added One Day Like This by Elbow. 3 out of 5, would get married looking like Les Dawson again.

Honestly I'm pretty surprised that I've never heard this album before. It sounds kinda like 2000s indie mixed with Radiohead. I really enjoyed this record.

This was cool, but it was kind of hard for me to really get into to. It had some really cool songs, and I really like how it all flowed together nicely. I guess in a lot of ways it kind of felt like indie genre music. It kind of blended into the pantheon of bands from this time that kind of sound similar. I did really love the first song, "Starlings" and the second to last song, "One Day Like This." I thought there were cool elements of shoegaze, even some tango and jazz, and just a lot of ambient rock. Which was fun.

It's alright.

I actually quite liked the energy that this album had, but it didn't really leave an impression on me unfortunately.

Quite nice!

Chronologically, Elbow is the middle child between Coldplay and Radiohead… and the really sound like it.

These guys passed me by at the time.

British indie pop? An odd feeling to this but I kinda liked the somber sleepy feeling the album had.

I wish I could give this a half star. Elbow completely escaped me as a band. It seems unlikely I would choose to listen to them again but I enjoyed it.

Not very interresting, maybe works as background music.

This felt like a mix of Coldplay and Radiohead which I don’t care for either of but some how enjoyed this.

This was a pleasant surprise.

pretty decent

Some great songs that seem to pull from multiple other alternative bands, but also one too many boring songs that make this far from a complete album

Sounds like if Peter Gabriel was the frontman of Radiohead... But it's really not as good as you'd think it would sound.

"Good" is the word. A pleasant, but not outstanding listen.

Not bad melancholy Brit rock unknown to me until now. Good lyrics, good vocals

These guys sound like a mix of Big Wreck and Coldplay. Not bad. Interesting if nothing else. Nothing to write home about, but good. Favourite songs: Grounds for Divorce, Mirrorball Least favourite songs: Some Riot 3/5

You get 'The Seldom Seen Kid' if you mix Coldplay with loads of Radiohead, then you realize the influence wasn't enough so you pull out your oversized salt shaker with a large enough post-it saying MUSE, start adding it to the mix then the top falls of and now you ruined the taste.

I want to give this a 4, but it's just not quite there. There are a few really good songs and it does do things a little different from a generic rock album. A high 3.

There was nothing bad here, but also nothing outstanding. Enjoyed most of it, but it was a little long and nothing that stuck out from the crowd.

It's okay, but I am just not a huge fan of his voice, it sounds like he needs to clear his throat. The production is also a little too clean for my liking (almost sounds like commercial music at times). Grounds for Divorce sounds like the Home Depot song. Weather to Fly has these annoying vocals in the background. One Day Like This sounds like a nursery rhyme. low 3 (very very close to a 2)

They should be on the Shrinking soundtrack.

First experience of these guys they were supporting act for a Pogues gig. Been a closet fan ever since (on the day they were better than the Pogues)

An interesting sound.

Idk but mirrorball is cool

2.5

Was a little distracted by aldi when listening to this but I don't think it was awful. I agree with the Coldplay radiohead failson review

More interesting than I expected. Strange to think this is 2007.

This was a very tough album to gauge upon first listen - so I feel I'll need a few more to fully form an opinion. I'll still discuss my initial thoughts regardless. I'd say I was relatively lukewarm on the approach the production took here - it's a tad too clean and inconsistent for me. I do enjoy certain moments, particularly the bluesy switch-up on the song 'Ground for Divorce', and the triumphant strings driving the baroque-inspired 'One Day Like This'. The fact that I wasn't too huge on the production was unfortunate because lyrically and conceptually, I was fully engrossed in what this album was offering. Guy Garvey throws a few intimately melancholic love songs into the mix, but quite a few songs also tackle issues of addiction and loneliness in captivating ways like 'The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver'. Reading into it more, the album in its entirety is dedicated to the late band member Bryan Glancy who is the "Seldom Seen Kid". The devastating closer 'Friend of Ours' attributed to the late band member was an immensely powerful track, one that says a lot with very few words. "Love you, mate". Can't lie I got misty-eyed listening to it. I don't think I can rate this too high because, for me, it's plagued with many of the late 2000s indie tropes that turn me away from the genre. Looking past that though, I wouldn't hesitate to call this one of the most enjoyably presented indie records of the 2000s (conceptually and lyrically speaking) that I've heard yet. As I said though, it definitely warrants a re-visit and I'll see if it grows on me any more.

Never heard of these guys. A pleasant surprise. All the other reviews seem similar...somewhere between Cold Play and Radiohead. I agree. Very solid, occasionally catchy, not memorable but definitely listenable..

I've always thought of them as a sort of mid point between Coldplay and Radiohead which ought to be anathema to me but I have to admit I thought this was alright.

ok

This was better than expected. I did see some Coldplay comparisons in the reviews and while I’m not familiar with Elbow’s catalogue, I did hear more interesting songs through the first 3/4 of this album than I’ve heard from Coldplay.

someone get these guys a cup of coffee

Rather enjoyed revisiting this album. Some great tunes - saw them support U2 on one of their tours. Guy Garvey was so overwhelmed that he forgot the words to the opening song!

Feels very situated in its 2007 time and space. Reminds me of the excellent music in the Garden State soundtrack like the Shins, Coldplay, etc but also some black keys and white stripes feel. Very nice album

An alternative/indie album that doesn't suck?!

Brand new to me and an enjoyable listen. I thought it was Phil Collins on vocals at first and very reminiscent of DMB/Coldplay. Nothing groundbreaking but nothing awful either. 6/10 (3/5)

Decent album, didn’t realise I knew a few tracks off it.

Solid middle score. More listens might take it higher but also might go lower, hard to tell. Starts out slow but gets better.

It's okay. Unique sound. Gets less interesting as it progresses. Bones of You is probably the best track for me.

3.5 Cast of Thousands best Elbow, imo.

Listened to this on a rainy overcast drive through the Pennsylvania mountains and it was perfect. I kept getting hints of Peter Gabriel in his voice. Overall had a little bit of an older Coldplay vibe.

Album 400 of 1001 Elbow - The Seldom Seen Kid Rating : 2.5 / 5 An ok listen but just really low energy. Compared to Coldplay. Just meh.

The Seldom Seen Kid I’ve always struggled a bit with Elbow. I bought their first album when it came out as there was a lot of hype, but I couldn’t get on with it despite trying, ultimately finding them a bit dull. I did however like Grounds for Divorce when it came out and it still sounds great, a lovely bit of slightly off kilter pop/rock. One Day Like This has been absolutely BBC’d to death, and despite it being a well crafted and catchy bit of music, I’m just not ready to embrace it yet. Starling is nice, with some nice little touches and I liked Mirrorball a lot. I loved the horns on Weather to Fly, the brass band feel kind of reminds me of When an Old Cricketer Leaves the Crease any Roy Harper. The Fix is also great, the carnival organ and our old friend Richard Hawley lends a very pleasing gravity to it. A very nice song. A lot of the rest of it however passed me by a bit, kind of merging in to one slightly pedestrian one-tempo slog. There is undoubtedly a lot of sincerity, craft and skill to it, but much of that craft does feel too deliberate and too confected on occasion - too much perspiration rather than inspiration. though, , but I can’t quite shake a feeling of ambivalence. There are lovely moments sprinkled throughout, and Guy Garvey writes some very good lyrics, but overall it does get a bit plodding. I know it’s not necessarily what they are aiming at but I did wish there was a bit more energy or excitement to it I definitely didn’t dislike it, there is a lot to admire, and they know how to do what they do really well, but in the end it doesn’t quite resonate with me beyond the 4 or 5 songs above. As I’m unlikely to listen again it could be a 2, but that does feel a bit low for the craft on here so I’ll go 3. ⭐⭐⭐️

Not bad.

Never heard of Elbow but this was decent.

I enjoyed it more than I expected based on genre. interesting

For knowing nothing about this album and band i was pleasantly surprised

Nice listening.

Another album and artist I hadn't heard of. I was generally happy but not in love with it. Some was really nice. Some came off to me as pretentious art house pop. But then One Day Like This came on. Why they buried the best track as 2nd to last on the album seems very strange. That was far and away my favorite. I even relistened to see if I warmed to the album after hearing the good song. Nope. Just an album with one song that stands far above the rest.

Enjoyed this album. It was my first exposure to Elbow.

I like the first few songs, but lost interest

Was not at all familiar with this group, but I thought this album was pretty catchy. "Grounds for Divorce" was my favorite track on this one.

Weird and ambitious and diverse. Never heard of them before this, but I respect their boldness.

3.75

5.5/10

I don't mind a bit of Elbow, but not too often mind! This album is pretty good, even if all the songs are similarly paced. If I could be bothered to find out I would imagine the lyrics are very cerebral, as one would expect from Mr Garvey, which I'm sure his fans love all that sort of thing, but I don't care about that, it's the tunes that matter, and they are well orchestrated and executed. It does have 'that' song as well - cue big 'emotional reveal' music on TV programmes. A low 3.

I kind of like Grounds for Divorce, An Aidience with the Pope, the Fix, I almost like the Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver (there are some parts with ASMR type stuff when is played at high enough volume)

Coldplay-core. Pretty generic record that sounds like 2008.

Pretty good album. Lot of sad sack romantic lines. Honestly, probably doesn't need to be on this list.

que clase de britpop es este

Lo suficientemente pretencioso para mí, interesante álbum

A few tracks I know sandwiched by quite dull mopey music.

Kannte ich nicht und finde ich gut. 3 weil es mir dann doch etwas redundant erschien.

Honky-tonky and definitely a product of the 60s 3/5

It's an orchestral stew of Coldplay, Radiohead, Pink Floyd, Dave Mathews, and Peter Gabriel that hasn't had time to simmer to its own unique blend. So some bites you get more taste of one or the other of the ingredients.

Elbow was a surprise - never heard of this group before, but enjoyed this listen for the most part. Nothing really sticking out as I try to review 3 days later haha. I probably won't listen again but it was worth one time through at least so a good choice for this list.

Inte dåligt, men alltid tyckt dom är lite pretentiösa och får jobbiga Radiohead-vibbar.

It's not bad. I enjoyed it, but not something I'd listen to again

Only ok. Reaaaaly thought it was sting for a while

I remember liking Elbow, but I didn’t remember this album. Evidently, I didn’t remember this one because I didn’t really like it. It was fine.

When I was in middle school my sister and I saw our mom had a note on her phone titled "Grounds For Divorce" and panicked about it for a week until we found out she wanted to remember the name of the song to look it up later. Anyway, a few solid songs with good lyrics that I might come back to later (especially Audience with the Pope) but also many annoying and cheesy moments. It's so obvious that this came out in 2008. What an era.

3.5

This was a pleasant surprise. Enjoyed it more than I was expecting to, but they definitely have a Cold Play vibe going on. This is a mellow listen, which has been a nice chance of pace today. "Grounds for Divorce" is likely the best track on this album.

Singer sounds like Dave Matthews. Good album. Very chill. Great work album

Not too bad. Enjoyed the dynamics.

Never heard of Elbow before, but they seem to be pretty popular in the UK, as is the case with a majority of albums on this list. They remind be a bit of Coldplay and Radiohead, but a bit more cinematic and more in the Adult Alternative vein. The lead singer sounds a bit like Dave Matthews which is pretty cool. While I do appreciate that each song on here has a different sonic feel, I think there is a bit too much difference through some of the songs (Grounds For Divorce sounds straight out of a Black Keys album and doesn't really belong on here). Some of the standout tracks for me were The Bones of You, Mirrorball, and The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver.

Bellino 3

Pretty middle of the road, wore its influences on its sleeve

Unremarkably interesting music. Extremely whelming, I found some interest in this but not enough to excite me.

I think I may have been overly harsh on Elbow over the years. I'd considered them to be in the same category as Coldplay and Travis. The truth seems to be that they are in a category above them, but still not a category worth revisiting regularly.

This is the exact type of album I think I struggle with the most: lyrically dense chamber pop. Albums like this take way more time to digest than just 1 or 2 listens, so 1 day is not enough for proper judgement. That said, I understand the good in the album, and One Day Like This is a standout wonder. I'll have a more complete idea of my opinion on this record in a few months, right now I don't feel right putting too hearty a rating on it like with some other records I've seen so far.

Una grata sorpresa, sinceramente. Un sonido pegadizo, agradable y listo para disfrutar. Tengo ganas de volver a escucharlo.

Sounds like a mix of Sting and Coldplay. Different than what I'm used to but I was into it.

Cool album - Elbow always struck me as a bit of a dad-rock band from times-gone-by, but there's quite a lot more to this album than that. Previously I'd have put them into a similar bracket to bands like The Killers, Stereophonics and maybe to an extent Kasabian, not stylistically but in the sense that they write simple songs for a wide-range of mostly radio listenders, but TSSK has a lot more going on in the background. There's quite a lot of nuance to this album, a lot of sounds going on in the background that you may not pick up on if you're listening passively. I'll definitely give them a bit more time.

Asleep in the back is better.

I like it well enough, very melodramatic lyrics and delivery, and a floaty ambience. Leans almost circusy at times like it wants to be from an early 1900’s fairground.

Good. But wouldn’t listen to again

It is pretty bland. Nice enough you can have it on in the background but nothing that would make me want to listen to any of it again

It’s a capable and sometimes catchy record. It doesn’t sound like it fits in one time or a single genre but it makes sense that it’s a 2008 offering, the smart songwriting and post-Brit pop vibe give that away. “One Day Like This” and “Grounds for Divorce” are rightly pegged as the standout tracks of not just this record but of Elbow’s catalog. “Mirrorball” is another track that mixes straightforward sentiment with wry humor and observational songwriting. Guy Garvey’s vocals are the anchor throughout. It’s a memorable effort and worth repeated listens.

Nice. Low key, not quite my vibe, but pretty cool.

The Bones of You and An Audience with the Pope are the two best songs. Too long. It’s okay. Boring for the most part. Ez 3

Optional Album Review. Add it before you vote below.

Well made but doesn't really speak to me. Bonus points for the dickbutt silhouette on the cover.

Just an average album, couple interesting songs, unique style by the vocalist, but it didn't set anything on fire. It's just a normal, out of the mill record with straightforward, honest to god songs.

never heard them before. A slow sort of melancholy vibe.

Nice and mellow. Voice reminds me of Sting.

Had never heard of Elbow before so I had no idea what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. This was a solid album. Kind of like listening to Peter Gabriel (solo works). Grounds For Divorce - 2 thumbs up.

Never heard of the group. Love that this adventure is exposing me to new music like this. Starlings - the blaring horns killed an otherwise enjoyable song for me. Mirrorball - really like the drums on this. Great, simple beat with wide dynamic range. Subtle high-hat with accents and crisp snare cracks tied together with the heart beat of the bass drum. Overall, this album failed to elbow (please forgive me) its way into my regular playlists.

Grounds for divorce I have heard a lot of times, it was in a video game trailer or a movie. The album felt like it was gonna take off for me and be awesome. But it never really delivered. An audience with the Pope was the most boring song ever.

Sonically interesting. Would listen again

A very different sound. Interesting rhythms that will stick in your head.

If Sting and Coldplay had a baby band, it would be Elbow. They briefly get divorced in "Grounds for Divorce" but then get back together (for the child). Grounds for Divorce is by far my favorite song, probably because it doesn't sound like the rest of the album and it sounds like it could be on a Black Keys album or something.

never heard of this artist before but it was enjoyable. some songs felt like theyd be in a commercial but it was 2008 so it makes sense. nice variety of styles. fav tracks: the bones of you, mirrorball, one day like this

Listenable, but noting earth shattering

I can see why someone would like this, but the album didn’t catch me

Beautiful songs. A bit slow for my tastes.

Nicht mein Genre, und mir etwas zu melancholisch

Nettes Indie album mit ein paar starken liedern

Songs like "Mirrorball" and "The Bones of You" were good, but other songs were a little boring for me.

i feel like beginning is good but the sound almost is sort of copy pasted on every track not that am complaining

First time hearing this bad. Weather fly was good enough to give this album 3 stars.

Album was fine and nice to moisten too. Cool sounds. Probably wouldn’t listen bc again.

First half of the album was solid, probably wouldn't listen again but enjoyed the listen overall.

Strong start, strong finish, mushy middle.

Had never heard of this band going in but it’s very instrumental and chill and British, kind of early vampire weekend feeling only slightly harder and less dreamy

zzz

First song shell shocked me "We kissed like we invented it" is a cool line, I liked it a lot. There were some other lines that stood out for me, I guess I'm sad because I understand the lyrics One Day Like This is a drag

second half brought it down to a 3 very interesting and unique to me

Original link disappeared and was unable to find the one linked before with no bonus tracks. I was initially happy to get a band I've previously purchased albums from, but this really didn't seem to be an album I'd listen to at this point in my life. I also evidently didn't listen to it when it came out, having given up on this band and album or two before this one

After hearing The Bones of You I thought this is gonna be masterpiece but my sky-high expectations were tempered as the album went on.

I love his voice, he also has a really interesting way of stressing words which is very satisfying to listen to. All the songs are quite similar but generally enjoyable

Some good songs, some bad ones

Kind of nice

Hmm i think its ok

J’ai pas eu le temps ni l’envie de l’écouté au complet, c’est plutôt moyen

It’s solid but man this felt long.

Too moody

Hyvä!

didn‘t know this album. peter gabriel on vocals? ok

uuh nordenglische akzent meistens sympa. wer het das gmasteret die lislige teil ghörsch fast nöd und die lute sache haued der d ohre weg alteee. er sing bitz wie de sting. aber jo schön i guess. The bones of You sött nöd so dumm goh aber de bass und so isch geil. han etz es rechts stuck ohni notize glost, d chords sind i allne songs recht intressant etz gad loneliness of a tower crane driver isch huere geil. er singt seeehr geil. drums töned oft riesig aber in hall taucht findi en schöne sound. the fix. er isch in. gitarre melodie mit gsang huere geil. offbeat orgle ding au. zweiti stimm coole kontrast. some riot. ok goht um alkoholismus vomne kolleg. One Day Like This. Er leant voll i sin akzent ine "morning sun". da isch anschinend de hit. zersch langwilig gfunde aber de bass machts im refrain interessant ich lieb dass sie es album nochem leo benannt hend (ich gsehnen nie)

ok ersts lied hani nüt chönne ahfange aber isch vlt au meh es introlied als es liedlied? the bones of you schochli besser, sehr ruhige song obwohl au relativ vill passiert? es erinnered mich chli ah dokumusig? sie zeiged chli bilder vode wiite vode ozean und de grüene wiese und e herde elefante lauft verbii und me ghört d striicher und sini sanfti, aber auchli ruchi stimm chli singt sis "lift off, love" findi sehr cute grounds for the divorce wieder andersch? erinneret mich chli ah di arktischen affen weather to fly zwar iwie cute und verträumt aber schlussendlich für mich doch langwilig hey ich han langsam gnueg indiefilmdokumusig ich mag nümme HAHAHA "holy cow I love your eyes" findi super lyrics one day like this würkli sehrsehr herzigs lied alsoooo das album isch für mich lang uf 2sternkurs gsi aber ich glaub wemmer sich chli meh innelost und au ufd lyrics achtet chan sich das album rechr lohne, ich wirds sicher mal mache wenni ziit han

The Seldom Seen Kid is a good album, but it never seems to reach the heights you think are coming. Everything is good, nothing is great. Stuck somewhere in between Ok Computer and Coldplay but it’s neither. Even One Day Like This, which is very good grand song seems like it’s slightly missing something. 6.5/10

Apartment Cleaning Music

OK. Not great