Greetings from the Side cover

Greetings from the Side

Gary Jules

Album 1998

About this album

Sound: "Melancholic melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundscape."

Where they were

By the time 'Greetings from the Side' was released in 1998, Gary Jules had begun to carve out his niche in the alternative and pop music scene. This album followed his debut effort, which had laid the groundwork for his signature sound characterized by poignant storytelling and minimalistic arrangements. At this point in his career, Jules was still relatively under the radar but was beginning to attract attention for his unique approach.

Why it matters

This album matters as it marked an early step in Gary Jules' evolution as a songwriter, showcasing his distinct blend of melancholy and hope. Although it did not achieve major commercial success at the time, it paved the way for his later breakout single 'Mad World,' which would gain significant traction years later, influencing a variety of artists within the indie pop scene.

Essential tracks

  • "Greetings From the Side" โ€” The title track encapsulates Jules' reflective style, combining vivid imagery with a haunting melody that sets the emotional tone for the album.
  • "Invisible" โ€” 'Invisible' showcases Jules' lyrical depth, exploring themes of isolation and longing through a delicate arrangement that resonates deeply with listeners.
  • "Heroes & Heroin" โ€” This track stands out for its raw emotional honesty and storytelling prowess, delving into darker themes while maintaining a captivating melodic structure.

Release Date

August 4, 1998

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Greetings From the Side 3:50
  2. 2 St. Christopher's Lullabye 2:53
  3. 3 Barstool 4:23
  4. 4 Owen Down 3:29
  5. 5 Invisible 3:44
  6. 6 Bluefish 3:59
  7. 7 Ghosts 4:36
  8. 8 Heroes & Heroin 3:16
  9. 9 Jeremiah Weed 4:06
  10. 10 Nothing 4:01
  11. 11 Push 4:17