About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of jangly guitars and psychedelic melodies infused with a distinct Merseyside charm."

Where they were

Released on July 29, 2002, 'The Coral' is The Coral's self-titled debut album, arriving after the band formed in 1996 and before they achieved widespread recognition. The album's release marked the beginning of their rise in the UK indie scene, showcasing their unique sound that combines elements of rock, psychedelia, and folk.

Why it matters

The album reached number 5 on the UK Albums Chart and garnered critical acclaim for its inventive sound. It was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2002, solidifying The Coral's place within the emerging wave of British indie bands during that era.

Essential tracks

  • "Dreaming of You" — This track exemplifies The Coral's melodic sensibility with its catchy chorus and dreamy instrumentation, capturing the essence of youthful longing.
  • "Shadows Fall" — With its haunting lyrics and atmospheric arrangement, this song showcases the band's ability to create an evocative mood while maintaining a pop sensibility.
  • "Simon Diamond" — This upbeat track highlights the band's energetic style and clever lyrics, making it a standout representation of their quirky charm.
  • "Goodbye" — A poignant ballad that contrasts with the album's more frenetic tracks, revealing a deeper emotional layer in The Coral's songwriting.

Release Date

July 29, 2002

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Spanish Main 1:53
  2. 2 I Remember When 3:38
  3. 3 Shadows Fall 3:29
  4. 4 Dreaming of You 2:21
  5. 5 Simon Diamond 2:28
  6. 6 Goodbye 4:02
  7. 7 Waiting for the Heartaches 4:03
  8. 8 Skeleton Key 3:03
  9. 9 Wildfire 2:45
  10. 10 Badman 3:03
  11. 11 Calendars and Clocks / Time Travel 11:56