Art Brut is a British indie rock band that emerged in the early 2000s, known for their humorous and self-referential lyrics and raw, energetic sound. With their irreverent approach to music and the punk ethos that underpins their sound, Art Brut quickly became a favorite among fans of alternative rock and indie music.
As a celebration of the band’s legacy and influence, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best Art Brut songs of all time. From their early breakout hits to more recent releases, this list offers a comprehensive overview of the band’s discography and showcases the unique qualities that have made Art Brut such a beloved band.
Featuring songs that are both hilarious and poignant, insightful and irreverent, this list captures the essence of Art Brut’s distinct voice and showcases their knack for crafting unforgettable hooks and memorable choruses. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the band’s music, this list offers a comprehensive guide to the best of Art Brut, and a reminder of why they remain such an influential force in the indie rock scene.
1. Formed a Band
“Formed a Band” is a high-energy, punk-infused rock song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song begins with a driving guitar riff and quickly launches into frontman Eddie Argos’ charismatic vocals. With its catchy chorus and catchy melodies, “Formed a Band” is an anthem for anyone who’s ever wanted to start a band and make their mark on the music world.
The lyrics are witty and self-referential, as Argos sings about the band’s formation and their aspirations for fame and success. The song’s refrain, “formed a band, we formed a band, look at us, we formed a band,” is both celebratory and tongue-in-cheek, poking fun at the idea of starting a band simply for the sake of being in a band.
Musically, “Formed a Band” is upbeat and raucous, with driving drums and distorted guitars. The band’s energy is infectious, and the song will have you tapping your foot and singing along in no time. The guitar solo in the middle of the song is a highlight, showcasing the band’s raw talent and passion for rock music.
Overall, “Formed a Band” is a fun and lively rock song that captures the spirit of indie rock and the DIY ethos of starting a band. It’s a perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever picked up a guitar or drumsticks and dreamed of making it big in the music world.
2. My Little Brother
“My Little Brother” is a poignant and heartfelt song by American indie rock band, Art Brut. The song tells the story of lead singer Eddie Argos’ relationship with his younger brother, and the struggles they faced growing up together.
The song begins with a gentle guitar melody, and Argos’ vocals soon join in with a sense of tenderness and vulnerability. He sings about his brother’s struggles with depression and addiction, and how he always tried to be there for him, even when it was difficult. The lyrics are raw and honest, and speak to the bond between siblings and the challenges of growing up.
Musically, “My Little Brother” is a departure from Art Brut’s usual high-energy rock sound. The song is stripped back, with a focus on acoustic guitar and Argos’ vocals. The simplicity of the instrumentation allows the lyrics to shine through, and the emotional weight of the song is palpable.
Overall, “My Little Brother” is a moving tribute to the power of sibling love and the challenges of growing up. The song is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always someone who cares for us and is there to support us.
3. Emily Kane
“Emily Kane” is a nostalgic and bittersweet song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song tells the story of lead singer Eddie Argos’ teenage crush on a girl named Emily Kane, and the memories and emotions that still linger years later.
The song begins with a catchy guitar riff, and Argos’ distinctive vocals join in with a sense of yearning and longing. The lyrics are vivid and specific, describing the moments and experiences that made his crush on Emily so memorable. The chorus is simple and memorable, with the repetition of “Emily Kane, Emily Kane, Emily Kane” becoming a mantra of sorts for the song.
Musically, “Emily Kane” is upbeat and energetic, with driving drums and catchy guitar hooks. The song’s energy captures the excitement and intensity of teenage infatuation, and the nostalgia of looking back on those formative years.
Overall, “Emily Kane” is a touching and relatable song that speaks to the power of young love and the memories that stay with us over time. The song’s universality lies in its ability to capture the universal experiences of teenage crushes and the emotions that come with them, making it a beloved classic in the indie rock canon.
4. Modern Art
“Modern Art” is a satirical and irreverent song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song pokes fun at the art world and the pretensions of the artists and critics who inhabit it.
The song begins with a simple drum beat, and frontman Eddie Argos’ deadpan vocals join in with a sense of detachment and irony. The lyrics are humorous and pointed, with Argos singing about his disdain for modern art and the ridiculousness of some of the works he’s encountered. The chorus is catchy and sarcastic, with the repetition of “modern art makes me want to rock out” becoming a rallying cry of sorts for the song.
Musically, “Modern Art” is upbeat and catchy, with a driving bassline and distorted guitars. The song’s energy and humor capture the irreverence of punk rock and the DIY ethos of the indie scene.
Overall, “Modern Art” is a witty and biting critique of the art world and the often absurd nature of contemporary art. The song’s irreverence and humor make it a standout in Art Brut’s catalog and a favorite among fans of indie rock with a punk sensibility.
5. Good Weekend
“Good Weekend” is an upbeat and infectious song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song captures the excitement and energy of a weekend spent with friends, with a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs.
The song begins with a propulsive drumbeat and frontman Eddie Argos’ distinctive vocals. The lyrics are simple and relatable, with Argos singing about the joys of spending time with friends and having a good time. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with the repetition of “we’re gonna have a good weekend” becoming a rallying cry for the song.
Musically, “Good Weekend” is energetic and lively, with driving drums and infectious guitar riffs. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melodies make it a perfect anthem for anyone looking to let loose and have fun with friends.
Overall, “Good Weekend” is a fun and infectious song that captures the excitement of a night out with friends. The song’s catchy melodies and driving rhythm make it a staple of Art Brut’s live shows, and a beloved classic in the indie rock canon.
6. Direct Hit
“Direct Hit” is a fast-paced and high-energy song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song is a tribute to the power and excitement of live music, with driving guitars and propulsive drums that capture the energy of a packed concert.
The song begins with a burst of distorted guitars and frontman Eddie Argos’ urgent vocals. The lyrics are full of references to classic rock and punk bands, with Argos singing about the thrill of seeing his favorite artists perform live. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, with the repetition of “direct hit, direct hit, direct hit” becoming a rallying cry for the song.
Musically, “Direct Hit” is a powerhouse of a song, with driving guitars and pounding drums that capture the raw energy of a live show. The song’s breakneck pace and infectious melodies make it a fan favorite and a staple of Art Brut’s live performances.
Overall, “Direct Hit” is a high-octane tribute to the power of live music and the thrill of seeing your favorite bands perform. The song’s energy and intensity make it a standout in Art Brut’s catalog and a classic of the indie rock genre.
7. Nag Nag Nag Nag
“Nag Nag Nag Nag” is a frenetic and irreverent song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song is a tongue-in-cheek take on the annoyances of everyday life, with frontman Eddie Argos’ deadpan vocals and biting wit.
The song begins with a driving bassline and Argos’ sardonic lyrics. The song is full of humorous observations about the annoyances of modern life, with Argos singing about everything from noisy neighbors to annoying coworkers. The chorus is catchy and repetitive, with the repetition of “nag nag nag nag” becoming a refrain throughout the song.
Musically, “Nag Nag Nag Nag” is a propulsive and frenetic song, with a driving beat and distorted guitars. The song’s energy and humor capture the punk spirit of Art Brut’s music, and the irreverent attitude that defines their sound.
Overall, “Nag Nag Nag Nag” is a witty and biting take on the frustrations of everyday life, with Art Brut’s trademark humor and irreverence on full display. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus make it a standout in their catalog and a favorite among fans of indie rock with a punk edge.
8. St. Pauli
“St. Pauli” is a raucous and high-energy song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song is a tribute to the legendary red light district in Hamburg, Germany, and the excitement and energy of the city’s nightlife.
The song begins with a driving drumbeat and frontman Eddie Argos’ urgent vocals. The lyrics are full of references to the hedonistic pleasures of St. Pauli, with Argos singing about the bars, clubs, and wild parties that define the area. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, with the repetition of “St. Pauli, St. Pauli” becoming a rallying cry for the song.
Musically, “St. Pauli” is a high-energy and propulsive song, with driving guitars and pounding drums that capture the excitement of a night out on the town. The song’s infectious energy and catchy melodies make it a fan favorite and a staple of Art Brut’s live shows.
Overall, “St. Pauli” is a wild and exciting tribute to one of the world’s most legendary nightlife districts. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus make it a standout in Art Brut’s catalog and a beloved classic in the indie rock canon.
9. Pump Up the Volume
“Pump Up the Volume” is a high-energy and infectious song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song is a tribute to the power of music to lift our spirits and bring us together.
The song begins with a driving drumbeat and frontman Eddie Argos’ urgent vocals. The lyrics are full of references to classic rock and pop songs, with Argos singing about the emotional connection that music can create. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, with the repetition of “pump up the volume” becoming a rallying cry for the song.
Musically, “Pump Up the Volume” is a propulsive and danceable song, with a catchy bassline and driving guitars. The song’s infectious energy and uplifting message make it a fan favorite and a staple of Art Brut’s live shows.
Overall, “Pump Up the Volume” is a celebration of the transformative power of music, and the ability of a great song to lift our spirits and bring us together. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus make it a standout in Art Brut’s catalog and a beloved classic in the indie rock genre.
10. DC Comics and Chocolate Milkshake
“DC Comics and Chocolate Milkshake” is a quirky and upbeat song by British indie rock band, Art Brut. The song is a celebration of the joys of childhood and the simple pleasures that can bring us happiness.
The song begins with a bouncy and catchy guitar riff, and frontman Eddie Argos’ playful lyrics about his childhood obsessions. The song is full of references to classic comic books and sugary treats, with Argos singing about the joy of losing oneself in a good story or indulging in a sweet treat. The chorus is memorable and infectious, with the repetition of “DC Comics and chocolate milkshake” becoming a refrain throughout the song.
Musically, “DC Comics and Chocolate Milkshake” is a playful and upbeat song, with a bouncy rhythm and catchy guitar riffs. The song’s infectious energy and nostalgic lyrics make it a fan favorite and a staple of Art Brut’s live shows.
Overall, “DC Comics and Chocolate Milkshake” is a lighthearted and joyful tribute to the simple pleasures of childhood. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus make it a standout in Art Brut’s catalog and a beloved classic in the indie rock genre.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
