Pretty in Black cover

Pretty in Black

The Raveonettes

Album 2005

About this album

Sound: "A blend of surf rock melodies and darkly romantic lyrics wrapped in a lo-fi production aesthetic."

Where they were

Released in 2005, 'Pretty in Black' was The Raveonettes' second album, following their debut 'Chain Gang of Love' from 2003. At this point, the duo had begun to establish their unique sound within the indie rock scene, showcasing their ability to merge retro influences with modern sensibilities.

Why it matters

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative sound, earning a spot on several year-end lists and helping to solidify The Raveonettes’ position in the indie rock landscape. It charted in various countries and contributed to the resurgence of interest in garage rock and pop aesthetics during the mid-2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "Love in a Trashcan" — This track encapsulates the album's signature mix of catchy hooks and gritty themes, embodying both nostalgia and modernity.
  • "Seductress of Bums" — With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, this song highlights the band’s knack for blending humor with darker undertones.
  • "Here Comes Mary" — This track's lush harmonies and dreamy instrumentation showcase the duo's ability to evoke a sense of longing while maintaining an infectious groove.
  • "Ode to L.A." — An homage to Los Angeles, this song reflects the band's fascination with American culture, balancing cynicism with admiration through its lyrical imagery.

Release Date

May 1, 2005

Artist Origin

Denmark

Tracklist

  1. 1 The Heavens 3:55
  2. 2 Seductress of Bums 3:49
  3. 3 Love in a Trashcan 2:51
  4. 4 Sleepwalking 3:28
  5. 5 Uncertain Times 3:58
  6. 6 My Boyfriend’s Back 2:39
  7. 7 Here Comes Mary 3:02
  8. 8 Red Tan 3:48
  9. 9 Twilight 3:35
  10. 10 Somewhere in Texas 4:27
  11. 11 You Say You Lie 2:55
  12. 12 Ode to L.A. 3:17
  13. 13 If I Was Young 2:53
  14. 14 I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry 2:54
  15. 15 Everyday 4:34
  16. 16 Black Wave 4:24
  17. 17 I Wanna Be Taken 3:03