About this album
Where they were
By the time 'The Else' was released in 2007, They Might Be Giants had established themselves as a beloved alternative rock band with a cult following. This album came five years after their previous studio effort, 'Mink Car,' and marked a return to their signature sound after experimenting with children's music. The release also coincided with their growing reputation as innovative artists who blend humor and intelligence in their songwriting.
Why it matters
'The Else' was notable for its critical reception, earning praise from outlets like Pitchfork and The Washington Post for its inventive lyrics and catchy tunes. It reached No. 18 on the Billboard Independent Albums chart, showcasing the band's enduring appeal in the indie music scene while continuing to influence fans and new bands alike.
Essential tracks
- "I’m Impressed" — This opening track sets the tone with its catchy hooks and witty lyrics that encapsulate the band's unique charm.
- "The Shadow Government" — With its satirical take on politics, this song exemplifies the band's knack for blending humor with social commentary.
- "Bee of the Bird of the Moth" — This track showcases their experimental edge while maintaining an accessible pop sensibility, illustrating their musical versatility.
- "The Cap’m" — A playful narrative that highlights their signature storytelling style, making it a standout among their eclectic offerings.
Release Date
May 15, 2007
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 I’m Impressed 2:39
- 2 Take Out the Trash 3:14
- 3 Upside Down Frown 2:17
- 4 Climbing the Walls 3:15
- 5 Careful What You Pack 2:40
- 6 The Cap’m 3:11
- 7 With the Dark 3:17
- 8 The Shadow Government 2:37
- 9 Bee of the Bird of the Moth 3:31
- 10 Withered Hope 2:54
- 11 Contrecoup 3:11
- 12 Feign Amnesia 2:29
- 13 The Mesopotamians 2:57
Disc 2
- 1 Put Your Hand on the Computer 1:57
- 2 I’m Your Boyfriend Now 2:40
- 3 Why Did You Grow a Beard? 1:08
- 4 We Live in a Dump 1:40
- 5 Brain Problem Situation 2:55
- 6 Sketchy Galore 2:21
- 7 Microphone 2:04
- 8 Vestibule 1:58
- 9 Greasy Kid Stuff 1:40
- 10 Metal Detector (live) 3:42
- 11 Employee of the Month 1:24
- 12 Homunculus 2:15
- 13 No Plan B (live) 1:40
- 14 Morgan in the Morning ID 1:06
- 15 Kendra McCormick 0:51
- 16 Yeah, the Deranged Millionaire 1:23
- 17 My Other Phone Is a Boom Car 0:28
- 18 I Hear a New World 2:09
- 19 (She Was a) Hotel Detective in the Future 2:04
- 20 Haunted Floating Eye 1:24
- 21 Scott Bower 1:23
- 22 The Mexican Drill 1:10
- 23 Cast Your Pod to the Wind 1:25