Reviews (page 7 of 9)
Good at times but it's all slightly too wanky for me.
I can’t say with any certainty that Belle And Sebastian have ever come up on my radar before. The album art is a little odd (to say the least) so I’m truly unsure of what to expect here. Is this gonna be super weird? Let’s listen and find out. Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Expectations This was a pretty chilled out album. It’s fairly minimal and is mostly acoustic. I’d probably say it’s music that makes me want to toast marshmallows. The vocals are imperfect but charming, and the music is decent but not remarkable. This is an album that I enjoyed, but it didn’t really have any lasting impact on me. Realistically, I’m unlikely to come back to this, but I enjoyed the day listening to it.
Mesmo com o o vocal da Isobel aparecendo no final da última música, não tem como eu agradar desse rock bonitinho, indie sem graça.
Underrated: I say that if no one rates the album or the band but from the reviews on here I think it deserves more credit than people give. I loved the beat to some of the songs with chord progressions I'm honestly dying to learn on guitar bc they sound so nice. Will definitely listen to this album again multiple times and maybe the rest of the discography as I've never heard of this group. Overall really enjoyed it.
I'm a fan of their peaceful and happy jangly chamber pop. Album starts off with two killer catchy and lush tracks, but I don't think it reaches that high again unlike their next album If You're Feeling Sinister which is full of bangers. Several filler songs like "You're Just a Baby" or "We Rule the School", but there are lots of beautiful moments, like the woodwind and harmonies in the closer "Mary Jo" or the ethereal vocals in "My Wandering Days," even if I'm not a fan of the first half of either song. They get creative with electric production on "Electronic Renaissance" and "I Could Be Dreaming" (reminds me of Stereolab or Of Montreal) but they don't fit in too well, and I'm not sure it exactly matches their style.
Tigermilk for a debut record is remarkable. Recorded with a group of near-strangers, for a music-business class. It wasn’t meant to be heard, just a curiosity for the band. Stuart Murdoch, the band leader had a deep knowledge of indie pop. When you hear the record you can hear notes of these influences throughout. It’s a lush, gorgeous record which fully deserves to be in this list.
Some nice moments. I never really got into Belle and Sebastian, although I'm going to see them live soon. Light, nice, very British.
4/10, 40%
Expectations is a fine indie tune. Some acoustic strum with horn accompaniment. Solid production that evokes a vague Grizzly Bear mixed with John Mayer vibe. This seems like music for people who like lyrics. Which is not to say I don't like lyrics, I just don't care to pay attention to them right now. More horns coming in on She's Losing It. This is a boppy little pop number. I think this is my favorite song so far; a lot of depth to the composition between the horns, drums, background guitar, and lyrical guitar work towards the middle. Electronic Renaissance is the first song to actively command my attention here. Interesting introduction that inverts on top of itself before plowing forward into a synth-heavy rhythm. Interesting song -- I'm into it. I Could Be Dreaming is another jam with some psych guitar feedback effects and samples towards the end. Unexpectedly strong mid-section to this album. Album kind of petered out from what I recall; I'll have to listen back through again. All said, this was a pretty solid indie album with good production and composition. There were a few standouts that commanded attention, but otherwise the songs were more lyrical than I had attention for at the time of listening. I fall at a 3 leaning 4 on this one; rounding up because I think I would enjoy listening to it again.
One of my all-time favorites
wow what a beautiful record. such a warm and comforting listen. classic sad lyric/happy music dichotomy. love love love She’s Losing It. the album has a cohesive feel and there’s not a song that i didn’t like. such a soothing voice and the arrangements are driving yet side soft and pretty. fantastic song writing overall.
day 27. a great morning listen, lots of very infectious tunes with stories that draw you in, just enough melancholy to give it depth, but not too much to tip the scale into depressing. felt very balanced and I really liked the flow of the album. standouts - Expectations, She's Losing It, The State I'm In, I Could Be Dreaming ... yeah I feel like I could keep going, this is good. misses - I Don't Love Anyone, You're Just A Baby 4/5
Easy. 'She's losing it' is giving drive to a beach, adore the violins. 'You're just a baby' sounds like a begin again song! Electronic Renaissance is quirky and i love it. vocals: a minus point!!!
Album was interesting, I’m not a huge fan of light and mellow vocals but the instrumentality made up for it. Big variety in what instruments were played in every song and overall vibes were good. My favorite song was Electronic Renaissance because of the intro and I’m a big fan of the rhythm. Overall 3.55 :D
"Electronic Renaissance" was interesting. Other songs were good, but not my cup of tea. Felt older than it is. 3
This is an interesting one to review. It clearly is of its time, yet quite strikingly different to its better known contemporaries. The queer is strong with this, but in a very 90s way. It seems quite astonishing 25 years later that the world was ever as closed off as it was in the 90s - but there we go. I can't say that I like it. I can understand its place and its influence, but I don't think I'll be opting for repeats.
This was great, indie, pop, folk, rock whatever category you want to put it in, it was an enjoyable listen. I particularly liked "The State I'm In" and "She's Losing It". The Pachabel Canon in D that comes through in "We Rule the School" was also interesting. Overall a good album
love them, love this album
Love B&S, specially their first albums, if 1st song on 1st album is as good as the State I'm In, what's more to want? 5 stars
This will be another bias review for a Scottish band I like, brilliant indie pop album, I’m more familiar with their second and third albums, but this is still great.
Knows what it is, which is a beautiful little indie pop set if tunes. Perfect for a summer afternoon.
Kinda beautiful
Electronic Renaissance was my favorite track (reminds me a bit of LCD Soundsystem). I really wanted to like B&S; I've heard them mentioned so many times. But most of the songs on this album felt boring to me. I like simple stuff, but it feels TOO simple or something. A couple of the tracks sound like a talented comedian doing a spoof of mellow, introspective folk music.
My first five star new discovery - obviously well aware of Belle and Sebastian, but I had them down as something twee and poppish. What I got instead was an incredibly rich album full of wit and catchy hooks. Blinder
leuk maar not special
Mooi rustig
Revelation here as I would never choose to listen to this. BEAUTIFUL album, expertly produced and written. Must hear. Best in the morning possibly while foggy out.
I like a lot of what's here, but the limp, wimpy vocals bring it down. Favorite track: I Don't Love Anyone
Mainstay on my rotation. Pithy perfect pop music.
Great but I really like the later stuff with more harmony and instrumentation better
Seems simple but provoking lyrics and interesting melody
Meh
Fine
More like kitten milk. This cotton soft woe-is-me brand of hipster wimpiness does nothing but irritate me. Go purr yourselves. 😾
Thank God that's over. I detest Belle and Sebastian's particular brand of vomit-inducing soft rock stylings. Giving this 2 stars only because (a) it was slightly better than other B&S music I've been forced to listen to, and (b) the album cover is pretty alright.
Cool, but not outstanding.
Very good debut album, fits the kinda indie vibe I like.
I always thought of Belle and Sebastian as just light, fluffy, twee pop. And most of this album is that, but I was surprised to find a little more experimental sound in some of the middle tracks. Overall enjoyable and a little surprising, but I probably won’t be listening to this one often
Enjoyable
Bored the shit out of me
Me gusto el instrumental súper tranquilo y con pequeños detalles, las voces se acoplan muy bien con el estilo, me gustó en general, lo escucharía nuevamente
This is one of those "oh, that's who made that song" moments. Overall I love the simplicity and enjoy the cynical lyrics. May not be great in large doses, but the album is great.
4.3 mega chill men også noe man bare kan høre på
Was pretty good. Not the type of music I generally listen to but I’m glad I got to hear it.
I love some Belle & Sebastian. This isn't my favorite, but it's much better than the newer stuff that I can't get into at all. 4/5
Never thought that I’d learn to appreciate Belle & Sebastian, but the guitars sound incredible here, and their songwriting can be quite soothing. Ultimately still not going to be my first choice, but I get it now. B-
A strong example of mid 90s indie
Nice easy listening. Evokes a strong 60s vibe.
Pretty but nothing engaging. Inoffensive. Acceptable at a cocktail party. Not really for this kind of list.
I hate this band.
Twee indie stuff. Reminds me of Donovan or Cat Stevens, which is not what I was expecting. The lyrics didn't really jump out at me, so not really sure what it was all about. And I don't really like the voice. Thought I would like this more than I did. Disappointing.
The trumpet saves the songs here. There's some half decent melodies and structures. But they need a bit of brass to flush them out. The production is a little too DIY and tinny for my liking. I've always felt B&S to be something of a closed scene. You need to be really into the little grouping to get the music, unlike other outsiders of the time such as Pulp. I didn't fancy hanging out with bed wetters.
One of my favourite bands; this was always going to get a 5. B&S are one of those bands who seem to have pulled off the trick of longevity. They've changed and grown but never completely lost what made them fresh and great. This first album though is a real thing of beauty. Fragile and innocent sounding - although anything but. It's not actually an album I reach for as much as the later ones but it absolutely showcases what B&S are about. I hope some of those will come later.
Not my favourite. Fairly pretentious.
I'd drink that
One B&S was pretty far fetched for this list, but a second one, really? It's not bad, but there's just really nothing incredible in there
Nice debut album. not too long, great cohesion.
Why 2 Belle And Sebastian albums on the 1001 list? I don't know, but... It was great! The song "Electronic Renaissance" was a huge unexpected surprise and just became my favorite track from them.
Very chill music that I’m not all that into. Listen again: no Purchase for my collection: no Favourite Song: Electronic Renaissance Worst Song: didn’t like a lot of them
not for me
Belle & Sebastian is a group that I’ve flat out failed getting into despite being a perfect band for me on paper. So many of their influences, contemporaries, and bands that cite them as an influence are all favorites of mine, yet I’d feel something revolting inside of me every time I’d try to give them a go. This is a perfect example of why I wanted to take on this project. I left my preconceived notions at the door before giving this another shot, and I’m happy I did. I think my biggest hurdle with them has always been Stuart Murdoch and his whispy vocals, it was a problem I was still having initially this go around. Then I got to Electronic Renaissance and things seem to be finally clicking into place. I Could Be Dreaming helped me further, and by We Rule the School I was doing a firm 180 on how I felt about their sound as a whole. The entire back half won me over, and as soon as it ended, I played the whole thing again. Most of the albums I’ve been reviewing on here have been based on initial impressions after a single play-through, and that’s where I’ve left most of them at since, but I’m halfway through my fourth play-through and I’m really beginning to love this album. Looking forward to more by them when they no doubt show up again on this list.
Better than the first album and has a strong start. Think it falls off abit and musically becomes not all that impressive. Trumpet/violin near the beginning was great though. 7/10
This was ok. I like Belle & Sebastian generally, but this album is not one of my favorites. It’s sort of just ‘there’.
One likes this less than If You're Felling Sinister and The Boy with the Arab Strap, but still enjoys it for the craft, the intelligent/literate songwriting and general vibe. The second half of the record is much the stronger. "We Rule the School" is lovely, the best of this lot. "Wandering Days" and "I Don't Love Anyone" and "Mary Jo" are also strong. "The State I'm In" is essential B&S and "Electronic Renaissance" an engaging diversion.
I didn’t hate it, as it kind of grew on me as it went Glad I listened to it once
This is a good intro to the indie scene from the early 00s
Favorite part by far is the first 75 seconds of Electronic Renaissance, before the 80s drums come in. What I think of as "mood music." Not something I'd play regularly but there's a mental space for this type of album.
there are songs of theirs that I like but they aren't here very similar to sufjan minus the emphasis on the concept album 2.5
Eðal-albúm!
Not a lot of range in the album.
It was good! It's leaning towards a 3.5 actually.
A little bit hazy and dream-like to be too interesting
Chill
I've been a big Belle & Sebastian fan since I got into them in high school and this is a great debut album. They already sound so fully realized. The lyrics and songwriting is super strong. I still listen to this one often outside of this exercise, so this was an easy listen. Standout Tracks: The State I'm In, You're Just A Baby, I Could Be Dreaming, We Rule The School, My Wandering Days Are Over, I Don't Love Anyone, Mary Jo
It's okay, reminded me of Simon and Garfunkel. I liked a couple songs but most were pretty boring.
A little dull
Weird album with a weird name. Wasn't terrible to listen to but didn't really care for it. 3 stars
Kinda reminds me of Spoon or Barenaked Ladies. These are fun, upbeat songs. Electronic Renaissance is different, but I really like it. Overall an album I enjoyed and would listen to again. After reading about it on Wikipedia I don't really understand why it's on this 1001 albums list. Something about the record label's success, maybe?
First full album I’ve ever listened to by Belle and Sebastian. Really enjoyed it. Seemed like nice music to listen to while walking through the park on a nice September afternoon
Indie darlings. Great music to listen to in the morning whilst sipping on coffee. Arrangements are pretty beautiful. Will seek out more Belle & Sebastian.
I should have appreciated B&S more than I did in my punk-pop 90s heyday. Granted, these are simple songs - mostly two or three chords on a loop for 4 minutes at a time. If I heard one person singing this in a coffee shop I'd probably hate it, but the arrangements and the instrumentation are really well done. It can be hard to make a simple song interesting - much less a whole album of simple songs. I don't know if Toad the Wet Sprocket is a far comparison here, but they trigger the same happy spot in my brain.
Enjoyed it quite a bit
Pleasant enough but let down by crap singing
Tout le monde va évidemment parler de la performance vocale de Sébastien mais que dire du pelage de Belle... Il est doux et soyeux, avec une couleur blanche brillante. De plus, il est facile à entretenir et à garder propre grâce à sa texture lisse.
Belle et Sebastien viennent ici se présenter en tant que tauliers du générateur. L'amitié liant Sebastien à son chien est une nouvelle fois des plus touchantes, et l'on se réjouit d'avance de visionner le prochain épisode.
Jaunty, lovely, peppy. When the trumpet pops, it's tingles down my back. Very solid, bit slow.
It's nice to have gotten this album sooner rather than later. I don't think this is as good as If You're Feeling Sinister, but it was still very good. Still has a similar feeling that I enjoyed. I'd say maybe a few of the songs should have been a little shorter, but that's fine. They were still enjoyable. My favourite songs were Expectations, Electric Renaissance, and I Could Be Dreaming.
Debut album for these guys. Nice chill indie vibes, they definitely have their own sound, while at the same time showing the Scottish independent scene really well
Not my style. There were a couple beats I enjoyed in a couple songs, but overall I just didn't enjoy this one.
2.5. Seems ok.
remarkably inoffensive
I didn't love this album but it was put together in three days. I'll listen to more of there stuff for sure.
1. The State That I Am in: lovely little folk song, enjoy this one a lot. singers soft voice compliments the instrumental really well. 8.5/10. 2. Expectations: love how upbeat this song is, overall a banger. 10/10. 3. She's Losing It: great melody, cheery vibes and upbeat. 8/10. 4. Electronic Renaissance: starts of bit crazy but really grows on you. 8.5/10 5. You're Just a Baby: makes you swing, love the vocal layering. 7.5/10. 6. I Could Be Dreaming: yeah just great sounding. 9/10 7. We Rule the School: nice mellow song, great violin and vocal layering. 8/10. 8. My Wandering Days Are Now: again super nice song, very chill. Two voice part was nice. 8.5/10 9. I Don't Love Anyone: alright but maybe a bit bland compared to the rest. 7/10. 10. Mary Jo: ahh this one is great. lovely mellow vibes and just great vocals. They seem much clearer than the rest of the tracks. 10/10.
Svag för debutalbum.
This was super pleasant to listen to. All of a similar style but upbeat musically (maybe not lyrically) so nice to listen to.
The beginning of a great career. A pleasure to listen to every time.
4/5. A sweet and beautiful album that feels innocent and young, riddled with trauma and sadness. I will have to see if that feeing lasts to bump it up to a 5 but is definitely a relisten.
Weird album art aside, I found this album to be good background music while I was reading. Nothing really stood out that grabbed my attention. Decent music overall, I may revisit them later on.
Already know and love this record. Brilliant.
Great.. too samey though.. idk. Kind of blends. First 3 tracks are really great. Nothing really special, basic jangly indie-pop-rock with British guy singer + clean smooth folksy-tinged sound. Seems like it influenced a lot of 2010s indie pop/rock. No amazing melodies, nothing outstanding. The Pumpkins and Nick Cave records were significantly better Edit: nvm. Relistening to this. It's growing on me.
I was not familiar with this album, although "She's Losing It" was given to me on a mix CD many years ago by a dear old friend and was enough of a favorite that it made it into my iTunes playlists in the iPod era. I hate to call it delightful, since that seems like it's more lightweight than it is, but it was. My rating reflects that I really wanted to spend more time with it today than I was able.
I found some of these tracks musically kind of cute, and others a bit disappointing...kind of like under-seasoned food that smells great but tastes kind of bland. It was just like a little something was missing at times for me.
I really like Belle and Sebastian but I find their songs really hard to tell apart and they have SO many! This isn't my favorite B&S album but it's nice.
I was introduced to Belle and Sebastian in the late nineties and was instantly taken by their catchy melodies. The lyrics peer into moments in the lives of interesting characters. These little slices of life are peppered with surprises - sometimes in stark contrast to the jaunty tunes. My imagination takes off filling in details of these fascinating stories. These songs still manage to surprise and delight even though this album has been in heavy rotation for more than 20 years. I never get tired of these lovely vignettes. This is such a perfect album - one of my all-time favorites.
I love this album and all its tweeness. On a side note, I do think this list would be greatly improved if they didn't include multiple albums by the same artists. This is my second Belle and Sebastian album in a week and even I will say they are an acquired taste
Rating: 6/10 Best songs: Expectations
Meh
что-то как-то мимо немного....
More of a feminist text than an album. It doesn’t quite compare to Sinister, but still a lot to like. Electronic Renaissance and I Don’t Love Anyone we’re the highlights.
a selection of some really cute and some really trippy tracks. i enjoyed this way more than i thought i originally would
The debut record by Belle And Sebastian is a very earnest one. Some songs get autobiographical at points, mainly the beautiful "The State I Am In". It sets the bar very high for the rest of the album, or even their career. But the album features plenty of other great songs, with beautiful arrangements and lovely lyrics. Favorite lyrics: - Soon you will know that you are sane. You're on top of the world again. - When the first cup of coffee tastes like washing up. - If you had such a dream. Would you get up and do the things you believe in? Key tracks: The State I Am In, Expectations, She's Losing It, Electronic Renaissance, We Rule The School, My Wandering Days Are Over, I Don't Love Anyone 8 out of 10
The unmistakable sound of B & S... Love it
I'm sure there are some Belle and Sebastian songs that I like. I gave this album 3 goes and I didn't really get into it. Fave tracks would be She's Losing It and Mary Jo.
This gets a bit of a nostalgia bump, for sure - seem to remember piecing this album together from individual tracks obtained from napster or limewire in the very early naughts.... Actually, though, even without the nostalgia bump, this really holds up - some absolutely fantastic songs! Fave tracks - "The State I Am In" is probably my overall fave B&S track. On this play through, "Electronic Renaissance" really stood out to me, too....
One of the many excellent Belle & Sebastian albums, first rate song writing as ever :D
10/10
2nd February 2023 Listened in the morning and worked from home. 12 week scan in the afternoon, finished US traitors in the evening. Cracking bit of classic indie, sounds like the most intelligent kids in your class got together and recorded and album.
The State I Am In- 7.5 Expectations- 7 She's Losing It- 7.8 You're Just a Baby- 8 Electronic Renaissance- 6.2 I Could Be Dreaming- 7.2 We Rule The School- 6.7 My Wondering Days Are Over- 8.2 I Don't Love Anyone- 8.4 Mary Jo- 8.3
Nice indie pop with a warm feel; not conventional enough to feel boring yet the more experimental passages felt like they could use some expanding upon. All in all a nice collection of songs to sing along to.
Exceeded my expectations! I will definitely be listening to more folky stuff. Beautiful instrumentals and messages in every song. Strong 9, maybe even a 10.
Decent
It's good, but not as good as "If You're Feeling Sinister".
Every bit as intriguing and introspective, lilting and lovely as one expects from B&S but, honestly, a notch below their best (Sinister and Arab Strap). The merits feel as literary or novelistic as they do musical, though light touches of excellent craftsmanship abound. Nobody does wistful young despair or hopelessness as well as Murdoch – see "State I'm In" and "Don't Love Anyone" and "Wandering Days" as exhibits A-C. One admires their hiding out from the media for so long and retaining their mystery, which was additive to the brand.
Half was good. Didn't like the first two songs. Nothing that I would go back to
MEH. Also wtf, why do people enjoy listening to singers who sing flat? So grating. Couldn't make it past halfway. Whiny garbage.
So fucking great I can’t wait to listen to it again. Inventive and fun all the way through.
This is great indie pop. Wiki calls it Scottish pop, but I can't hear much of an accent. "The State I Am In" is quite excellent. The rest is also good, but it doesn't stand out. I enjoyed the whole album.
What's worse than a boring, monotonous, '60s folk rock album made by yet another group of white dudes, and a saccharine, indie choirboy record with zero grit from the mid to late '00s? An album that simultaneously sounds like both of those genres. Blech.
I don't know. I feel like I should like Belle and Sebastian. It's objectively my style. It's just so pretentious. And I don't hate pretentious - I love Morrisey. Something about this just feels like they wouldn't want me as a fan. So, I'm not.
A filler
short hair gang booba it was alright
Here's me again, disagreeing with how Apple Music labelled the genre on this. It remains to be seen why that bugs me so much. I'm surprised this came out in 1996 as it sounds like early 2000s indie singer-songwriter. I'm shocked, SHOCKED that nothing from this album is on the Garden State soundtrack. If you liked this album, you'll love that soundtrack. Anyway, I really liked this. Singer-songwriter is hit or miss for me, and this album was a bit of both. I preferred the peppier songs; not so much the slower ones. I'll be saving a few songs to my 1001 Highlights playlist.
This really brings me back. Super serotonin boost.
liked songs: she's losing it mary jo didnt like: all the rest
bored me
I love B&S. Spotify reckons they’re my 3rd most listened to band since I joined in 2009. Despite that, Tigermilk is for some reason one of their albums I haven’t ‘milked’ as much. On a whole I think this a good record with the delicacy and intricacy you expect from B&S. It’s not their best though. It sounds to me like a young band finding their way, before perfecting it on follow up albums (If You’re Feeling Sinister in particular being a gem of a follow on). I can’t bear to vote them anything less than a 4, as they are such a special band, but this album isn’t quite as special as others. And it’s the album up for review, not the band. But I love them. Perhaps if I spent as long working as I have agonising over an arbitrary star rating system, I perhaps wouldn’t have to work late tonight.
Aggressively beige, with lyrics that aren't as clever as the guy singing them things they are. Not offensive but wouldn't go back, it's a debut though so maybe I'll prefer later stuff
Jack tried to convince me this was akin to Simon and Garfunkel. I'm afraid I found it quiet and forgettable. I have heard that their other albums are good, if I have a respite from this task I might take a look through their back catalogue.
As soon as this album started I knew I wasn't going to like it, I found it to be very boring. On one of the public reviews on this site someone wrote, "So inoffensive it makes me want to go commit crimes just to make up for how fucking boring it is.". That is a bit harsh but not far off how I'm feeling.
I quite enjoyed this but can't deny it wasn't pretty bland. My dad was a fan when I was growing up, I didn't recognise any of this though. Perhaps they have more interesting albums...
Twee, quiet, fine. The sort of music for precocious teenage girls starting art college. Quirky I suppose, simple, understated, not quite boring but not far off. You won't be offended by this folksy, twinkly, introspective little album but it struggles to light a fire for me
It’s like music that’s daring itself to not exist. Wither and waste music, I have zero idea as to why anybody would choose to make or listen to music in the Twee genre, it seems antithetical to everything I go to music for.
Ok, album gets tiring after a while though.
Tweeee
Pleasant, quirky, doesn't really get my blood moving. This band has always basically gone in one ear and out the other.
I generally like their sound. People call this twee but listen to the lyrics.
It's fine, I can appreciate Belle & Sebastian but just doesn't do anything for me. I liked the electronic song though.
Another chill album that I enjoyed listening to.
No es mi estilo
They're like milquetoast less-interesting proto-Decemberists. Best track: Expectations
not my gig
I personally found it to be good, but not great. I understand that the style shows different aspects of music along the album. It just wasn’t my favorite, nothing spoke out to me
It's alright. That 60's pop sounds doesn't really entice me.
The State I Am in - 1 star Expectations - 2.5 stars She's Losing It - 3 stars You're Just a Baby - 2 stars Electronic Renaissance - 1 star I Could Be Dreaming - 2.5 stars We Rule the School - 1 star My Wandering Days Are Over - 1 star I Don't Love Anyone - 4 stars Mary Jo - 1 star
Just not for me I'm afraid
An enjoyable listen, it's pretty much twee indie which I unashamedly really enjoy. If "If You're Feeling Sinister" had not been so fresh in my mind (it was my album 2 days ago) this would have potentially gotten 4/5 but I definitely preferred their other album.
I thought I'd like this more, I'm just not that into the chamber pop-y style of having strings in nearly every song. Also, the vocals were pretty low in the mix for most of the songs which made it especially hard to hear the songs while driving. I've heard The State I'm In a lot and I really love that song, but most of the rest of the album didn't really jump out at first blush. Standouts: The State I'm In, Electronic Renaissance, I Could Be Dreaming
It’s alright, but forgettable. May need a few more listens, but I can’t promise I’m up for it.
A bit boring
Quite nice, starts out a bit slow, but ends on a high note, Mary Jo is a beautiful song.
Aw, Belle And Sebastian... I've always really *wanted* to like this band. Badly. On paper, it's as if I should be charmed by their timeless, unobtrusive style and witty one-liners. But the truth is, I get bored pretty quickly when I try listening to their albums. All those airy vocal lines and happy-go-lucky trumpet parts sound a little too hackneyed and/or naive to my ears. Maybe the fault lies with me, I don't know... That said, I still feel like if really you had to select one or even two important records from this band, *The Boy With The Arab Strap* or *If You're Feeling Sinister* should come first. My overall boredom is less noticeable when I try listening to those LPs. So, it's gonna be "no" for *"Tigermilk"*. Number of albums left to review: 711 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 145 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 70 Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more important): 80 (including this one)
Pleasant to listen to but probably won't listen again
ok
👏🏼👏🏼
Not bad
Some redeeming moments
Twenty-seven year old me thought he was the shit pulling out a Belle and Sebastian CD in the middle of Nebraska, thinking it would impress the locals. It wasn't this particular Belle and Sebastian CD, but it bored the affable Nebraskans to tears. I'd thumb my nose at them, believing I was above it all and ahead of the game in terms of finding the next big musical act. Twenty-seven year old me was an idiot. This shit is fine but maybe not fine enough to crack any all time list. Especially not this Belle and Sebastian album.
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
Una banda encara buscant-se a si mateixa. El germen del que hauria de ser ja hi és, amb la delicada veu i melodies i arranjaments tan exquisits. Però encara són lluny del que aconseguirien poc després. El salt de qualitat del seu següent 'If You're Feeling Sinister' és eloqüent. Curiós que aquest primer treball surti a la llista, quan el millorarien, amb escreix, en els següents discos que haurien d'aparèixer als següents anys
Ah, another Belle & Sebastian album. This one lacks all the associated memories compared to the other one we reviewed. So good, catchy, but not great for me personally
Listening to this album is like raking leaves and doing yard work I don't mind doing.
See "If You're Feeling Sinister" review (#386).
Electronic Resistance seemed out of place at first but I was pleasantly surprised by the departure from jangly pop into jangly electronica.
This is a solid album I wouldn’t mind hearing again. The song styles are a bit all over the place, which is understandable being that this is B&S’s debut. More songs like Electronic Renaissance, no surprise my favorite track by far, would push this album to a higher rating.
Not really my thing but I can see the appeal
I think maybe Belle and Sebastian are destined to be one of those indie bands that never quite do it for me (someone who likes a lot of indie bands). I sort of get it - thoughtful, sympathetic lyrics and ‘nice’ inoffensive music. It reminded me a bit of that Lloyd Cole album that came up recently, and, like that album, sometimes it works. But other times it’s too twee for my tastes. Expectations was the definite highlight. 2.5
I'm so very lost on how to rate this... I can appreciate the nice sounds and relaxing vocals and I'm sure if I dug a bit deeper there must be artistry to be discovered in this album, I really do believe the people who write that. I just haven't found it myself and I've just found this album quite flat. It's a debut album and there's not enough punch or interest to grab me. Very nice to listen to though while painting. Apart from the track You're a Baby which I either missed the point completely and just didn't get the joke or it's just quite rude.
I've never been a B&S fan to be honest, but I enjoyed this more than I expect to. I doubt I'd listen again - I wasn't moved
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.
Surprisingly nice album…
Favourite track(s): Expectations; She's Losing It Maybe it is because I have listened to this album playing in the background for several times by now. But the tracks are unexpectedly catchy, the instrumentals being not too up front but still interesting (brass here, synth and e-piano there) and the vocals easy to sing along with. Electronic Renaissance is a bit of a letdown (a bit style over substance). The tracks in the back half are a bit monotonous. Mary Jo is a good closing track at least.
I don't know. On paper, Belle & Sebastian should be my jam. But the whole thing is just way too... sweet? In lack of a better word. It's nice with some sweetness as a palet cleanser after Throbbing Gristle, but a whole menu of this? It becomes way too much.
I don’t particularly care for Murdoch’s vocal or songwriting. I also think the instrumentation is rather bland - especially considering the fact that Belle & Sebastian have strings and horns. There are a couple of fine tunes on Tigermilk. But other than there’s nothing truly memorable on this record.
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.
Relaxing indie/folk/pop
😑
Really loved this album in late highschool/early university. 4 stars
Their music has never made me want to binge because it’s milquetoast. But I can listen to a few songs before getting antsy.
Goofy ahh
Love this album. Instant 5!
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.
A twee masterpiece from one of Scotland's more supreme bands. They don't come fully formed these days, an aesthetic that is assured and automatically iconic from the moment eyes were lain on them. Of course, Belle & Sebastian's music is the focal point (and always will be, they would get better and better) and they provide taut and sophisticated songs that would form the backbone of a influential indie scene.
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!
muy bonito🥺💘 7.5/10
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.
It’s interesting but nothing I’d listen to.
I like this album. I hadn't heard of the band or any of their music before this. Nice sound. Strikes a good balance between styles. Very well done.
Early alt indie. Cool!
Wonderful first album, a early sign the bad would shift gears later on. Never given the attention the 3 albums that came out after this do. Poppy and catchy
Pretty nice sounds. Didn't really wow me, but didn't annoy me either. Comfortable 90s indie rock.
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
It's like the most inoffensive tunes conjuring a strange suburban 70/80's world from my childhood with disturbing lyrics with often uncomfortable imagery and unbearable sadness. I've tried getting into these guys before but it's true their songs end up sounding very samey and bland. Maybe it's the lyrics that saves them? It hit me this morning in the right way in tune with my mood so maybe the breakthrough has been made? The state that I am in.
Very British, very twee in the best way. High school drama lyrics with bouncy music.
C'est comme avec les tâches ménagères, je me suis laissé depasser
on tourne un peu en rond mais mimi
Pretty good
Me gustaron varias cosas, super suave. Me descolocó lo de la electrónica
nope
Echt een hekel zoals Arjan heb ik hier niet aan, maar het is wel een suf clubje, dat dan wel!
Ik weet niet waarom ik zo'n aversie heb tegen Belle and Sebastian, maar keer op keer drijven ze me tot waanzin. Dat slome lijzige lamme gemekker. Bah.
Hoe zouteloos wil je het hebben? Ik word hier boos van. Nog twee sterren omdat het me gelukt is het album uit te zitten.
3.5. It's very listenable. Standouts: The State I Am In, Electronic Renaissance, I Could Be Dreaming, My Wandering Days Are Over.
Belle and Sebastian’s first album was the result of being chosen to produce by a music business class at Stow College in Glasgow. Written in the wake of Stuart Murdoch’s chronic fatigue syndrome onset, the songs are focused on the stories of ‘normal people’ told in a very personal and incisive way. The music itself is deceptively simple, but is incredibly layered.
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.
Pretty good, but a bit dull. May have just been I wasn't in the mood for it though. Sounded quite like Nick Drake
Just can't get into B&S
Ofboðslega falleg plata. Takk fyrir mig !
Inoffensive but boring
Can’t really remember any of it.
All very ‘nice’. Pleasant arrangements and vocals but I won’t listen again.
Grew on me
A very calm and relaxing album. Love the singers voice. Clearly defines the tropes the future projects in this genre would follow. Loved the state im in and electronic renaissance. Thought Mary jo was a great finisher for the album.
I don't have much to say but I did enjoy most of the songs. Very indie movie soundtrack.
Digging it!
Fun as background music
Fun album. Not necessarily my genre but I recognize some decent song writing in here.
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.
Smooth but vanilla pop music that leans toward folk. I liked “You’re just a baby” best — it verges on rock.
This was a cute little album, but not one I think is essential to listen to. The other Belle and Sebastian album we heard was better. Again this choice shows the biases of the list makers.
The state I am in- alright Expectations- very good instrumental, lyrics bit on the nose but tell a good story👍 She's losing it- jaunty song about (political?) lesbians You're just a baby- bit creepy tbh, but nice and upbeat Electronic renaissance - love the vibe of the song interesting vocal effects👍 I could be dreaming- pretty groovy and v interesting👍 We rule the school - meh, pretty uninteresting My wandering days are over - nice chorus and lyrics👍 I don't love anyone-bit boring and repetitive Mary Jo - bit too real lol, V good👍 All in all a well put together album especially considering circumstances. This is definitely more my typical type of Music 3/5
not all songs as good very fun otherwise
Not keen.
You can kind of tell what kind of music this is going to be just based off of the cover art. Pretty soft poppish music that you'd hear in coffee shops. Just interesting enough to be likable but nothing unique enough to stand out or remember. 3/5 for me
I mean just awful man. Not my type… insufferably boring sound
Heard it before?: No Enjoy it?: I did, it had a lot of nicely blended things in the strong points for this album which for me is the start till the middle Favourite song: Track 2 - Expectations
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.
Belle and Sebastian is a band I should love, yet... I just don't care for them. I've tried to listen to their music and it just don't vibe. I like adjacent bands like Camera Obscura or The New Pornographers but B&S just don't vibe with me. Also they totally ripped off Queen for Funny Little Frog and I never seen this mentioned anywhere. 2.5/5
okay? i guess?
pleasant
I have it on vinyl (not the legendary first pressing) and I credit it with my obsession with cute, twee indie. Falling somewhere between Simon and Garfunkel, Pulp and the roster of Sarah records, the lovely meandering chord patterns, sensitive but hilarious lyrics and surprising instrumentation make for a brilliant album. I carved the lyrics to 'We Rule the School' on a desk during my GCSEs, and mumbled a 'Thank you your songs mean everything to me' at Stuart Murdoch at my first Glastonbury. Basically, this one is rigged - Expectations, She's Losing It, We Rule The School and the State I Am In are four of my favourite songs ever. And I'll likely continue listening to their albums in chronological order today, at least up to Dear Catastrophe Waitress - and then stopping only because I have kids and I'm busy!!!
Quite enjoyed this, might be the album, might be because I’m at the beach on holiday…
OK folky indie album. Didn't do much for me.
Delicate indie pop. A nice listen.
Belle and Sebastian are a band that, frankly, should’ve graced my eardrums much earlier than 2022. I’m a huge Matador Records fan, and I love a lot of their contemporaries - Yo La Tengo and Stereolab for starters. They were always on my periphery, but I never really took the time to listen. I think I probably fell victim to the stereotype on this one - that they are/were exceedingly twee. Not gonna lie, they kind of are, but Tigermilk is still a fantastic record, especially if you love 60’s psych/pop filtered through the lens of 90’s indie rock. The production is great, the songs are well crafted and to the point, the instrumentation is varied and impeccably played. This is a really great record and I’m disappointed in myself for not giving Belle and Sebastian a chance before now. RIYL: Yo La Tengo’s “Fakebook”, Stereolab, The Shin’s “Oh, Inverted World”
Surfy and upbeat vibes. Good for a sunny day.
3.5 maybe. I liked something about them
Witty, worry and pop-literate. Lots of fun, with a delivery from the 'ex-choirboy who's seen some shit' school.
Thought this was a pretty meddling indie album. Came out in the 90s and it may have had influence on modern indie as it sounded similar to more recent bands. I didn’t find any specific song catchy or super enjoyable. It felt like a cohesive album of songs that were easy to pass through. 4.5/10
This could easily bump to 4 stars if listen to it enough. I liked most songs on this album
I <3 <3 <3 this album
Too twee for me
Slapped harder than flip flops when you’re running.
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
S&G vibes. Gilmore Girl vibes.
high noise floor. so far i don't know why this is a must-listen album. In fact, I'm sure this isn't on ANY list. not good.
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.
Really good, nice variety of sounds and catchy songs! Calming, even the more uptempo songs
cool album
Background music. Downtempo, a bit avant-garde.
Great folk album. Style for days. I'll have to check out more from belle and Sebastian
great lyrics but did not like the vocalist
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
The album started off strange but ended fine. They reminded me of the Velvet Underground, who they actually mention in a song. It may not have been a reference to the band the Velvet Underground but they said the name. Also the song I Don't Love Anyone sounded like I Only Wanna Be With you by Hootie & The Blowfish which prompted ne to have a day of Hootie!
B&S treats me like peanut butter. I don’t want it at first, then I have some, remember how good it is, and before I know it, I’ve downed 3-4 teaspoonfuls of it. And then I’m sick of it and don’t want it. Until the next time.
Creo que If you Are Feeling Sinister es la cima de lo que nosotros percibimos o queremos entender por Belle & Sebastian. No es que Tigermilk no lo sea, es sólo que en el segundo disco está todo perfeccionado. Este disco debut no es malo, en todo caso.
Little alt folks but enjoyable
Absolutely classic album - great melodies & lovely lyrics.
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.
Não chega a ser ruim mas Meio sem sal
Сначала альбом не понравился. Потом Expectations исправила это. Потом снова нет. А потом You're just a baby Это не шедевр и не обязательный альбом в этом списке, но свои 5 из 10 он заслужил.
One of my favourite bands But not their best albums Cover art 2/5 truly weird
Tää bändi ei oo ikinä sytyttänyt mua pahenmin vaikka miellän tän kyllä sillai ”hyväksi bändiksi”. Ei moitittavaa 3/5
Bändillä on ainakin kaks paljon parempaa levyä, mutta tämäkin ihan ok.
Kiinnostavahkoa ysäritaidepoppista. Voisi joskus nousta, mutta ensikuulemalta jätetään nyt 3/5.
This one kind of annoyed me idk why
This is fairly inoffensive, but I didn’t like it either really. Won’t be returning to any of it.
Not bad
An old favourite. Love their lyrics and simple sounding, but complex melodies. A great album.
nice
I think you have to be in the mood to enjoy this, it's not something that you can play anytime. It's good though.
it was very pretty sounding and angelic. i liked it but not too much. 😁
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.
aural meringue
Same day as Kendrick released
Sweet and kind-hearted feeling
this is totally solid but nothing hits like on if you're feeling sinister imo