Tigermilk

Tweeee

I generally like their sound. People call this twee but listen to the lyrics.

Another chill album that I enjoyed listening to.

Quite nice, starts out a bit slow, but ends on a high note, Mary Jo is a beautiful song.

This is really damn good. Seriously evocative and atmospherically unique, with some very inventive and imaginative lyricism and storytelling. Gorgeous tunes!

Indie, folky pop. I quite liked it honestly! Something nice to relax or take a stroll to. Would be nice to go out for a walk to listen to this again but it's too damn cold outside today. I think this is one I'll come back to though! Favourite: She's Losing It

Electronic Resistance seemed out of place at first but I was pleasantly surprised by the departure from jangly pop into jangly electronica.

Love Belle & Sebastian. I like how their sound is quite twee and nice but their topics can be pretty grim and the lyrics are cleeeever.

This album is often described as chamber pop, and it is probably one of the best examples of the style. A good, moody album for listening in headphones on a stormy day while polishing off several cups of coffee.

Really loved this album in late highschool/early university. 4 stars

Oh man, another one of the bands I got introduced to by my awesome, music loving, hipster co-workers in the early 2000s. This used to be on heavy rotation in the office. Love the lush sound - the strings, horns, unique and peaceful vocals. Great album

Thought i whole album of belle and sebastian would be too much for me, but it didn't grate at all.

8/10 will listen again. good mix of vibes but overall a peaceful and sometimes funny feeling.

7/10. Maybe only a 6, but idk these guys are starting to grow on me a bit

Another pretty alright Belle & Sebastian album. Fucks me up that it’s a band named Belle & Sebastian and not two people with those names. 7/10

Enjoyed this for a long time. Lo-fi jingly jangly songs about real things and real life- vocals are sincere and vulnerable but have impact, great stuff!

A beautiful album, wish it had a little bit more grab but there are some great songs here. Precursor to a lot of aughts indie.

Early alt indie. Cool!

I really like Belle & Sebastien...The Boy With th Arab Strap, If You're Feeling Sinister, Dear Catastrophe Waitress all 4 star albums in my book. But somehow I never heard this album, I certainly knew of it but never heard it before today. It is on a par with the other three albums. Very upbeat, as is typical superbly arranged and beautiful whispy vocals that draw you into the complex yet accessible melodies. A beautiful album 4.5 stars

All the songs are good in the same way, but they all sound the same in different ways

C'est comme avec les tâches ménagères, je me suis laissé depasser

on tourne un peu en rond mais mimi

Just enjoyable. Songs had a similar sound but changed it up enough for each song to be discernable, and the big change ups like the electronic focus in Electronic Renaissance was always nice. Nothing hugely amazing here, but would happily listen to the entire album again, and I'm looking forward to their other album on the 1001 list.

Lush yet simple and very heartfelt production quality.

Ofboðslega falleg plata. Takk fyrir mig !

I have always thought of Belle & Sebastian of a band not of its time. Then late 60s influence is apparent in both the lush music and introspective lyrics. It is very impressive, especially for a debut. At the time it stood out for its overt melodicism, especially compared to Britpop. Very good, but not great melodies costs it a star.

This was a good album. I really enjoy the energy of this album and would re-listen to pretty much all of it. "Electronic Renaissance" being one of the lowlights of the album. The first two tracks were probably the best of the album with my personal favorite being "The State I Am In". "I Could Be Dreaming" was a song that I enjoyed, but didn't necessarily feel as though it fit the album in the way I wanted it to. "My Wandering Days Are Over" was another song I liked quite a bit. Overall a really good album that I would enjoy listening to again.

Quite enjoyed this, might be the album, might be because I’m at the beach on holiday…

Witty, worry and pop-literate. Lots of fun, with a delivery from the 'ex-choirboy who's seen some shit' school.

A really lovely debut with some truly beautiful songs. Electronic Renaissance was an... interesting diversion that I don't think quite worked, but everything else was great

A nice mix of classic and alternative. Good texts too.

Initially, I wasn't feeling it...but it got better. From track 5 on, there were some eclectic instrument choices — trumpet solo, tambourines, strings, electric guitar — that kept it interesting. It was a strange journey and really felt like a throwback pop sound, even some surf rock, but then closes with like a HELLA 90s vibe. Love that.

Mostly good to great stuff. Big fan.

Great folk album. Style for days. I'll have to check out more from belle and Sebastian

Of the records I’ve listened to so far, I know next to nothing about this group. I’m reminded of the Smiths and just about every indie group ever. I love “The State I’m In.” “Expectations” is also great and I’m struck by the immersive imagery and unique turns of phrase. The first four songs are great tunes, though I felt that the “Electronic Renaissance,” though fun, is a weaker track. The second half of the album is still strong with compelling lyrics and catchy hooks. Not a super revolutionary record but the songs are pretty great with clever and at times melancholy lyrics — I can see if this album is legendary in the indie/twee sphere!

Never heard of this group, was very enjoyable, pleasant surprise. Chilled out airy stuff.

Already a big Belle & Sebastian fan (seeing them in a few months) but only know a couple from Tigermilk. 'The State I Am In' has immediately become on of my favourites from them. Overall a great album - if you like Belle & Sebastian then you'll like this. Real easy-listening and lovely melodies.

Intro de The State I am in é interessante. We rule the Scholl é boa

4.5

I've been wanting to get into this group for a while and what a perfect way to start with the debut. It's amazing this was all recorded live in three days, 'cause it sounds so realized and so full of potential. These are some amazing tunes with equally thought-out lyricism and message.

You know what. It's actually pretty bloody good.

Not bad

Wow - a second Belle And Sebastian album? OK let's do this... I suspect my feelings on this are the same as they were with my first B&S review: I would have hated this 30 years ago and now I hear it as gorgeous and shy and delicate and introspective - highly melodic, clear instrumentation... Just lovely and another keeper. 8/10 4 stars.

Sweet and kind-hearted feeling

I had no idea what to expect, but ended up really enjoying this one. It's a really nice, soothing pop album to have playing in the background. I can't quite give it 5 stars though.

much better than I expected...could be a 5 with more listens.

Ik ken iemand die Sebastiaan heet. Ik weet niet of hij ook zo'n beest met borstvoeding is. De muziek klinkt eigenlijk veel serieuzer dan ik zou verwachten. De melodietjes zijn vrolijk, soms doet het wat Mexicaans aan met de trompetjes en de Spaanse gitaartjes. Mijn favorieten zijn "She's Losing It" en "My Wandering Days Are Over". ****

A beautiful, melancholic album full of clever observations and melodies.

A lovely folky, twee debut. You can tell that this was very influential on so many 2000s indie bands. 4.5

Indie pop agradable. Venga, un 4 por ti.

For whatever reason, I went into this album assuming I wouldn't like it. I was wrong and ended up really liking the chilled, almost indie, sound.

p778. 1996. 4 stars. So this is what the bastard love children of Donovan and Albert Lee sound like. Bittersweet songs, sharp lyrics and a sense of melancholy. All that is missing are some standout tunes. On the replay list.

B&S er søte greier. Jeg hadde ikke hørt på dette albumet før. Kult cover. Søte sanger. man kan kanskje argumentere for at alt de lager er likt. Men siden dette er det første albumet, så da er det kanskje litt tidlig å spille ut det kortet. Vokalisten oser ikke tradisjonell maskulinitet - men jeg liker stilen. We rule the school var et høydepunkt. Minimalistisk start, og svulstig avslutning. Fin oppbygning. Nokså sårt. Jeg opplever at det nikkes høflig til Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D-major (jeg googlet meg frem her til komponisten). Jeg elsker slike sanger. Mary Jo var også fin. enkel og søt pop. Hadde dette bandet bestått av kosebamser og enhjørninger ville jeg ikke blitt overrasket. det er lyden av rosa og sukkerspinn.

I quite liked this. Good back story to the band too.

Absolute Banger. Rarely any downtime. Only a a few skippable tracks

listened to again warm and fuzzy indie jams

Is nice, I like

twee and enjoyable.

Nice easy melodies. Interesting lyrics.

gentle bedroom acoustic indie for poetry writers and people who made mixtapes

Always #available for some B&S

I know this is from the 90s, but this sound is so 2006-2008 for me it's wild. I've always loved Belle and also Sebastian equally. Their initials spell BS, but you know what this album isn't???

Back in the late nineties Belle and Sebastian made quite some impact with their first three albums. The album opens with "State I Am In" - perhaps their most definitive song: either like you this song and the type of lyrics and you will like the band ..or you don't and in the latter case there is not much need to check out the rest of their oeuvre. Some other highlights: I Could Be Dreaming and Electronic Renaissance. The album overall has a demo feel and still has its charms. It is not their strongest effort though (and I was a bit surprised to see it on the list). Some of the songs are a bit too twee for my taste. So I would not be inclined to give this album the full five stars but still rate it as a very solid 4.

Pleasant sounding, very melodic indie album. The gentle vocals remind me of John Cale's singing, but at times they sound a bit too weak for my taste.

The group come out peeking from behind their dole cheques for their debut. The template for what they were is here. Stuart Murdoch comes across as the Morrissey who would be ok to hang out with. Possibly too twee for some, you can't fault the lyrics and melodies. Put on your horn rimmed specs and sit back a listen to the misery and neuroticism hiding underneath those pretty melodies. Ignore that electronic track though - it's shit. Best Tracks: The State I Am In; Expectations; I Don't Love Anyone

I am familiar with BELLE AND SEBASTIAN and two side projects, having their various first albums and EP’s, but overall I remember liking the B&S off shoot, THE GENTLE WAVES, which is ISOBEL CAMPBELL's solo work and her first album, THE GREEN FIELDS OF FOREVERLAND. As to B&S, itself, TIGERMILK, struck as most memorable but did have much replayability to it. After re-listening to TIGERMILK, my first reaction was very favorable not listening to it for about 15 years, but repeated listening led to a slight downturn overall, some tracks seemed annoying at times. The vocals are sometimes too fast and it is hard to decipher what is being said. In 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, besides the debut TIGERMILK is included, also the second release, IF YOU'RE FEELING SINISTER (1996) Rate Artist: BELLE AND SEBASTIAN (4.0) Rate Album (Year): TIGERMILK (1996 Original) (4.5) Ranking of BELLE AND SEBASTIAN - TIGERMILK songs No. Title Length 01. "The State I Am In" 4:57 08.5/10 02. "Expectations" 3:34 07.0/10 03. "She's Losing It" 2:22 10.0/10 04. "You're Just a Baby" 3:40 09.0/10 05. "Electronic Renaissance" 4:50 08.5/10 06. "I Could Be Dreaming" 5:56 10.0/10 07. "We Rule the School" 3:27 09.5/10 08. "My Wandering Days Are Over" 5:25 09.0/10 09. "I Don't Love Anyone" 3:56 09.5/10 10. "Mary Jo" 3:30 08.0/10 Original 1982 Release 89.0/100 = 8.9 / 2 = 4.45

didnt think id like it but i did!!

It can be a bit too twee at times and it's not something I can just listen to anytime, it's a very specific mood. However it is pretty damn enjoyable when I want to listen to it.

Bit twee but lots of good pop songs on it.

tempted to knock off another star just for 'You're Just a Baby'

I suspect they don’t fight much

It's 2020. Quarantine started. Almost everyone locked themselves at home, away from the terrible mess of the outside world. It was a weird time. Stretching for months and months. A lot learned to plant, to cook, and other stuffs that are popular in the DIY world. This event accelerated a trend. No, I'm not talking about TikTok, I'm talking about people's inclination towards sentimental, minimalist stuff. Plants. "AESTHETIC" designs. Crafts. Journals. And of course, lo-fi and indie music. My teenage sister would blast moody acoustic songs, thanks to this trend. These songs are oftentimes mediocre and frankly, boring. But I do enjoy some of them, but only if they are close to rock. Biases, I know. And this album, "Tigermilk" by Belle and Sebastian, is a perfect soft quarantine-vibed indie rock. I'm not a fan of this kind of music, but this is actually well done. I love the oftentimes lo-fi instrumentals. The vocals are pretty mediocre, but I think it's appropriate. Overall, a nice indie album. I just wish I discovered it during quarantine, maybe I'll enjoy it more. I wonder if my younger sister would enjoy this piece from 1996. Maybe she would, despite it's age and the fact that TikTok probably (fortunately) haven't touched it yet.

Different than I expected, quality.

Pretty good. Didn't know they started in 1996.

Sufjan Stevens esque instumentals with Smiths esque lyrics

Indie with good pop sensibilities. Well crafted lyrics.

Un bon album rock inde. Probablement d’angleterre.un bel album fin 90 qui sonne tres bien. Su talent cest certain.

Just had "If You're Feeling Sinister" the day before, so it's interesting to compare so closely together. I like this album too, it's got that same whimsical yet sardonic lyricism I appreciate from this group, and it seems to be a peppier album overall. Instrumentation is wonderful, enjoying it a lot.

Wasn't expecting to enjoy this that much, not as slow as I expected

Way above average 90s pop rock. I liked it even thought not in my listeningvwheelhouse. 3.6

Nice instrumentation

One of their best

poeticism without pomposity. expectations is the perfect combination of whimsical and depressing. some of it sounds more dated than vintage, but for the most part it works out for the retro folk thing they’ve got goin

Generellt sätt var albumet vackert och behagligt att lyssna på. Det som rörde mig mest var albumets drag av elektronisk musik. Låten som därmed gav störst intryck hos mig var Electronic Renaissance. Albumet lyckades förvåna mig med unika och intressanta instrumentala val som stack ut från den banala komfortzonen. Detta lyfter albumet högt i mina ögon. De vågar och lyckas med något annorlunda. Samtidigt förblir musiken vid andra tillfällen det tråkiga och ordinära som hörts tidigare. Däremot har albumet ofta en bra grund och potential för att bli något mycket bättre än vad det är vid detta tillstånd. Med en starkare uppbyggnader och mer komplexitet hade kvalitén ökat drastiskt. Detta märktes mest enligt mig under låten I Could Be Dreaming.

I think it's a shame that this album will always live in the shadow of the masterpiece that is If You're Feeling Sinister, because it's a great album on its own merits. It has a weak back half (at least until it gets to the wonderful "My Wandering Days are Over," then the final stretch is quite good), but overall it's an album all indie heads should listen to at least a couple of times.

har bara lyssnat på den här plattan en gång för kanske 15 år sen och då tyckte jag den var kass. nu tyckte jag mycket mer om den!

I like this, it needs more time to grow on me.

VERY good! I liked it a lot. It started off a little bland, but got better. Kind of wish it hit a little bit harder, though. Not sure if that's an issue with the production, or maybe the singers just needed to be a little better? I don't know, but I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would.

Ok album, nice relaxing, 3.5/5

Not quite as standout as Arab Strap but really enjoyed it. Some great moments on there.

I think I had maybe never listened to this - or possibly any B&S - all the way through before. You know, it's pretty good.

We listen to this in the car a lot (along with the rest of the B&S back catalogue). Having gotten used to how it sounds over terrible speakers with the drone of traffic in the background, it's surprising how rich it sounds over headphones via iTunes. I think I gave to my wife on vinyl for a Christmas present a few years ago. We've seen the band a bunch of times, including at ATP Minehead (Bowlie 2), talked about going to the Boatie w/e cruise in the Med, and have talked about going to the next one (if borders are open, the stars align etc). Good album.

A precocious debut from a band that went from strength to strength.

Enjoyable, if a little one paced. First band in this that I have seen live, albeit 5-6 years after this album. First Scottish band too, and quite a change of pace from Metallica! You're just a baby and I could be dreaming were my favourites after one listen

Surprising to see this album on the list, not because B&S don’t deserve to be but because later albums such as If You’re Feeling Sinister, The Boy With the Arab Strap and Dear, Catastrophe Waitress refine the model of easy going, dreamy, chamber pop with catchy choruses even further. This album points to the direction of travel, especially with the witty opener The State That I Am In (although I prefer the stripped back EP version without the added organ). A great band, great live (they love their fans). (If I have your attention, do check out The Avalanches remix of I’m A Cuckoo which is an interesting odd little gem)

Incredible song writing

Classic chamber pop album. Love the vocals and pretty instrumentals.

My favorite twee Brit-pop band. This one is better than the last one on the list and a step closer to the perfect 5 B&S album, but not quite there. A couple fives and a lot of other solid songs. Electronic Renaissance is off the beaten path and ahead of its time. Good listen.

interesting songs, lacks a real hitsong, great melodies and the topics are non standard

Everything I know about Belle and Sebastian is from the book and movie High Fidelity. I can say, that if this is sad, bastard music, I'm a sad bastard, and I don't know what you'd call "In the Wee Small Hours," which is way more sad, bastard than this. The State I'm In - interesting rhythm. This song builds nicely, and it's lyrically interesting. I am not quite sure of the message, but it is certainly from the perspective of someone with regrets. Expectations - Another jaunty song with cryptic and and verbose lyrics. This song mentions Velvet Underground, and I did get vibes of them with the style of this music. There's a coming of age bit in here that echoes the confusion of adolescence. She's Losing it - Another ironic song in that it is a happy tone with some real tragedy in the core. Feels like a continuation or appendix to Expectations. We are also getting names now: Chelsea, Lisa You're Just a Baby - More about school and an upbeat song that feels dangerously exploitative of a younger girl. And the album artwork gives that same sense. "Kiss me on the cheek before you know what's sweet?" But then he says you will be crying in the morning and you will be married in the morning, so maybe it's more about someone who's marrying the wrong guy. Electronic Renaissance - Clearly the first think I think of is Kraftwerk with this one. The electronic sound is a stark contrast to the first three songs. An attention to dates (at least years) is a theme. Also a rave/drug vibe here. I Could Be Dreaming - after the previous song about "dropping a pill and going," this feels like a continuation. Like someone's weird drug fantasy. We get a return to the idea that there's some abusive guy causing harm to a school girl. We Rule the School - Another song with a school theme. NC is another person we get named by initials, who is not Chelsea or Lisa I guess. Then the line, You Know the World was Made for Men repeated at the end. And then, "And not us." My Wandering Days Are Over - We get Michael named, and a sense of growing up. Leaving the disco boots behind, but also innocence. They also (Belle and Sebastian) name themselves in this song. Is this the song about how Belle and Sebastian got together? I don't Love Anyone - Stream of consciousness. I don't love anyone, well maybe my sister, maybe my brother? Reminds me of that scene from the Jerk when he says he doesn't need anything...nothing...well I need this. Mary Jo - Last song, another girl's name. Very High Fidelity I guess. Lots of women just listed. She's reading the book mentioned in the first song. This was a fun album. I feel like there's more to be read between the lines, but overall, this was a solid album of theme, instrumentals, lyrics, and ambition.

Gives me The Proclaimers vibes, really liked this album, would buy on CD if I saw it!

Favourite track is just a baby, proceeding song was aptly named Electronic renaissance, bringing a stylistic shift. That renaissance didn't last however, as I could be dreaming is gritty, grungy rock which is more in sync with the early 90's. My wandering days are over is a wonderfully dreamy jam. Never heard this before, really liked it.

Nice, sounds like the grandfather of a lot of similar music to come in the 00s onwards. I may have a bias towards this type of indie-pop, so although it sounds quite familiar, a very pleasant listen.

First pop album I really enjoyed, 8/10

Melodías dulces y tiernas que te alegran. A mi me levanta mucho el ánimo. No me parece igual un disco que me vuele la cabeza. Para mi es un "Ok esta re lindo" 4 efes

I like the style of singing, I will definitely come back to listen to it better

Made by a strange group from Glasgow. Fat-lipped vocal quality, a little wispy too. Lyrics are almost unfiltered in their simple, undressed honesty. The band’s center had just overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and that means everything. Each song is full and slight. Electric Renaissance strikes me.

Jangly guitars, atmospheric chords, some double-tracked vocals reminiscent of later Beatles, and the occasional trumpet accent. Interesting and varied.

Bright, breezy pop folk that was recorded at the other end of a long room to the band. I liked this one, even the distant production worked. Turn it down, put it it the background. It's nice.

Very driving beats, smooth trumpet lines, almost giving me Of Monsters and Men vibes, high energy, yet serene, favs - Expectations, I Don't Love Anyone

Best Songs: Electronic Renaissance, My Wandering Days Are Over Worst Song: Mary Jo

Gentle voices with good stories, no hate. Very good listening to this

I like Belle and Sebastian. I liked this album. Yes, I would listen to this again. 4 stars. Potential favorite tracks (but this was only a first listen): "My Wandering Days Are Over", "I Don't Love Anyone", "She's Losing It".

Awesome lyrics. Really good, took me by surprise.

I enjoyed Belle and Sebastian Tigermilk and more. Even added it to my You Tube music.

This absolutely slaps. More of this pls list

Chamber Pop at its finest. Belle & Sebastian show why they have been putting out music for years with some of their highest quality in a sweet and pleasant release.

Schönes verträumtes Album. Erinnert mich an Sommertage Ende der 90er. Nach der Schule direkt zum Schwimmen, lange Ferien und ein ganz anderes Zeitgefühl.

Mary Jo

false

On first listening I was disappointed. I was prepared to really love it. It was good, but not exceptional. I've listened to it 3 times now, and it's grown on me.

I've always had a huge soft spot for "twee-pop", despite absolutely hating the term twee-pop - I'm sure NME are to blame, they usually are. The world would be a little less fun without the jangly indie of twee bands from Talulah Gosh to the mighty Los Campesinos!, and Belle & Sebastian are up there with the very best of them. This isn't their best album but it's a strong debut, especially considering it was thrown together in a week and none of them had played together before recording. Oh, and the album cover is a woman breastfeeding some sort of toy tiger fish, so there's that.

Pues batstante chido, no esperaba pasármela bien con algo que en mi prejuicio suena a "rock indie". Supongo que por el eclecticismo del album me pareció chido, un poco de todo, ruido, synth, cuerdas clásicas, post punk vibes, ondita alternativa. Favs: She's losing it, Electronic Renaissance que está chida la idea, y My Wandering 0Days are Over. Mood: cuando dujeron I Don´t Love Anyone... I really felt that.

Sweet and almost soothing tracks. Nothing really struck me, but strong across the board.

Pretty cool. Need to listen again when in a sentimental type mood

Not the biggest fan of indie, but I found myself enjoying the songs and harmonies on this album. A good album overall.

Reminds me of 2000 - Hope St. Always preferred Boy with the Arab Strap, think the pop jangle of Dirty Dream #2, sold me on Belle and Sebastian.

It grew on me pretty quick... I liked Expectations and The State I'm In the most, though the rest of the album was enjoyable as well (Electronic Renaissance probably the least). Mellow style and engaging lyrics.

Upbeat, and diverse with rich tones and sounds

Album was so, so, but their later music was much better!

I really really enjoyed this. What a gem.

Incredibly strong for a first album. I didn't LOVE it like I've loved their newer stuff, but I was very impressed. Some of the lyrics are a bit out-there and sometimes uncomfortable, but the soundscapes and overall composition is exciting and unique.

What a cool little album. I'd heard of Belle and Sebastian for a long time (I think starting with High Fidelity), but I don't know that I'd ever actually listened to them. It was certainly different, but very fun to listened to. Solid alternative pop music 4/5

Entertaining and enjoyable indie pop with some good harmonies and melpdies

Lækker vellyd og feel-good easy listening rock pop. Absolut et genlyt værd

indie pop, twee pop

Uhhhhh... It's good

Very lovely. That's all I can say, really. I appreciated the atmosphere. 4.5, not quite 5 though.

Listened before

Really diverse set of offerings here. Astounding that it was recorded in five days as a school project. It’s like proto-Sufjan.

This is #day701 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… here's to crossing another band off the list, as this is my second and final Belle & Sebastian record. There was a time in my life, a little more than ten years ago, when I probably wouldn't have minded this kind of music. Today, though, not quite. That kind of cheery, cozy mood isn't for me. Let it be a 3 out of 5 as well (the same rating I gave If You're Feeling Sinister a while back). Looking forward to #day702.

It's nice, but I've never quite understood the hype around Belle & Sebastian.

I've heard of Belle and Sebastian before, but I'm not sure that I've ever heard any of their stuff, including anything on this album. The music is very "folksy". They are an indie band and that definitely comes through on this album. I'm not sure how else to describe it other than the music is pleasant. It's not bad. It's not good. It's not very exciting. This is another one that is a bit of a head scratcher as to why it's on the list. The story of how the band formed and how this debut album got put together and was put out is interesting, but not sure that garners a spot on the list.

Decent 3.5/5. Not really a style of music that resonates with me but it's fine.

Imagine if Burt Bacharach collaborated with Simon & Garfunkel or if Elliott Smith didn't live with crippling depression, then you have a general idea of Belle & Sebastian's sound on its debut Tigermilk. Their strength is blending mellow folk with a poppy flair. Although the album is a bit samey, there are a few standouts that encapsulate what the band does best. The strummed guitars and horn and strings of "Expectations" blend a Simon & Garfunkel sound with Scottish accented vocals. "My Wandering Days Are Over" and "She's Losing It" have equally poppy vibes and feature horn solos. Sometimes the band get a bit too artsy in their songs, which is a lane they don't do as well in. "Electronic Renaissance" has an 80's art rock bent featuring weird electronic sounds and highly processed vocals. Meanwhile, "I Could Be Dancing" moves from Disney Electric Light Parade-esque synths to someone reading what sounds like a school essay at the end. This song is a bit too "quirky" for my liking. Weirdly, "I Don't Love Anyone" seems to jack the chord progression of "Only Wanna Be with You" by Hootie & the Blowfish. I doubt that was intentional, but it definitely stood out to me. Overall, if you like orchestral pop on the vein of the Moody Blues and the aforementioned Simon & Garfunkel, Burt Bacharach, and Elliott Smith, you'll enjoy the interesting chamber pop of Belle & Sebastian.

6.5

I appreciate this album as this paved the way for Belle Sebastian's illustrious career. This album is very muted and dull compared to their later work. I do love how they went a little more experimental with Electronic Renaissance.

If a Kentucky high school marching band did Neutral Milk Hotel. I got the sense that the lyrics were mostly unprofound throughout. I enjoyed Electronic Renaissance and didn't mind the album otherwise. 3 but no higher

Donovan without (as much) acid

Favorite Track: Electronic Renaissance

I like Belle & Sebastian- despite this albums reputation I’ve always preferred “if you’re feeling sinister”, everything that’s great about that album is here. Well structured songs, tightly packed vocals and varied instrumentation. I suppose it just lacks some of the dynamics of later albums. Still plenty to enjoy

Nice little groovy album, some cool tracks on here, I do like B&S, without loving them

3.5/5

Wat een keigoede album coverart! Maar zou de plaat dan niet milktiger moeten heten? Of omdat het uit haar borst komt en het aan de tijger geeft, geeft zij dus tigermilk? Deze plaat komt uit 1996, maar het eerste liedje voelt niet nineties, eerder ouder. Het heeft ook wel wat weg van John Denver; Leaving on a jet plane. Ik word niet heel warm van deze plaat, zelfs niet in deze godvergeten aardverschroeiende hitte.

Indie rock

90’s alt rock

Felt like a Zooey Deschanel of their time album

A decent indie record with a lot of uniqueness to the lyrics, creative song structures and good pacing. The singer has a strange boyishness to him which really fits with the sound they are going for. Unremarkable at times, but otherwise pleasant and entertaining on a first listen. 3.5/5

creo que lo tengo que escuchar devuelta con auris para apreciarlo, porque siento que tiene muy lindos sonidos, pero me perdi mientras trabajaba

Pretty good. Very Nick Drake inspired. Probably won't revisit, but I had a good time.

It started out really strong but the last songs blew it for me. That was a bit too whiny.

2026.06.09

The sound is cute and mostly harmless, but the inclusion of two of their albums on a list of 1001 I must hear before I die is yet another example of the proximity bias of the list. A fine but generally unremarkable UK group from the 1990s is deemed worthy of double acknowledgement, while Warren Zevon gets none? In what universe does that make sense?

Raro

This was absolutely alright.

Loved it, it's cohesive in terms of sound, but much like their second record, it laks ambition to truly be one of the greats. I like the writing in particular in some of the tracks, like I don't love anyone. But I also think in the middle of the record there are some songs that get very bland and meh, and that is a tragedy, cause it could have been much higher. But for a first record, that is often my expectation, and this one is sweet and charming if not perfect

I do love belle & Sebastian, just this felt slightly dated, perhaps I just wasn't in the mood

Not too bad. Some decent tracks. But so twee I thought Zoe Deschanel was going to jump out of my speakers and offer me a cardigan

i like she's losing it! the middle of the album i sort of started losing interest. when canon in d started playing in we rule the school i think i died a little.

This is a tough one. I never really listened to these guys at the time, but I recognize this as being very influential to a lot of my least favourite 2000s-ish music. But there’s something to it. It’s kind of rough around the edges, which you don’t hear in a lot of kinda wimpy indie rock stuff. Like maybe there were good lessons to be learned from Belle & Sebastian, but the right ones didn’t stick. I guess what I’m saying is this is fine, in a vacuum, which is one of the main waits an album can get an unenthusiastic 3.

As always, plus one for horns. This is my second B&S album from the list. I liked the first one better.

This album is like a lullaby from a beige op-shop cardigan that has been brought to life.

Not as bad as i expected. But not something ill go back to.

Belle & Sebastian – Tigermilk (1996) It was a great and warm listen, but there wasn't anything particularly special about it to make it stand out. The one major exception for me was "I Don't Love Anyone" (titled "I Don't Love Anyone" on the tracklist), which I really liked. Aside from that highlight, it lands right in the middle. 3/5

nice listening for a hot sunny day, probably won't ever listen to it again and i suspect if i'd got this one on a horrible rainy day i'd have given it a 2

Indie Rock to chill and study Favorite Song: Electronic Renaissance, I Could Be Dreaming

I quite enjoyed this one. I don’t usually get the appeal of this band but I found myself drawn to a number of tracks

A mix of weird feeling with this, some songs are cool. My favourite are: "You're Just a Baby" "My Wandering Days Are Over" "Electronic Renaissance" It didn't give me the goosebump, but i find it a good album.

Не поціновувач гурту, проте не можу не відзначити, що тут є хороші пісні. Скоріше трохи не мій стиль.

Важко сказати чому, але маю певний сентимент до цього гурту. При цьому я навряд зможу назвати умовно 3 пісні. Але є щось добре в музиці Belle & Sebastian, щось дуже таке чарівне. 3.5 ставлю.

Ok, not bad, entirely forgettable though

Oh come on, more late-90s hipster indie folk? Really? Anyway, this wasn't too interesting. It has some bits that were actually pretty good, but the whole album was just meh. The lyrics were nothing special, but the songcraft is easily the best part. The pointless synth track in the middle of the album ruins its pacing. In summary, this is a 3 star album. It's good in places, but not stellar as a whole.

Tigermilk is a really lovely album, and I was pleased to see it come up on a sunny Friday morning. I’ve always liked Belle and Sebastian, and this album is a great example of their unique style and sound. Their music feels whimsical, beautiful, and eclectic, blending indie pop with thoughtful storytelling in a way that was very different from much of what was around at the time. Every song is packed with lovely lyrics, and the album flows naturally from start to finish. While I probably prefer later albums like The Boy with the Arab Strap and tracks such as Step Into My Office, Baby, this is still a really enjoyable listen. I especially love Stuart Murdoch’s voice. It’s soft, understated, and perfect for storytelling. His lyrics really connect throughout the album, and songs like The State I Am In feel deeply personal while still being relatable and meaningful. Favourite tracks: Mary Jo, Expectations, and The State I Am In are all lovely tracks. Least favourite tracks: Every song deserves its place on the album. Album artwork: Like most Belle & Sebastian covers, it’s simple, stylish, and thoughtfully designed.

I’m pretty sure I’ve only heard a couple of Belle & Sebastian songs before today, and never thought much of them. They just seemed a bit too quiet for my tastes. But this project forces us to listen more intently, so I thought maybe I’d think differently after playing the album. What I found was that I very much enjoyed them musically. Most of the songs sounded different and were melodic and…pleasant. The lyrics that I could understand seemed intriguing, especially in comparison to the music. What I did not at all like were the vocals. I found Stuart Murdoch’s voice very annoying on most of the tracks and it took away from my overall enjoyment. The two songs that stood out for me were Electronic Renaissance (vocals recorded differently)and I Don’t Love Anyone (I found it more tolerable for some reason).

Tiene rollo chachi, pero no me genera nada nuevo :(

Fun little tunes about normal life

Singer reminds me of Sufjan Stevens. Album was easy listening.

It’s like 60s pop but with not so happy, sappy lyrics. The darkness of the lyrics were the most interesting part of this record and I’d listen to it again. This would be one of those 3.5 records but I can’t round up to 4. The music had nice melodies but nothing hit me.

This was fine, but felt samey after a while. 2.8

Not bad

Imagine if The Postal Service and Jack Johnson had a baby that wasnt as musically catchy.

Favorite songs: The State I Am In, She’s Losing It, I Could Be Dreaming, We Rule the School, I Don’t Love Anyone

Songs are pleasant though the overall sound of the album lacks variety. Really disliked the album cover on this one, found it rather offputting.

I don’t know if I have ever heard them before, although it sounded familiar. The album was fine

Whoops, mixed up tigers and nearly gave this one Le Tigre's rave. I think there's a lot more going here that deserves a further listen, but it doesn't grab me enough to go there soon.

This seems like a pretty standard indie pop/rock album. Quirky and mild and not all that interesting to me. I guess they were ahead of their time though because this sounds like it was made for the 2010s.

Quand j'ai vue le look de l'album, j'étais pas sur ! Mais en l'écoutant, j'ai eu des vibe de la série How I met your mother qui étais plus que bienvenue. Un album qui s'écoute très bien lors d'un moment lecture ou tout simplement dans un moment détente. Ça donne vraiment un bon mood !

This made me want reminded me of Nick Drake, made me pine for jim Croce, and made me want to listen to Death Cab for Cutie. I think that's all I have to say, and I'm just as confused by my review as you are, so don't sweat it ⭐⭐.75

Pleasant

Pleasant gentle indie, enjoyed that more than I expected

not bad

I like their second album mor, this one is definitely a little boring though has some good melodies and atmosphere strewn throughout

Ein charmantes, leicht schepperndes Debüt, das schon den typischen Belle‑&‑Sebastian‑Mix aus schüchterner Melancholie und literarischem Witz zeigt. „The State I Am In“ glänzt als stiller Klassiker, „Expectations“ trägt bittersüße Energie, und „My Wandering Days Are Over“ deutet das melodische Talent der Band an. Schön, aber noch hörbar roh – ein leiser Start mit Potenzial.

Sounds nice enough, but a little dull and flat for me.

Definitely not what I expected! Nothing to write home about though. 3/5

album dolce, indie rock molto morbido e orecchiabile con alcune chicche all'interno! consigliato anche "the boy with the arab strap"

I can see how this a hipster favorite. Vocals are just too boring and quiet for me. I did enjoy some of the music though. 2-3 stars.

Pop rock chill, un peu vibe Simon & Garfunkel ou Sufjan Stevens mais non dépressif

Sympa mais un peu calme « Electronic renaissance » est chouette

Sympa, une bonne écoute

First time hearing of this band and it sounds like a more energetic version of The Velvet Underground. Very okay album, nothing too impressive about it. Sort of calming chill vibe throughout all the songs but also a bit boring

Never heard of this group, however I enjoyed most of their music.

Some familiar sounds and lotsa different genres combined , lo fi pop though not my cake

Average.

This was fine, they are good but idk if they are good enough to go in here twice?

Very soft, kinda nice.

I thought this album was pretty interesting.

The most Wes Anderson coded band of all time

Nice and chill for cleaning!

I liked 'Expectations' a lot, although maybe it's just because I first heard it in 'Juno', but overall it was a nice, albeit lame, listen for an indie album. Almost the entire thing felt like it could have been a soundtrack, and it was much better than their second album. Like I said, it's lame, but it's enjoyable for a teenage white girl like myself.

Хорошая поп группа, которая притворяется хуевой инди группой

🥱😴😴😴

Fine little tunes, probably not going to listen often but a bop or two

Like their later albums better

I preferred it to If You're Feeling Sinister so an extra point.

Not really heard much from them before, but a very atmospheric and pleasant listen - really enjoyed it

Pretty ok

Generationally, definitionally twee. These guys were respected like a motherfucker for a while in the late 90s early 2000s seems like critical consensus has moved on. There are some nice songs/moments.

OK but didn’t fully capture my imagination

agradable

My first Belle & Sebastian. I have been adjacent to their music for a while but Ive never really listened in earnest. I found myself enjoying it- they seem ahead of their time with the indie rock pop folksy sound. Overall- good album. 3.5/5

I'd never listened to Belle and Sebastian properly before now. I was glad to see "Tigermilk" come up, but it turns out that I was expecting to like it more than I did. Don't get me wrong. It's grand. I really liked the first two songs on the album. "The State I Am In" builds up from almost silence to something really nice, blending acoustic melodies with layers of electronic textures. "Expectations" use of flamenco-esque acoustic chords and subtle brass in the background actually reminds me a little bit of Neutral Milk Hotel. It lacks the grittiness or brilliance of NMH, but high comparison all the same. "Electronic Renaissance" is by far the most interesting song on the album. I'm not saying it's the best, but it does wake you up, right at the moment you're about to doze off. The intro is the best bit of the track, with all of its wonky weirdness. Everything else is... grand. There's not a lot else going on that grabs my interest. It's decent indie fare, and at times makes me think of the influence they must have had on the likes of The Shins and others, but I'm just not connecting with it fully. It's all a pleasant listening experience, but not the most memorable thing I've heard in a while.

Not quite as good as what was to come on Are You Feeling Sinister, but there’s still a lot to like here

I don't know what it is but it has something. Kinda beautiful

very pleasent

whatever. an inoffensive, bland, middle of the road 3 out of 5, maybe even ventures into 2.5 territory bc of how much I don’t care for the lead singer’s voice

1996 was a wild year for indie music, apparently. I know Modest Mouse and Neutral Milk Hotel both put out their debuts in 1996. Compared to those, I don't see a whole lot with this album. I can hear its influence in a lot of bands I listen to because I grew up listening to gay Tumblr music, but I'd still rather listen to Tally Hall or Lemon Demon over this band. It had its moments, though. I was a big fan of the instrumentation in Expectations and We Rule the School is a wonderfully emotional song, but as a whole the album is decent. My inner Tumblr Gay™ can absolutely appreciate this album's place in history no matter how I feel about it and it'll probably be one of those albums I forget about and come back to a year later and think it's a masterpiece. Totally unrelated, but why did they decide to make the woman on the cover completely naked except for her watch? I don't know why that's what caught my eye on the album cover, but it's just weird for a watch to be the only thing on her.

Probably deserves better but I'm just a little tired of the indie rock rn

The album was sneaky sonically as each song felt unique in a way that some previous album did not. Definitely some good songs but an album that is greater than the sum of its parts.

I went through several emotions with this. I went from "this is really good!" to "well it's actually just okay" to "okay I don't think I like this after all". And then I went back again. So I....... guess it's pretty good? It probably just isn't my thing.

it's alright, cursed album cover though Will I listen to again: 17%

kinda vibey, but not outstanding

Good easygoing wispy indie stuffs, strongest at the start but the rest is nice too

This is another 3 to 3.5 for me. I've only ever liked a little Bell & Sebastian, as most of their music falls flat for me. It feels lifeless and even some of the wit gets lost among a lot of the music that really feels too tame and unchallenging. That being said, I can respect some of what they were doing at the time they started and some clever lyrics and songwriting. It just doesn't truly impress.

As a whole album it felt a bit one note to me. The songs were all quite similar. I think I would enjoy listening to the songs singularly as opposed to collectively. 3/5

Grrreat

okay!

It's not bad, but far too tame for my tastes. There's nothing about it. His lisp got annoying after a while though, and I got bored around halfway through. It was fine to wake up to, but I won't be listening again.

interesting and enjoyable

Like nursery rhymes or old kid show intros. Very light

It's decent. Calm, nothing groundbreaking, but they play very well and have a good sound. It's not going to blow you mind but it will calm your nerves.

achei que seria um sonífero, mas até que tem umas músicas bacanas.

Thoughts before listening: Twee pop band from Scotland I believe. I dont know them all that well, but I do typically enjoy their songs when I hear them. I think this is their second album I've heard on this project, and I liked the first one quite a bit. Review: This is okay, but not as good as the other B&S album on here. There's a little of the Smiths/REM jangle, some pre-psychedelic 60s rock melodies, and it's all sung with hushed, whisper vocals. I like the first half of the album better than the second which loses me a bit. Overall, this is fine, but I can't give it more than 3-stars.

3.5

I like it - it’s a lovely album to listen too

I've listened to most of their albums before starting this 1001 project. It's B&S, so of course it's good. I enjoy a couple of their albums more, but this is a solid debut. 3.25/5.

It's weird. The lyrics are sometimes like Fleetwood Mac but the music is more like… some kiddy band my parents used to put on in the car. Not my thing.

I appreciate that Belle and Sebastian have their own sound - not quite like anything else we've listened to on this project, though not massively unique. Listening to this, I liked it but don't think it's anything I would go back and listen to again. Just not my thing.

For being released in 1996, this album gave me similar vibes to that of the indie folk genre that was really popular in the early 2010s (Lumineers-esque). My favorite track was "She's Losing It"

I did like how the songs really jumped around style wise

This album is *pretty* but otherwise really not for me

Not sure what to say about Tigermilk. The music was relatively pleasant. At the same time it was pretty minimalistic and I don't see it having any staying power in my mind. I guess I enjoyed the listen but at the same time I can't ever see myself thinking about going back to revisit this. A couple songs I enjoyed, but an hour after listening to it I'm not sure I could tell you the name of a single one. Tigermilk, and Belle & Sebastian by extension, feels like an OK indie pop album that would have a song featured in a popular indie movie that falls out of the cultural zeitgeist or doesn't age well and gets lost to time (maybe like Garden State?). Even if it has its moments, when the dust settles it ends up as a middle of the pack entry. 2.55 stars

Om

Top Songs: Expectations You're Just A Baby My Wandering Days Are Over

The music was quite pleasant. However, there wasn't a single track that made me want to listen to it again. The whole album hovered between nice and boring. 3/5

I liked this. I wish I could do 3.5 stars.

A pretty chill listen with some nice moments. Not a lot that stood out above the crowd but I still enjoyed it well enough.

This album is really boring at times. I did not think I would like this and, even though some songs were nice (and with beautiful arrangements too), they were a very small part of a not that nice overall. In general, the album lacks of having some kind of hook. It just kicks off with a very bland song and goes on an on repeating the same kind of music. For me, it is a very uninteresting music. I do not get anything much of my like, the delivery does not feel much impressive for me and I cannot find a single song that makes me love it, so, even if there are some nice songs, they are not that great for me to think this album deserves a bit of a much in depth listening. With one is enough. And it is not that this album is bad, but it is not of my taste, definitely.

Pretty chill music but probably not something I would revisit

I feel like a Alex g fan will absolutely love this album and I liked it, I don't know if I'll listen to songs from this album, but overall it was good

Admittedly, I judged a book by its cover so I was wary, I actually liked it more than I thought I would. It felt very 70s imo but in a good way, I saved 6/10 songs so 3 stars ⭐️

It was fine background music, but I don’t really understand why it was on this list.

This record, as far as I've listened to it, is perhaps not quite as precious as I figured it would be. Although that's not to say that it's not cutesy or precious at all; it certainly does hit some of those notes. But it is a bit less obnoxious than I anticipated. I do enjoy some of the pop hooks, but I'm also a little annoyed that the record never really moves out of any folksy, hipster patterns of songsmanship. I also enjoy the thoroughly Scottish accent, but the artist does lean on that aspect of the music pretty hard. For me, I think I'd rather just listen to Frightened Rabbit to get my Scot fix and not have to wrestle with the precious aesthetic here so much. 3/5

It's interesting. I enjoyed the variety of style from song to song, but the overall tone stayed mostly the same.This is not something that I would ever intentionally listen too.

Need to give it another listen. I felt like I was listening to VU. Some catchy songs but didn't love anything in particular.

Inte hemskt att lyssna på men liiiite trist

Trevligt mjukt sound!

I love the album If You're Feeling Sinister and for years I tried to like anything else by them and it never happens. On this record, the vibe is very poppy but it doesn't have the requisite hooks to pull it off.

The musical aspects of this album were very nice, with the guitar, drums, flute and other instruments creating an upbeat rhythm that I’m sure would be fun to play. The lyrics, however, were pretty weird. They were the kind of things that I might be embarrassed to sing in public, which is not a good look for this album. Overall, I enjoyed it, but there were a few things missing that prevented it from being a “good” album. A high 3.

About half of the tracks had really good music with bad lyrics. About half had pretty boring music with bad lyrics. High 3. Favorite Track: The State I Am In

padrão, foca mais em contar histórias pessoais do que em melodia. a mais diferente é eletronic renaissance. não é ruim de escutar, mas nada revolucionário também.

I already know I like this group and there are a couple songs on this album that are in my top tracks of 1996 playlist. "The State I Am In" stands a good chance of being in my top 500 favorite tracks of all time. Currently I have it ranked at 23 for 1996. The album as a whole is pretty decent but not something I would actively seek out to listen to in it's entirety. I would give it 3 out of 5 stars most likely.

Catchy chamberpop with a series of songs that make you smile. As an album essentially thrown together by a group of musicians also thrown together the songs are surprisingly lively with Murdoch’s vocals a little thin but not unpleasant. It is easy to see why this record was an indie hit. While not sonically impressive, it doesn’t really matter as the songwriting is so strong. Essentially this was Scotland’s answer to the Chills.

It’s fine. I hate not having half stars. It just means pretty crappy and pretty good get the same goddamn rating.

Fairly average 90s folkish-rock. A few standout songs and makes me want to hear the band’s later albums, but I wouldn’t call it essential.

Has a song from the Juno soundtrack. Have to be in the mood for this

It's fine, won't be listening again. Lyrics are more interesting than the melodies. 3/5.

If your Spotify Wrapped says that you're into "Twee Millennial Indie Pop That Was Probably Used In An Episode Of Scrubs Or A Mumblecore Movie", then this is probably your favorite artist. You also may actually be Zach Braff himself.

I hated this.

coffee shop music (no offense)

Decent album.

they have better ones

A high 3 for me

Decent, gentle album. Mostly pleasant but nothing in here is particularly exciting. Favorites: The State I Am In,

Lugn

Interesting. I liked the melodies.

A bit wishy washy but nearly a 4 as folk like a bit of wishy washy. The intimate narrative of the songs is outstanding and definitely should be in the list.

Album #1: Tigermilk - Belle and Sebastian. Genre (according to Wikipedia): Indie pop, chamber pop Singles?: No. Have you heard any songs from this album or group before? No. Thoughts?: Right now, the album sounds like songs I’d hear in a coffee shop. Not that it’s a bad thing, it’s a relaxing experience. I love the chamber pop influences, I think that’s contributing to its “coffee shop” sound. This album may not have the staying power of other albums, but it is decent enough background music. As for the lyrics, they’re pretty good, but again, the vocals are buried within the mix and this becomes coffee shop music. Favorite songs: The State I Am In, Electronic Renaissance As a writer, what can you use this music for when honing your craft?: I could potentially use the album for rainy days, based on the titular Apple Music playlist. Also, because of its laidback indie pop status, I could use it for specific scenes, particularly ones inside coffee shops (see a theme here?). File correlations: Files #007-009: Tallis Tales, Silvercrest Services (depends on the scenes), Force Devils (Mainly Brent and Bianca focused).

Never heard of this group. It's hard to describe this music. Parts are kind of modernized folk-pop and parts seem to be a mash up of Nick Drake and Elvis Costello. Overall, not bad to listen to.

A bit of a mixed bag, but pretty nice.