About this album

Sound: "A quirky blend of art rock and indie pop, characterized by intricate melodies and conversational lyrics."

Where they were

Released on January 1, 2012, 'Plumb' is Field Music's fourth studio album, following their acclaimed release 'Measure' in 2010. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique sound and creative approach, continuing to experiment with song structures and lyrical themes that reflect everyday life and personal introspection.

Why it matters

'Plumb' received significant critical acclaim, appearing on numerous end-of-year lists and being praised for its inventive arrangements. It showcased the band's growing reputation within the indie rock scene, further establishing their influence on contemporaries exploring similar complex songwriting.

Essential tracks

  • "Start the Day Right" — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its uplifting melody and reflective lyrics about beginning anew, encapsulating the band's knack for blending optimism with introspection.
  • "Guillotine" — 'Guillotine' stands out for its sharp lyrical commentary on societal pressures, paired with an infectious chorus that showcases Field Music's ability to tackle serious themes while maintaining a catchy pop sensibility.
  • "(I Keep Thinking About) A New Thing" — This track highlights the band's signature complexity with layered instrumentation and a compelling narrative about change and uncertainty, making it a microcosm of the album's overarching themes.

Release Date

January 1, 2012

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Start the Day Right 2:18
  2. 2 It's Okay to Change 0:58
  3. 3 Sorry Again, Mate 2:08
  4. 4 A New Town 3:58
  5. 5 Choosing Sides 3:12
  6. 6 A Prelude to Pilgrim Street 1:48
  7. 7 Guillotine 3:12
  8. 8 Who'll Pay the Bills? 2:20
  9. 9 So Long Then 2:06
  10. 10 Is This the Picture? 2:41
  11. 11 From Hide and Seek to Heartache 2:49
  12. 12 How Many More Times? 0:40
  13. 13 Ce soir 1:13
  14. 14 Just Like Everyone Else 3:00
  15. 15 (I Keep Thinking About) A New Thing 3:16