Reviews (page 2 of 7)
Awesome album!!
po przesluchaniu boba dylana to jest jak pzynacy miod na moje uszy piekny akcent przypomina mi the cure i moonego na farmie xd definitywnie bede jeszcze kiedys sluchac bardzo przyjemne
Another surprise. This website makes me listen to music outside my bubble. I had vaguely heard of these guys but never listened to any of their music. That was my loss because this album is filled with poppy, hook laden songs. Kind of New Wave, but kind of not. If I was allowed to, I would give it four and a half but I will give it five because four does not do it credit
Loved this album!! I have never heard of the Go-Betweens but I really liked their music on this album.
Disco perfecto para un día de lluvía como hoy
La de veces que habré escuchado este disco, y las que le quedan. Maravilloso. Como pasó con Technique de New Order es un álbum creado a partir de la demolición de un matrimonio, pero de una belleza impresionante. Es cálido y luminoso, tranquilo, amable, brillante, exquisito. No suena a ochentas sino imperecedero. Retorno a Brisbane (en realidad a Sidney) pero con el reconocimiento de haber ¿triunfado? en Londres. A diferencia del Calenture de los Triffids aquí no hay rencor ni rendición. Si alguna vez estuvieron cerca de tener un hit, fue este. El arranque es inmaculado con Love goes on, una canción que es junto con Cattle and cane mi favorita de ellos. Quiet heart es otr delicia. McLennan estaba soberbio, su novia Amanda Brown aporta un violín estupendo. Robert Forster no se queda corto con Love is a sign. En realidad las canciones las compusieron al alimón por primera vez. Streets of your town y Was there anything i could do son las otras gemas de un ábum y un grupo imprescindible. Foster-McLennan al nivel de muy pocas parejas de compositores, no son Lennon-McCartney ni Morrissey-Marr o Tennant-Love, pero sí que tienen una virtud: ambos componen y cantan de maravilla y se compenetran sin fricciones. Si no es este, que sea su recopilatorio Bellavista Terrace, y sino cualquiera de su inesperado y genial retorno en este siglo: The Friends of Rachel Worth (2000), Bright Yellow Bright Orange (2003) y Oceans Apart (2005). 10/10.
Love this wuss rock to pieces. Chucking the record on. Haters have never had their heart broken. Similar (but more power pop) recommendation that won't be on here: Shoes - Black Vinyl Shoes.
I love this. It's giving The Tragically Hip and Bob Dylan and Simon & Garfunkel vibes
I've never heard of the Go-Betweens before. Solid 80's New Wave, it sounds new and familiar at the same time. I listened through several times, really enjoyable. I wish I was in a band that had a bridge named after it.
They are like if you combined The Pixies with Violent Femmes which really works. The unique tone and vocalization style of the singer really ties the instruments together to make every song a new yet familiar sound. I started listening to this without looking at the release year and honestly I would have pegged this as a late 90s early 2000s album so I guess they might have been a bit ahead of their time. I really enjoyed this from start to end. 9/10
People compare this band to U2 or The Smiths but I think the clear sounds of The Go-Betweens stand on their own feet. It's a summery, happy yet melancholic album that dives to many topics. You know these bands who work so well together that their music creates a rich composition in the best sense? That's one of them. Definitely a classic of Australian pop and rock. It's a shame that they already disbanded shortly after the release of this album.
Excellent pop record.
This is the 176th album I’m rating. Based off of that album cover I'm not expecting a lot. Based off the Wikipedia page I'm expecting a lot. Adding to my Playlist - Love Goes On, Quiet Heart, Love is a Sign, You Can't Say No Forever, The Devil's Eye, Streets of Your Town, Clouds, Was there Anything I Could Do?, I'm All Right, and Dive for Your Memory. Not Adding to my Playlist - All in all I liked 10/10 songs. Cool Australian band.
Autumn, reflective, very British pop... love it
Why do these lyrics resonate so much? "Watch the butcher shine his knives And this town is full of battered wives." I've been familiar with this album for a long time now and the more I hear it, the more I enjoy it. Lush, thoughtful pop music with really nice touches. Essential early indie listening in my opinion that needs more love.
Damn good 80's alternative, plus I really dig Streets of Your Town. 4.5 bumped up to 5.
It captures the 80s very well, great songs, great melodies, something you listen to and listen to and can't get enough of. I was undecided between 4 or 5 and then I started thinking about other albums I'd given 4 to and, naaahhh, this one's going to get a 5
Very reminiscent of Midnight Oil, which is certainly not a bad thing. Great album and would recommend to any rock fan.
This is 5 stars too
## In-Depth Review of *16 Lovers Lane* by The Go-Betweens *16 Lovers Lane*, released in 1988, stands as the sixth studio album by Australian indie rock band The Go-Betweens. It is widely regarded as their magnum opus, a bittersweet swan song for the original lineup before their split. The album is celebrated for its lyrical depth, melodic sophistication, and the emotional resonance that permeates its music and production. Below is a comprehensive review focusing on lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, followed by a balanced assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. --- ## Lyrics **Emotional Duality and Intimacy** The lyrics of *16 Lovers Lane* are a masterclass in emotional storytelling, shaped by the contrasting songwriting sensibilities of Robert Forster and Grant McLennan. The album’s emotional core is rooted in the real-life romantic entanglements within the band: Forster’s breakup with drummer Lindy Morrison and McLennan’s burgeoning relationship with violinist Amanda Brown. This duality—heartbreak and new love—infuses the album with a paradoxical tension, making the lyrics both deeply personal and universally relatable[1][2]. - **Forster’s Perspective:** Forster’s contributions are often more morose and introspective, reflecting the pain of lost love. In “Love Goes On!”, he laments sleepless nights and the inescapable ache of heartbreak: > “Late at night with the lights down low / The candle burns to the end / I know a thing about darkness / Darkness ain't my friend / Love goes on anyway!”[1] - **McLennan’s Perspective:** McLennan, in contrast, explores the anxieties and exhilarations of new love. “Love Is a Sign” and “The Devil’s Eye” capture the yearning and insecurity of early romance, eschewing saccharine declarations for nuanced emotional honesty[1]. - **Universal Resonance:** The lyrics are never overwrought; instead, they invite self-interpretation, allowing listeners to project their own experiences onto the songs. This subtlety is a hallmark of The Go-Betweens’ songwriting, elevating the album above typical love song fare[1][4]. --- ## Music **Jangle Pop Perfection and Melodic Craft** Musically, *16 Lovers Lane* is a high-water mark for jangle pop, blending acoustic warmth with melodic clarity. The addition of John Willsteed on bass and guitar, and Amanda Brown’s oboe and violin, expanded the band’s sonic palette, resulting in their most lush and accessible sound[2][3]. - **Instrumentation:** The album is characterized by shimmering acoustic guitars, melodic basslines, and tasteful string arrangements. Amanda Brown’s contributions on oboe and violin add a layer of sophistication and emotional color, particularly on tracks like “Clouds” and “Love Is a Sign”[3]. - **Songwriting Cohesion:** Unlike previous albums, where Forster and McLennan’s distinct styles sometimes clashed, *16 Lovers Lane* achieves a rare cohesiveness. The songs flow seamlessly, with each track complementing the next, creating a unified listening experience[4]. - **Standout Tracks:** - “Streets of Your Town” is perhaps the band’s most enduring single, marrying sunny melodies with dark lyrical undercurrents. - “Was There Anything I Could Do?” is punchy and urgent, showcasing McLennan’s knack for catchy, emotionally charged pop. - “Quiet Heart” and “Dive for Your Memory” are poignant ballads that close the album with a sense of wistful resignation[3]. --- ## Production **Ornate Yet Accessible** Produced by Mark Wallis, the album’s production is notably more polished and ornate than the band’s earlier work. Wallis worked from acoustic demos, broadening the arrangements while maintaining the intimacy of the songwriting[2][3]. - **Slicker Sound:** The production is clean and radio-friendly, with layered guitars, subtle synths, and lush string sections. This approach makes the album more accessible but, at times, risks smoothing over the band’s rawer edges[4]. - **Balance of Restraint and Embellishment:** While some critics have noted moments of over-embellishment, the overall effect is one of warmth and clarity, allowing the emotional nuances of the songs to shine through[2]. --- ## Themes **Love, Loss, and the Passage of Time** Thematically, *16 Lovers Lane* is a meditation on love in all its forms—romantic, lost, and unrequited. The album explores the spectrum of human relationships, from the pain of separation to the hopefulness of new beginnings[1][2]. - **Heartbreak and Healing:** Songs like “Love Goes On!” and “Quiet Heart” delve into the lingering pain of lost love, while “Love Is a Sign” and “The Devil’s Eye” capture the vulnerability and excitement of falling in love[1]. - **Nostalgia and Memory:** The album is suffused with a sense of nostalgia, as the band reflects on their own relationships and the passage of time. The closing track, “Dive for Your Memory,” is a poignant farewell, both to a lover and to a chapter in the band’s history[3][4]. --- ## Influence **Legacy and Enduring Impact** *16 Lovers Lane* is widely regarded as one of the greatest Australian albums of all time. It has been included in *1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die* and ranked highly in various “best of” lists, including *Rolling Stone Australia*’s “200 Greatest Australian Albums of All Time”[2]. - **Critical Acclaim:** The album was praised upon release for its melodic strength and emotional depth. Critics lauded its directness, accessibility, and heartfelt songwriting[2][3]. - **Influence on Indie Pop:** The album’s blend of jangly guitars, literate lyrics, and melodic sophistication has influenced countless indie and alternative bands, both in Australia and internationally. Its emotional honesty and musical craftsmanship set a benchmark for the genre[3]. --- ## Pros and Cons | Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Lyrically rich and emotionally resonant; explores love and loss with nuance and honesty[1][2] | Some may find the production too polished, losing the rawness of earlier albums[2][4] | | Cohesive songwriting; Forster and McLennan’s styles blend seamlessly for the first time[4] | Occasional moments of over-embellishment in the arrangements[2] | | Melodic and accessible; features some of the band’s strongest hooks and choruses[3] | The slicker sound may alienate fans of the band’s earlier, rougher work[4] | | Sophisticated instrumentation; Amanda Brown’s strings and oboe add depth[3] | The album’s focus on love and relationships may seem narrow to some listeners | | Enduring influence; recognized as a classic in Australian and indie pop music[2][3] | The emotional tone is consistently bittersweet, which may not appeal to all moods | --- ## Conclusion *16 Lovers Lane* is a landmark album that captures The Go-Betweens at the peak of their creative powers. Its lyrical depth, melodic beauty, and emotional honesty make it a timeless exploration of love’s complexities. The album’s polished production and cohesive songwriting set it apart from the band’s earlier work, while its influence continues to resonate in the world of indie pop. Despite minor criticisms regarding its slickness, *16 Lovers Lane* remains a masterful, bittersweet farewell from one of Australia’s most beloved bands—a record that rewards repeated listening and introspection.
Pop masterpiece, the good face of the 1980s. "Streets of your town" five stars only for this song.
Yet another great post-punk-ish record, what else is there to say?
Been listening to this on repeat for days. I really like it. Some Smiths, some Cure. Easy ancestry lines to bands like Beach Fossils. I'm kinda frustrated I have to put anything else on TBH. I don't want to leave this album haha.
There's more to the 80s than The Cure.
I'm trying to think what I would give this if they weren't a) australian, and b) from my home town. I guess it's a solid indie record that doesn't feel so dated so maybe a 3 or 4. But I gotta bump it up as a matter of pride. Faves: Streets of Your Town, Was There Anything I Could Do?
Wow I’m horny
Comfortable and upbeat at the same time. Favorite song of the album is Love Goes On! for its interesting chord progression.
Rock, alternative rock, indie rock
great Aussie indie music
From no opinion to no skips: I loved this album on my first listen and fall harder with each return.
Amazing pop record. The 80s sound might sound outdated to some people, but the 80s sound adds so much to me. Everything is so addicting here, the vocals especially. This was a very pleasent suprise! Very cool.
I never really got the go betweens. I know they are an iconic Queensland band but they were always just off my ‘taste’ radar. They’re really good. Great playing and strong songs and they deserved their success but I missed the appeal. 5 because I know too many people who’d give this at least 4.
Nice. I really enjoyed this album. 5/5
PNW, driving a motorcycle, diners, first love,
Ok
Good to be back listening to music, and this was a great re-entrance! It sounded like a lot of stuff I’ve heard already from this list, but upbeat. “I’m All Right” was the standout track for me, but I plan to keep this on my phone.
9/10 - fire
Fantastic album. Along the lines of REM, but in their own way. A strong rhythmic acoustic with electric licks over it, topped with perfect male and female vocals, produced well with each song providing something different.
This was a real positive surprise, great runtime, couple of standout songs that I saved and overall just a very happy, go lucky mood in the songs
Great 80s album
I actually didn't have the time to get to this again, but this is just such a great album to me. It seems to be the phase where they took the post-punk (in very loose terms) thing they had going and put more of a singer-songwriter spin on it. Grant McLennan seemed to write (what should have been) hit after hit with infectious melodies and Robert Forster wrote these slower (but not meandering) songs just so rich with atmosphere. Maybe not my fav of theirs but I love it a lot.
Hard to say but this might be my favourite Go-Betweens album (only know their first six albums). It has no Cattle and Cane, but lots of other really strong songs. I can also strongly recommend Robert Foster's book Grant and I (from 2018 or so).
One of the major 1001 surprises: I love everything about it.
I loved this album! It was like The Smith’s, but without Morrissey, who just ruins everything he touches!
Never heard of this band before but this hit right in the sweet spot of music I love. It hits my indie rock soul hard and I can't wait to listen to more albums from them.
This album has particular resonance for me - both from it being a part of my youth, but also because it captures something about being Australian.
Loved this, just my cup of tea
One of my most cherished albums. The bittersweet emotions you feel when you're going through a nasty breakup are perfectly balanced on this album, linking it to Dylan's Blood on the Tracks in some ways. The Go-Betweens were one of the greatest jangle pop bands to come out of Australia, and people like Courtney Barnett clearly owes to them. I'm glad this album was included in this book because it's a perfect case of a somewhat less known album that actually deserves attention.
loved it then love it now, so lucky to see F&M perform most of this live. Just excellent, so many good memories soundtracked by this
I love this band, I love this album
I relate to some of these songs I would deffo rate this 5/5 or 4.5/5 Indie rock is lit
Awesome and Nic loved it too
Hadn't listened before and I loved it!
4 1/2
Brutal.
One of my fav bands, but not my fav record of theirs
BEFORE: I know nothing about these guys except that they're Australian. Should be fun. I'm just going to listen to the original 10 tracks - not all this bonus stuff. AFTER: Interesting album. Reminds me a bit of Hunters and Collectors, Waterboys and The Cure's more upbeat stuff (this is a compliment). Emotional without being overwrought. HIGHLIGHTS: The strings - always adding something but never excessive. The Robert Smith-y lead guitar work. Favourite tracks were Love Goes On!, You Can't Say No Forever, The Streets of Your Town, Was There Anything I Could Do, LOWLIGHTS: The arrangements and production can feel a little too similar at times and I can't help but feel that a few different elements (like the outro to You Can't Say No Forever or the drums on Clouds) would have brought some of these tracks to life, but given the quality of the songwriting that is a very minor quibble. Also maybe that's just me - most of my favourite stuff is a bit more weird and cross-genre. I had kind of run out of interest by the last 2 tracks, and there are only 10. I could also have done without the oboe. Sometimes it works OK. Not here. VERDICT: 4 stars. Immaculate songwriting even if this style of jangly indie pop isn't generally for me. A huge breath of fresh air after Mott the Hoople, apart from the oboe.
Haven't heard this in a long time, nice to revisit
Pretty good! More pop than alt-rock but catchy, need to give it another spin.
Very enjoyable. I loved Your Quiet Heart until the harmonica took ot down a notch. Bleg. I like the comparison to The Smith's minus the douchery. 4/5
Formative indie sound.
3.5
I enjoyed listening to this album, it's very atmospheric and all the songs are good in their own way, and there are no filler songs.
I was surprisingly into this!
I thought it was a good 80s album. There was some good music to go along with some good singing
Kind of like Crowded House. Good acoustic guitar
This was really good. Lyrically and instrumentally. A really good love/breakup album.
75/100. The Go-Betweens create a sound that feels hazy and hypnotic, pulling you into its emotional world without ever becoming overly dramatic. This is a really strong jangle pop record. Lyrically, the record centers on people drifting apart and relationships slowly fading away. There is a quiet sadness running throughout, but it is handled with subtlety rather than heaviness, which makes the emotional tone feel natural and reflective. The combination of melancholy songwriting and shimmering instrumentation gives the album a charm that is easy to get lost in.
Very enjoyable 1980s indie that I had never heard of. I can hear The Smiths, REM and others in the melodies.
7/10
Great record
me fascinó, no conocía la banda
A suprisingly good album, there's not much here to take offence to and plenty to enjoy. I often think people get so focused on expecting every album on this list to be life-changing that they overlook the enjoyability of an easy to listen to album.
Loved this!!
The first two songs are really great but the album takes a little bit of a dip after that. Was initially considering giving 5 stars
This is lovely
Ab und zu findet sich doch eine Perle im Dreck. Locker, leicht, melodisch, optimistisch, gut!
Very 80s - 90s! Quite catchy.
Day830 - i was getting pale blue eyes by velvet underground vibes. it’s really a pleasant album to listen to
One of the better summery Aussie-rock albums. Apart from "Streets of Your Town", the rest of the album, while slightly bloated, is actually pretty good. Melodic, and relatively simple, it's strength perhaps lies in its accessibility.
As with a huge fraction of the albums on the list, I had no idea this existed. So I don't really know if this was successful or not, but for me, this is one of those pleasant surprises you come across in this 1001 album journey. The songs are good, and the overall sound is pleasing and enjoyable. I see that people on this page aren't rating this album that well. I disagree with the main critique I'm seeing that it's too generic. Probably nothing revolutionary or peculiar, but it was still a good collection of acoustic songs. 4/5
I liked it. Their sound seems easy to trace, as others have mentioned. So it has a nostalgic feel to it but the production is not as screamingly 80s as the bands they sound like, which gives them a more timeless quality.
#90 here we go! I was surprised at how much I enjoyed “Love goes on”. I heard the opening chords and thought it was going to be more of the same genres I’d been getting for the past week. I was pleasantly mistaken. Quiet heart was amazing as well. It built itself up so well, and when the harmonica kicked in it felt like it belonged. Love is a Sign was cool in the way it was mostly spoken word, but had that melody backing it up. You can’t say no forever had some really cool guitar behind it. I really liked the melody in the Devils Eye. Was There anything I could do was such a nice change of pace!! I’m alright was just the kind of track I love. I KNEW I heard an Oboe in this track. Finally representation for my stupid little niche instrument. Dive for your memory — more Oboe, hell yeah. It closed the album well and I appreciate the hell outta it because it brought me out of my 60s rock drought. 4.5/5 ⭐️ 90/1089
Poppy, smooth, and very of the times. It's not something I will likely revisit, but I could see this being a favourite if it came out when I was 14.
best lekker
I liked it.
Excellent album from the Aussie indie icons.
Liked this!
Very unique sound like britpop could hear 20 UK banks i know , who was first ?
Very good!
Actually really good
4 out of 5. This is a pleasant surprise and I'm considering adding this to my own collection somehow.
It's a beauty and stands the test of time for sure
Surprisingly good
Somehow, this never was on my radar, and I'm not sure how. A lovely little indie pop record that falls right into place among a bunch of other bands that I love. Nothing revolutionary here, just some good tunes that are nice to listen to. Glad I was turned on to this.
That was good. It's not every day that I get an album for this project from an Australian artist that isn't named Nick Cave, so it's always at least a little interesting when I do get one. The Go-Betweens are not a band that I'd ever really heard of prior to today, but I'm actually pretty impressed with this album of theirs. Admittedly, it's not the most original thing on the planet. The Smiths comparisons aren't there for nothing. I do think they're a little over-blown though. There's enough good things about 16 Lovers Lane to make it stand out at least a little on its own. The music is very good. It's not super complex or anything, but the songs are all composed well. The writing is pretty good. As the album's title suggests, much of the album's lyrics are focused on romantic relationships, though the album makes sure to have songs about the good parts and the bad parts. It's a decently refreshing take on the theme and I like what the album has to say. The songs are all winners. "Love Goes On!," "Streets of Your Town," and "Was There Anything I Could Do?" in particular are actually quite great. I like this album, okay? Grant McLennan and Robert Forster had a good thing going here. It's a shame the band pretty much ended after this album. Low 4/5.
Good album, sounds really great. Dig the Aussie artists.
I have only heard the Go-Between greatest hits and always enjoyed it quite a bit. This album has a lot of their hits on it, so this is as good of a place as any to start off. I can be a sucker for some jangle pop and the Go-Betweens deliver that. The songs are more downbeat than I had expected, only knowing their greatest hits, so I could see why some find it boring. I enjoyed this album a lot and think it has a place in the book. I would not call it fun necessarily, but it's a good listen. My favorite tracks: Love Goes On! Quiet Heart You Can't Say No Forever Streets of Your Town Was There Anything I Could Do Dive For Your Memory
This is pure pop. Like a little white ball of fluff that bounces by. I can’t pinpoint anything specifically exceptional about it, but I do find it charming. 3.5 feels like the right score, have to decide which way to round.
Took a couple of listens but a winner. Good good album.
this was nice!
I found this really enjoyable and it was fun to get something from not the UK lol
Gorgeous Antipodean jangle pop of the highest order. Also known as "my favourite genre" Streets of Your Town is obviously a classic, but Dive For Your Memory still leaves me breathless. Grant McLennan left this world far too soon.
Very ok
Real Aus nostalgia on this one
4.5 I genuinely really liked this album. Bright poppy guitar nice indie pop band
Surprised by this. I've heard a few of their songs and thought "meh."
Great album, very easy to listen to
7/10
Very nice stuff.
Easy going pop. I’m surprised this band wasn’t more popular tbh
Def one of my favs ! From the lyrics to the beat it def made the last lil bit of my shift easier 😆!
An enjoyable, artsy pop record. Crystal clear production, I like the vocal stylings too. Many of the songs were excellent, but another handful just kinda come and go. 3.5
Liked the overall sound of the album
This was somehow absolutely new to me. So good! Smart, catchy songs. I’m an unreconstructed fan of 80s music, so it’s amazing to find a brilliant new indie-rock/new-wave album to enjoy. “Streets of Your Town” and “Was There Anything I Could Do?” are fabulous, but the album is seriously deep. Highly recommended!
9/10 aussie vibes
This was pretty decent early indie rock. A few solid tracks and nothing offensive. I'd listen to this again and so I'll slip it up into the low 4/5.
Good pop
Is it an excellent album? Probably not. Is it catchy and perfect for daydreaming sessions ? Absolutely! Favorite tracks: Love Goes On and Was There Anything I Could Do
'Late at night when I want you / I lock you in my room'; 'And how I miss your quiet, quiet, quiet heart'; 'I'm not a playboy or a poet / There's no cool water from the well.' McLennan is an unexpected, subtle lyricist, unfolding a penchant for the improbable word and the standalone phrase. And yet, these tracks are admirably simple pop songs, w/ a whole lot of heart and a good deal of needed optimism. Contemporaries of the Australian Triffids, the Scottish Blue Nile, and, most notably, the British Smiths, this band, I've gotta say, is a notch above. At the very least, they're more interesting: I'll grant that Morrissey and Marr wrote more iconic songs. So cool tho: they at times feel like The Mekons, at others like The VU, some like Television.
I was not previously familiar with this album or group. I think I would have liked this album a lot more if I’d listened to it at the time it came out — it seems like it might have been up my alley. Now it seems a little to dated to really grab me, but I’ll give it the benefit of the doubt with my rating.
I love a good jangle.
A good album, I liked Quiet Heart, The Devil's Eye and Was There Anything I Could Do the most.
Looking forward to this. For some reason, I only know their late album Oceans Apart, but I think it's one of my favorite albums of the last 25 years. Full of hard earned wisdom and rueful humor, and a perfect balance of the two songwriters’ bittersweet and darkly ironic sensibilities… Well, now I listened it’s good. Quite good in places. But not quite up the high water mark of that last record. Except for “Streets of Your Town” which really sparkles.
The Go Betweens were the collective noun for Len Houmous’ 4-6th wives. 3.6 7/10 Clouds
The Go-Betweens are one of my all-time favourite bands. Formed in the 70’s by 2 friends who met in an arts program they made super literate pop records influenced by punk and art rock. This album is widely considered their best but is not my personal favourite. Recorded 10 years into their career they had abandoned their punk edge and focused on writing catchy and melancholic pop music. Not a perfect record but it contains some of their best songwriting and I have a ton of affection for it.
This one is one I've been meaning to take a listen to, It was alright. The first three songs had me having high expectations, so not every song managed to match in quality. But I reckon its a solid indie album, it sounds quite Smiths-y at times, especially on "The Devil's Eye." Highlight Song/s: Loves Goes On!
Was not familiar
I need to go back and revise my ratings - they're all bunched up. This is probably a 3 but I gave it a 4 because I gave Heaven 17 a 3 and I like this better. I did like this record - not sure I would listen again and not sure that it was wildly influential outside the Commonwealth. Whatever - it's Dimery's list not mine.
Very Eighties sounding. Nice melodies. Definitely R.E.M. and folk influences.
I really like this, although have never heard of the band! Just really good indie from the late 80s!
i like this one a lot! not a 5/5 but very good overall, just funky and fun
Really good stuff, quite enjoyed every track, especially Was there anything I could do?
This was really nice. Loved the vibe
I'm a sucker for some sweet jangle pop and this is pretty good. Not really familiar with them but recognized one of the tunes. I'll definitely go back
The cover and album named always put me off this one, but in fairness it's a good album, gritty-pop-indie-rock, Pavement-ing the way indie giants to follow (pun intended) and akin the other Aussie contemporaries like The Church, would seek a physical copy, solid 3.8 so bumped to ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I'm shocked that I'd never heard of this band or their songs before. Their music is totally in my wheelhouse-80's indie rock/pop with jangly guitars and darker lyrics. I knew as soon as I read a bit about them before listening that I would either really like or even love this album. And I did. Is there a bit of The Smiths there? Sure, to some degree. But they feel like their own band and not a knockoff to me. Standout songs were Quiet Heart, You Can't Say No Forever, Streets of Your Town, and I'm All Right. There wasn't a dud in the bunch IMO.
Pretty solid stuff.
Overall a nice, pretty chill indie rock record. Gets a little bit samey at times but never too much of a drag to listen to. The music is really nice and the vocals are pleasant.
Jaha det här var ju väldigt lättsmält. Melodiskt och jävligt trevligt. Gillade omedelbart. Rakt igenom bra. Når inte toppnivå men ändå, kul!
Kul överraskning som var lätt att tycka om från första tonen! Låter som en blandning av The Smiths och Prefab Sprout, vilket inte är ett dåligt betyg. Alla tre singlarna är riktigt jäkla bra och inte någon dålig låt i övrigt. Klar fyra efter en genomlyssning, potentiellt med bud på mer.
Despite being an adopted Aussie, I have never listened to the Go Betweens. I don't know if they were big overseas. Enjoyable album. Some good tracks, some which were less memorable. Worth another listen.
Right up my alley! Delightful Australian jangle pop and easy to see the throughline from this to the janglier end of Britpop. The vocal mix is beautiful too. All round, I think this is one of the better finds of the Project for me, although I can totally see why lots of people will find this too fey and a little bit easy to dismiss.
Ah, The Go-Betweens... Voilà un nom qui, pour 95% de la population, évoque au mieux une marque de biscuits diététiques ou une obscure comédie romantique des années 50. Pour les 5% restants, dont je fais fièrement partie depuis mon adolescence boutonneuse, c'est le symbole même de "l'injustice pop". Le groupe qui aurait dû être gigantesque, adulé, qui aurait dû remplir des stades, mais qui a dû se contenter d'un succès critique unanime et de l'adoration éternelle d'une poignée de fidèles. Et tu sais quoi ? C'est peut-être mieux comme ça. Les Go-Betweens, c'est notre secret, notre trésor caché. Alors, quand je vois "16 Lovers Lane" apparaître dans ce foutu bouquin des "1001 Albums", j'ai un double sentiment. D'abord, une sorte de fierté revancharde : "Ah, vous voyez, bande d'incultes ! On vous l'avait bien dit !". Et puis une pointe d'agacement : "Merde, ils vont dévoiler notre planque." Je me souviens de 1988. J'avais 18 ans, le paysage musical était... comment dire... contrasté. D'un côté, la fin de la new wave synthétique et froide, de l'autre la déferlante du hard rock permanenté et du stadium rock à la U2 qui commençait déjà à me filer des boutons. Et au milieu de tout ça, des types comme Robert Forster et Grant McLennan, deux Australiens à l'élégance désinvolte, qui débarquaient avec des guitares acoustiques, des mélodies claires comme de l'eau de roche et des textes d'une finesse littéraire à faire rougir un prof de lettres. À l'époque, pour le jeune con que j'étais, c'était une bouffée d'air pur, une sorte de Velvet Underground qui aurait passé des vacances ensoleillées sur la Côte d'Azur. "16 Lovers Lane" est leur album le plus... "pop". Le mot est lâché et c'est pas une insulte, loin de là. C'est leur disque le plus accessible, le plus poli, celui où les angles sont les moins saillants. La production est léchée, presque californienne par moments. Les violons, les choeurs féminins... On sent qu'ils ont voulu, pour une fois, jouer le jeu, tenter de décrocher ce putain de tube qui leur échappait depuis toujours. Et paradoxalement, ce tube, ils l'ont écrit avec ce somptueux "Streets of Your Town". Une mélodie imparable, un refrain qui s'insinue dans ton cerveau pour ne plus jamais en sortir, le genre de morceau qui sent l'été, la liberté et les promesses d'un flirt de vacances. Sauf que, comme toujours avec eux, il y a une face sombre. Le morceau, sous ses airs de carte postale, parle de violence domestique. Brillant, pervers, totalement Go-Betweens. Ce morceau aurait dû être numéro 1 dans 20 pays et il ne l'a été dans aucun. L'injustice, je te dis. Le reste de l'album est une collection de "petites pépites d'orfèvrerie". On sent le travail méticuleux, l'art de ciseler une chanson de trois minutes pour en faire un petit bijou. Forster et McLennan, les Lennon/McCartney de l'indie pop, sont au sommet de leur art. Deux plumes, deux sensibilités qui se complètent à merveille. D'un côté la poésie un peu anguleuse et cérébrale de Forster, de l'autre la mélancolie romantique et lumineuse de McLennan. Leurs voix s'entrelacent, leurs guitares dialoguent, et ça donne des merveilles comme "Love Is a Vapour" ou "Quiet Heart". C'est un disque sur l'amour, la rupture, les non-dits, le tout baigné dans une lumière douce-amère, une sorte de soleil d'automne. C'est l'album parfait pour une fin d'après-midi, quand tu te sens un peu mélancolique mais pas complètement désespéré. C'est adulte, sans être chiant, c'est sentimental, sans être mielleux, c'est l'équilibre parfait. Alors pourquoi 4 sur 5 et pas la note maximale ? Parce que le disque n'est pas parfait. Il y a un ou deux moments, comme "The Devil's Eye" ou "I'm All Right", où la magie opère un peu moins, où la production semble un peu trop datée, un peu trop FM pour être honnête. On sent presque le producteur derrière qui dit "Allez les gars, encore un petit effort, on va le tenir notre tube !". Ces quelques secondes de flottement empêchent l'album d'atteindre le statut de chef-d'œuvre absolu, mais c'est vraiment pour chercher la petite bête. Ça reste un disque d'une qualité et d'une constance rares. Ce qui est tragique, et beau à la fois, c'est que "16 Lovers Lane" sera leur chant du cygne. L'album qui aurait dû les faire exploser sera celui qui les séparera pour plus de dix ans. Ils ont mis tout ce qu'ils avaient dans la bataille, ont poli leurs chansons comme jamais, et le monde, encore une fois, est passé à côté. Trop subtil, trop intelligent, pas assez spectaculaire pour l'époque. Aujourd'hui, l'influence des Go-Betweens est partout, chez des dizaines de groupes indie qui ont pillé leur sens de la mélodie et leur écriture sans même parfois le savoir. Mais eux restent dans l'ombre, "toujours aussi inconnus" et ce n'est que justice que ce livre leur rende enfin hommage. Pour moi, "16 Lovers Lane" reste l'un des plus beaux disques des années 80. Un classique intime, une leçon d'écriture et d'élégance. Un disque à chérir, précisément parce que tout le monde ne le connaît pas.
Quite good. Like James or something like that
Acoustic guitar jangle done right, it's polished without being sterile. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions: - Love Goes On! - Quiet Heart - Streets of Your Town - Was There Anything I Could Do?
Good pop/rock. Very pleasant. 4 stars
Thought this was a really good album. I'd previously only heard "Streets of Your Town", which I wasn't that high on, but the rest of the album is incredibly consistent. 4 stars.
Like Prefab but a little less exciting to me. Streets of Your Town is fire though. 3.5/5
one of the cutest albums of all time
уютная, приятная гитарная музыка. добрая. под пару песен даже немного потанцевала, хорошо для спокойной рутины, прогулки
Rather enjoyable and easy to listen to. 4/5
I liked this album. It felt nostalgic even though I am pretty sure I never heard of this band before. Still, the sound felt familiar in a good way.
Good album. Reminds me of a simpler time somehow. Acoustic electric guitars are nice. Enjoy the folksyness of it
I liked this heard the odd album before but its got some nice melodies
Australian 80’s alt light rock. Solid listen. Hints of The Church.
This was good. Reminiscent of a lot of bands I like without being those bands.
I’d never heard of this band before, and what a jewel of an album! My first impression is a 4/5. I’ll add this to my rotation, and see if it grows in esteem from there.
Enjoyable and varied sound. 4.
Solid album. Saved a few songs. Easy listening
sounds like road trippin in Ohio
Surprisingly enjoyable.
Maybe doesn't reach the same peaks as Prefab for me, but certainly a super underrated act from that milieu.
Quite enjoyed this one.
Australian alt-indie pop from the 80s? What's not to love! Catchy pop singles + moving ballads. Loved the soaring guitar at the end of Was There Anything I Could Do.
nostalgic vibes
I really liked it. They have a similar vibe to some more like 'well-known to me' bands, but I can see them becoming part of my regular rotation of music.
The Smiths copycat band. Good album tho.
Very much akin to Frank and Walters and other late 80s/early 90s indie-pop bands I've enjoyed. I'm surprised this wasn't previously in my lexicon, I'm sure I played them in my college radio setlists, but I didn't remember them beyond a familiarity with the name. And for that forgetableness, they fall from the lofty 5 to a solid 4.
Timeless. Good songwriting.
I like it. Shoulda been a hit.
love goes on is a perfect song. album is fantastic
4-
Quiet Heart and Streets of Your Town
This is meant to be indie rock, but it feels closer to dream pop to me. Either way I really like it.
Really good Jangle pop record, Was There Anything I Could Do? was probably my favourite track on first listen, will definitely revisit. 4 Stars.
One of the best I'd never heard so far. Consistently glorious. Reminded me of James, the Cure, the Triffids and others. Was There Anything I Could Do? Was a real highlight.
this was new for me and it’s going straight to my library.
Álbum muito bom! CVJ Night Elf.
Coming in with more quick & easy albums during my latest round of album catch-up. A lot of this reminded me of the Smiths, with maybe a few trace elements of some other brit groups like U2? I would say the resulting sample pool of sound is a mostly enjoyable experience if a bit plain. It’s decidedly very basic and avoids being too flashy or overproduced which for this group definitely fits. In the same way you can enjoy a meal from your local pub despite knowing it isn’t the best cooking around, the fundamentals and familiar go a long way in making an admittedly simple album such a nice listen
Love goes on - great catchy opening track Quiet heart - I adored this song lyrically, awesome production and instrumentals. Love is a sign - gushing over instrumentals and lyrics will continue. Bass, strings, guitars, and of course, the harmonica, are getting a generational run here. Saved this track. Streets of your Town - ahh, here we go. I’ve heard this one more than a few times. I do enjoy it, but it’s not as ambitious instrumentally, albeit solid lyrically. I’ve also listened to pieces of this track on probably 12 different TV ad campaigns throughout my childhood. The second half of the album trails off a little, not as strong as the first 6 tracks. Diverse sounds and styles on this album, this was a treat to listen to.
QUEENSLANDER!!! Any genuine criticism of this album is outweighed by my love for BRISBANE, the greatest city on Earth bar none. I purposefully go out of my way to take the Go-Betweens bridge when driving through the city and as the toll tag in my car beeps my heart is filled with childlike wonder and joy. Unfortunately this was recorded in HELL (Sydney) following the band's return from SUPER HELL (London) but I am willing to forgive that because Streets of Your Town is on here. Upon a relisten, I was able to go into this with less bias and put my Queenslander patriotism aside for a moment. this is a phenomenal album, Aussie jangle-pop that would define the Australian music scene. The sound of the Go-Betweens is so familiar and comforting that I really don't know that I could give this an honest and objective score. This might be a 2 or a 3 to a listener from outside Antipodean Paradise but to me this is a solid 4. Nothing quite reaches the highs of Love Goes On or Streets of Your Town but it's a charming album. Highlights: Love Goes On, Streets of Your Town, Was There Anything I Could Do?, Dive for Your Memory
16 Lovers Lane is one of those albums that feels like it was made for a warm evening walk just before the sun goes down. It’s delicate but never flimsy, full of gentle acoustic textures, glistening guitar lines, and soft but bittersweet vocal harmonies. The production is clean and open, letting the emotion in each song really shine through without feeling forced. There’s a confidence here, like the band finally found the right balance between polish and poetry. For me, it’s the songs like “Streets of Your Town” and “Love Goes On!” that really capture the heart of this record — light on the surface, but with a bit of a sting underneath. There’s something quietly devastating about the way the lyrics mix the mundane and the tragic, all while sounding as pleasant as a breeze through an open window. Every track feels connected, like pages from the same diary, unfolding in a way that makes the whole album feel cohesive and lovingly crafted. It’s a record that wears its heart openly and rewards you for listening closely. Not every moment hits with the same weight, but the highs are so good they carry the rest along with them.
Really liked love goes on and streets of your town. Very poetic and thoughtful. Mellow. Glad I listened
Mooi, beetje u2 achtig met keane
Way better than I was expecting with that cheesy cover! Interesting songwriting and nice and concise.
Had a good time with this album. Felt like the Australian Smiths. Over these past 100 albums, I have found myself really enjoying this style of 80s music. Many songs on this album reminded me of some of the indie/alt sad boy music that I have on my playlists. Great car ride music. Healthy 4/5 from me
A pleasant surprise.
A new favorite for me
Some pretty songs here.
Goed, Brits, maar niks spectaculairs
Listened before?: No Pleasant!
Gets better on repeat listens. And gets better as one grows older and gains patience with overdetermined records and artists trying too control too much or sub-optimal vocals. Everything's solidly played and they're all thoughtfully lyrically. Let's call it adult music, maybe predictive of dad rock. Easily in one's top all-time top 5 of Australian bands. Hot tip: This record doesn't include far and away their best song, "Bye Bye Pride."
This is just magic, to me. I can't really justify giving it the maximum rating, but it's so damn catchy and enchanting!
Good folky alt album. Sounded a bit like U2 at the beginning, but then seemed to find their own sound. This is close to a 4 already and it was pleasantly accompanied by a walk in Columbus, IN so it definitely gets a 4 for just being a short, sweet album.
A straight up call-back to the glory days of college radio.
WOAH. THIS IS AMAZING!!! Very catch and kind of emo but like not assumingly so.
A very smart album filled with different emotions. I think they say it best themselves when saying it's "the perfect combination between London melancholy and Sydney sunshine." Very accessible and relatable. The background of shifting relationships amongst the band, emphasized by their move, provides so much context to this great work
Ya me parecen conocidos, o se parecen a...
I love the go betweens and this album is very good, I have always enjoyed the tracks love goes out, was there anything I could do, and you can’t say no forever, however this is not my favorite album of there’s but ultimately it is very good
A highly enjoyable new wave album. I actually knew two songs, and never knew who they were from. Glad I found this band. From Brisbane even!
This is what Prefab Sprout would sound like if they had talent.
Pretty good chilled out album, all the songs seemed somewhat similar and familiar but couldn't quite place them.
Completely off my radar, but this was really great! The songwriting held me from beginning to end and the story of the band is interesting too. I listened to it twice.
This is a solid jangle pop record. I’ve heard of this band but have never really given em a good listen’n to. That has now been corrected as I immediately am loving this album. Thanks 1001!
A time period piece that screams 80s but invites you back into its warm embrace.
Album 722 of 1001 The Go-Betweens - 16 Lovers Lane (1988) Rating : 4 / 5 I found one. Fun band from down under. Great album. Nice jangly guitars and layered melodies. This was a new one for me and I think I'll keep it around for a while. Polished production and some quality songwriting.
An interesting blend of 90s indie and 80s pop. Sometimes had a Smiths vibe, sometimes a dash of George Michael, I liked more tracks than I didn't, with the stand outs being "Quiet Heart," "The Devil's Eye," "Streets of Your Town," "Was There Anything I Could Do?," and "I'm Alright."
Good
Albumi #156, 23.02.2025 Aussibändi Go-Betweensin kuudes albumi julkaistiin vuonna 1988. Levy sisältää varsin kelvollista indie-rockia. Soundimaailma on kohdillaan ja biisit ovat varsin hyviä. Ihme, ettei ole osunut kuunteluun aikaisemmin. Harkitsen levyn hankkimista.
It's very good
I have a predisposition to love most things new wave, and it turns out this album was no exception. I really liked it! Quiet Heart reminded me of U2's With Or Without You, which came out earlier in the year they started recording this album. Even though I prefer the latter, I still think Quiet Heart is a really nice song on its own. Another standout for me is Was There Anything I Could Do? Overall, a nice album for enjoying the peek of spring weather these last few days.
My first listen to this album and I liked it very much.
I like this album, it's really just an okay album though. Real Estate pretty much based their whole thing on this. Good stuff
I very much enjoy the fact that the top review for this is "It's a bit like listening to the Smiths but without having to think about what a piece of shit Morrissey is!" which, yeah, I can see that! The music is maybe a touch more conventional alt rock / new wave than The Smiths, but the vibe is pretty similar. Fave track - "Love Goes On!" was a nice opener! I'd probably need more listens to pick out more, which I'm not averse to...
🦘👌
Sounds familiar but it was good. The woman on the cover looks like Carrie from Sex and the City.
Favorite Track: Streets of Your Town
Australian Smiths or Cure. Really good stuff!! Favourite song: Love is a sign, You cant say no forver and streets of your town. Least favourite: Im allright was not the best if I am being picky. Album artwork: Cool cover from a great band
I had never heard of the Go-Betweens, but I quite liked this album. It's got a real Echo and the Bunnymen feel.
Not heard before. I found it excellent.
Indie rock. Muy bonico.
This feels strangely nostalgic even though I don't think I've heard it before. I really enjoyed this. Violin and acoustic guitar is a great combo
82% Best: Love Goes On!; Love Is a Sign; You Can't Say No Forever; Streets of Your Town; Was There Anything I Could Do? Must-Hear? Almost
The Go-Betweens apparently fell through the cracks in the 80s. The album opens well. Then songs 3 and 3 disappoint, with “Quiet Heart” distractingly derivative of Joshua Tree era U2. But this album got my attention with “You Can’t Say No Forever” and kept going strong from there. 8 out of 10 great songs overall. It’s already improving for me on my second listen, so…. Definitely deserves attention, despite the early slump, especially if you like the more indie/alternative side of the 80s. Some would be interested to know the band reformed in 2000 and released the single “Going Blind” which features all three members of Sleater-Kinney. Great song, sadly not on Spotify… had to track it down on YouTube.
Really enjoyed this one. I'm Australian but knew very little about The Go-Betweens, although I did recognise 'Streets Of Your Town'. I thought it was a nice slice of jangly indie pop with well-crafted melodies, poetic lyrics, and what I'd consider a pretty good balance of joy/hope and melancholy. There's no '80s production excess, none of the gloomy sadsack moroseness that plagued so many of the overhyped UK bands of the era that are frankly over-represented in this list.
Heel prettige muziek is dit, het tapt een beetje uit vaatje van bands als Crowded house en dergelijke, licht dromerige gitaarmuziek met enig tempo. Geen grote uitschieters, maar een heerlijk relaxte luisterervaring, als we dat zo mogen noemen.
Whoever said "it's Morrissey but without the nonsense" was spot on!
Enjoyed
"Wallis' production maintained the acoustic feel" "Wallis replaced the drummer with a drum machine on five of the songs" the '80s were a weird time
Melodically beautiful and well-made, but I miss a sense of drama. It ends up feeling a bit flat. Still pretty good.
Feels like I'm listening to a version of U2. Was good.
Lemppari: Love Goes On! Vähiten lemppari: Was There Anything I Could Do?
Always a shame that good solid bands from 'other' countries don't get a fair shake in countries they don't hail from. Solid song writing and composure.
Although it mimics some contemporaries like The Smiths a bit too much, I really enjoyed each track here, and everything sounded like it could’ve been the single from the record. All quality with nothing pushed aside in favor of “the one good song you like.”
A nice surprise of pleasing music from a corner of the the past I had not visited. It sounds strangely familiar and relevant.
Great aussie band Streets of your town old fav
Very 80s jangle-pop sounding, clearly influenced by the British scene of the time. An outsiders view of things though, which adds intrigue, and a band I plan to explore more when I have time (i.e. I'm not getting a new album each day!)
A completely singular act, who along with The Triffids and the Birthday Party defined the post-punk Australian sound that made it to the UK. Two great songwriters, and on this album at least half of it is top-tier Go-Betweens which is high praise indeed. four point five.
What a delightful surprise to see this album pop up on the list! I discovered this band a year and some change ago through Spotify playlists - they’re not the most famous band ever- and really vibed with their first few albums! Sort of like a positive version of The Smiths!!
This was a really good album. It was fun, uplifting, smooth, lush, jangly, and melodic. I’m a sucker for music like this.
pretty nice, mostly soft alt rock love songs. it's quite heavy with the acoustic guitars and it has a SUPER romantic, almost impressionistic vibe to it all. lots of the songs make you want to hold hands with your partner. i feel like if the cure was a little less new wave/punk, it would be these guys.
kind of Smiths
This is my first time listening to the Go-Betweens, and I like it!
Sehr akustisch geprägtes Arrangement. Schöner Indie-Rock.
Surprisingly fresh and fun. From the picture I guessed Irish but are in fact Australian. Would listen again.
The Go-betweens 16 Lovers Lane PTS 40.69 REB 7.88 AST 9.19 TO 1.31 FG 11.81 FGA 21.00 FG% 0.56 FT 11.81 FTA 13.13 FT% 0.90 eFG% 0.69 TS% 0.76
#7 The Go-Betweens - 16 Lovers Lane Jangle Pop, Indie Pop Chamber Pop Finally, I can listen to the Smiths without having to worry about supporting Morrissey! Well, the vocalist for the Go-Betweens isn't as good as Morrissey, but he does hold his own here. Good album, but it begins to lose steam by the end. Favourite Track: Quiet Heart Least Favourite Track: I'm All Right
A very very good band and album.
Yeah, mate. Streets of your town was next nevel
Classy
Indie, easy listening, rock, male, mid, nice voice, good melodies, solid sunday morning breakfast music; don't know who copied from whome, but a lot of U2 and Morrissey inside; aged well, streets of your town still rotates at DLF.k
Mt first time hearing The Go Betweens and I think I may listen to this again. Nice 80's feel. I hear a wee bit of Crowded House through it.
just super pop. never a bad call to spin this one
This album is sneakily very good. The pop sensibilities are strong with this one, highlighted by the sugary Streets of Your Town. The blend of clever instrumentation and vocals drives a buoyant catchiness to the whole album that is light but not insincere. This is the kind of bargain bin gem that is worth searching out.
Meh
I like the sound, very nice, and these guys have made lots of albums! Wow! 4 stars
HL: “Streets of Your Town”, “Was There Anything I Could Do?”, “I’m All Right”, “Love is a Sign” 2nd Australian album in a row! Apple Music promises “literate pop songs”, which sounds a lot like sophistipop; lo and behold… While I’m not surprised at the 80’s music press enjoying this album, it rises above ‘just pleasant’ to ‘really pretty’ on quite a few occasions. The oboe kicking in definitely helped create a (maybe deceptively) feel-good, upbeat mood that fits the album title. January 1st, 2024
The sheer rarity of an Australian act hitting this list just makes me sad that the rest of the world has missed so much great Oz rock. A very good album with a couple of bangers. Vale Grant.
Pretty solid. I read some reviews here beforehand because I had no idea who the fook these guys were. The Smiths comparisons are kinda accurate, you can't beat Moz for vocals though (haters be damned) and there's definitely no Johnny Marr here either but all in all it's enjoyable. I'd give it a 3.5
I meant to put this as 4 instead of cyndi lauper. Oops. Great album
first listen this is nice
Cool
- quite catchy - some enjoyable moments - 3.5 but gonna round up
Very chill. Loved the harmonica and violin parts!
I really enjoyed how diverse the sound was considering the limited instrumentation. Can really see where Matchbox 20, The Cure, and others were able to derive a clean but darker sound. Kept me interested.
This album was a bop. I really enjoyed the grooves, sounded exactly like an 80s band. And I like that.
This was a very good album, something I think my dad would love
Yeah this is good stuff.
Good listen
4/5
Indie rock. Muy bonico.
Cooool
This was pleasant & reminded me of Echo & The Bunnymen at times. I will definitely listen again.
Grows on me with every listen
i was expecting the same boring thing as most stuff in here but this somehow had something that made it stand out idk what
Oh great vibe, good songs, I can see if they're one of the favourites for some people
Did have very high expectations but I really liked most of it
I liked it a lot. It was vibrant and there was a gentle, fun personality to it.
Catchy and lush and happy Kinda poppy but I didn’t dislike it this time 3.5/4
Generally terrific, even if it takes a few patient listens to get there, and if one has to overcome the slightest hint of annoyance, perhaps at a vague pedanticism (plus navel-gazing, plus confessionalism) in the vocals, and lack of flow (see "Was There Anything" and the quite overdetermined [and oversung] [if still heartfelt and pretty catchy] "Streets of Your Town"). But there's true and undeniable depth and earnest commitment, which just saves them being sunk by their pretty overt self-seriousness, and one will take such earnest commitments where one can find it. Plus, smoldering intensity and the whole thing being free-range and organic in orientation. Strings definitely additive on "Quiet Heart," which might be the best song. Listening, one feels proximate to REM and Wilco territory, but not quite all the way there.NB: "Bye Bye Pride" is GBs best song by a mile; consult another album for that.
Было очень приятно послушать в номере во время дождя. Cute and sweet. 7/10
Nice new wave album. Kind of like The Smiths. Not very unique, but I might listen to it again. Of course, however, this is one of those albums that isn’t really notable enough for a lengthy, detailed review.
A 1001 albums that has come up for review that has actually been a never heard of it before, and I like it, worthwhile review. I listened to the entire album without any negative thoughts, it was a Johnny Hates Jazz, come Deacon Blue, style and feel to their music. Very enjoyable, they can sing, play and compile pretty decent musical arrangements, supported with decent lyrics. I would happily listen to this album in full for a relaxing evening.
day 32. I got The Smiths yesterday so this genre/era is fresh. This was a notable step up for me and a pleasant surprise! The singles are really solid, and the album has a nice flow and balance to it and doesn't drag. There were a couple songs in the middle that were just there, but I could still see myself listening to the whole thing. Nothing incredibly earth-shattering, but no major turn offs. Another commenter mentioned that they could hear flashes from other decades, and I agree. I kept thinking of 2000's bands they remind me of - got some flashes of Jimmy Eat World & Death Cab for Cutie (especially on Quiet Heart), a little bit of a Franz Ferdinand vibe on others. faves - Streets of Your Town (instant playlist add), Quiet Heart, Love Goes On!, Was There Anything I Could Do? (dug the violin on this one) 4/5
I'd never heard this, but I liked it. Very summery sound.
This album is my speed. I would listen to this for Oleyada inspiration for sure. It's giving sophisticated rom-com, and that's high praise. Sometimes it's too 80s though. It's at its best when it commits to being a pop album.
dobar jangle pop
Cool Aussie vibe and good songs. Thank you for introducing me to this.
Some good 80's pop though a little too sweet and smooth at times but that is what you get in 80's. 3.5 album for sure.
The Go-Betweens are a band I like and I bet they were great live, but I think their songs would be better with less polish on the records. Keep the jangly guitar, though. Love Goes On is a good tune, and Nada Surf does a pretty good cover that I actually prefer because it’s more stripped down. Streets of Your Town is also a really good tune and also covered by DOPE LEMON, but I’ll take the original in this case.
Seemed like good 80s indie pop. Was a good listen for me.
I dunno whos idea wa to put all the great tracks on this lp closer to the finale - i barely handled not to turn that off in the middle, so boring that was. Giving 4 stars only for the greatness of the second half of the album.
A nice surprise, never heard of these guys before but it was great
Like an amazing blend of Aztec Camera, House of Love and Prefab Sprout. It really is that lovely. Not about the riffs, but pretty pop songs. Streets Of Your Town is an immediately wonderful favourite. Can't wait to hear another of their albums.
Reminds me of A House, one of my all time favorite bands. I really liked this! Like... a lot! Not ready to go full 5, but I could see myself bumping it up to 5 in a year.
Not fully my cup of tea, but a really solid album that fully encapsulates an entire genre of sound.
There’s much to be said here. Fantastic songwriting and catchy tunes are bracketed by unique instrumentation and fun vocals. Even if the subject matter doesn’t always match.
Good album, really enjoyed it. Definitely sounds like 'The Smiths' without Morrisey (which is not so bad really) Saved songs: Love Goes On!, you Can't Say No Forever, Streets of Your Town, Was There Anything I Could Do?
Excellent album. Love Goes On is the obvious standout but the whole thing is chill and consistent. I’m All Right is another fave. A high high 4.