Saint Etienne is a British alternative dance-pop band that emerged in the early 1990s. With their blend of indie-pop, electronica, and dance music, they quickly became a beloved staple in the UK music scene. Over the years, the group has released a plethora of memorable tracks that have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. In this article, we’ll be diving into the top 10 best Saint Etienne songs of all time.
From their early days with the infectious dance-pop hit “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” to their more recent releases, Saint Etienne has consistently delivered catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics. Their music has been described as both nostalgic and forward-thinking, with a sound that draws inspiration from a range of genres. With so many great tracks to choose from, narrowing down the top 10 was no easy task. But we’ve put together a list that showcases some of the band’s most memorable moments, and we hope you’ll enjoy taking a trip down memory lane with us.
1. Hobart Paving from So Tough
“Hobart Paving” is a track from Saint Etienne’s 1993 album “So Tough.” The song features Sarah Cracknell’s ethereal vocals over a dreamy, hypnotic melody that captures the mood of a hazy summer day. The lyrics tell a story of a young woman who is searching for love and meaning in her life, while the music creates a sense of longing and nostalgia. The track’s production is a masterclass in layering different sounds and textures, with acoustic guitars, swirling synths, and a subtle, insistent beat that propels the song forward. “Hobart Paving” is a perfect example of Saint Etienne’s ability to create music that is both melancholy and uplifting, and it remains one of their most beloved tracks to this day.
2. You’re in a Bad Way from So Tough
“You’re in a Bad Way” is a song by the British indie pop band Saint Etienne, released in 1993 as a single from their second album “So Tough”. The song is a catchy, upbeat pop tune that features the signature blend of electronic and acoustic instrumentation that Saint Etienne is known for. The lyrics describe a relationship that is on the rocks, with the singer trying to convince their partner that they can work things out. The song’s melody and vocals are infectious, with lead singer Sarah Cracknell’s airy vocals providing a dreamy counterpoint to the bouncy rhythm. “You’re in a Bad Way” is a quintessential Saint Etienne track, showcasing their ability to craft intelligent, catchy pop songs with a retro sensibility. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of their live shows to this day.
3. Pale Movie from Tiger Bay
“Pale Movie” is a haunting and atmospheric track from the 1994 album “Tiger Bay” by the British indie pop band Saint Etienne. The song features a slow, mournful melody that is complemented by a sparse arrangement of piano, strings, and electronic beats. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a delicate and ethereal vocal performance that perfectly captures the song’s melancholic mood. The lyrics describe a sense of loss and nostalgia for a past that can never be recaptured. The song’s title refers to the faded memories of old movies, adding to the overall sense of wistful longing. “Pale Movie” showcases Saint Etienne’s talent for creating deeply emotional and evocative music that lingers in the listener’s mind long after the song has ended.
4. He’s On The Phone from Too Young to Die: Singles 1990–1995
“He’s On The Phone” is a 1995 single from British indie pop band Saint Etienne’s compilation album “Too Young to Die: Singles 1990-1995”. The song is a catchy, upbeat dance-pop tune that features an infectious chorus and pulsing beats. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a playful and flirtatious vocal performance that perfectly captures the song’s lighthearted tone. The lyrics describe a woman’s excitement over receiving a phone call from a man she likes, and her eagerness to make a connection with him. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a dancefloor favorite, while its clever lyrics and cheeky attitude showcase Saint Etienne’s talent for crafting intelligent, infectious pop songs. “He’s On The Phone” remains a beloved fan favorite and a testament to the enduring appeal of Saint Etienne’s music.
5. Only Love Can Break Your Heart (A Mix of Two Halves) from Casino Classics
“Only Love Can Break Your Heart (A Mix of Two Halves)” is a remix of the Neil Young classic by British indie pop band Saint Etienne. The song was featured on the band’s 1996 compilation album “Casino Classics” and is a standout track on the record. The remix takes the original song’s acoustic guitar riff and transforms it into a danceable beat, with a funky bassline and shimmering synths. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a dreamy and ethereal vocal performance that perfectly captures the song’s wistful lyrics about the pain of lost love. The remix is divided into two halves, with the first half being a slower, more melancholic version and the second half building to an ecstatic, dancefloor-ready finale. “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” is a stunning example of Saint Etienne’s ability to reinterpret classic songs in their own unique style and make them sound fresh and new.
6. Shower Scene from Finisterre
“Shower Scene” is a song from Saint Etienne’s 2002 album “Finisterre”. The track features a driving electronic beat and shimmering synths, creating a dreamy, cinematic atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s title. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a sultry and seductive vocal performance that complements the song’s sensual lyrics, which describe a steamy encounter in a shower. The lyrics also touch on themes of escape and freedom, with the shower serving as a metaphor for washing away the stresses of daily life. “Shower Scene” is a standout track on “Finisterre”, showcasing Saint Etienne’s ability to create immersive and evocative music that transports the listener to another world. The song’s lush instrumentation and hypnotic beat make it a perfect soundtrack for late-night listening or dancing.
7. Goodnight from Tales from Turnpike House
“Goodnight” is the closing track of Saint Etienne’s 2005 album “Tales from Turnpike House”. The song features a simple, yet beautiful arrangement of acoustic guitar and piano, creating a gentle, lullaby-like atmosphere. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a tender and emotional vocal performance that perfectly captures the song’s bittersweet lyrics, which describe the end of a long and eventful day. The lyrics touch on themes of love, loss, and the passing of time, painting a vivid picture of a community coming together to say goodnight. “Goodnight” is a perfect album closer, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and tranquility. The song showcases Saint Etienne’s ability to craft intimate and personal songs that resonate deeply with the listener, and is a testament to the enduring beauty of their music.
8. Like The Swallow from Foxbase Beta
“Like The Swallow” is a standout track from Saint Etienne’s 1992 debut album “Foxbase Beta”. The song features a simple, yet elegant arrangement of acoustic guitar and piano, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s melancholic lyrics. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a stunning vocal performance, capturing the heartbreak and longing expressed in the lyrics. The song is a reimagining of a traditional English folk song, showcasing Saint Etienne’s ability to fuse classic influences with their own modern sensibilities. “Like The Swallow” is a prime example of Saint Etienne’s talent for crafting intimate and emotive songs that resonate deeply with the listener. The song remains a beloved fan favorite
9. DJ from Words and Music by Saint Etienne
“DJ” is a standout track from Saint Etienne’s 2012 album “Words and Music by Saint Etienne”. The song features a driving beat and shimmering synths, creating a propulsive and danceable atmosphere that perfectly captures the excitement and energy of a night out. Lead singer Sarah Cracknell delivers a spirited and charismatic vocal performance, channeling the confidence and glamour of a legendary DJ. The lyrics touch on themes of music, nostalgia, and the power of art to transport us to other worlds. “DJ” is a testament to Saint Etienne’s ability to capture the spirit of a moment and translate it into irresistible pop music. The song remains a favorite among fans, and a perfect example of the enduring appeal of Saint Etienne’s music.
10. Cool Kids of Death (Underworld Mix) from Mondo Casino
“Cool Kids of Death” is a standout track from Saint Etienne’s 1995 remix album “Mondo Casino”. The song features a propulsive beat and swirling synths, creating a hypnotic and trance-like atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s edgy and provocative lyrics. The Underworld Mix gives the song an even more intense and electrifying energy, building to a powerful crescendo that leaves the listener breathless. The lyrics touch on themes of rebellion, youth culture, and the allure of danger, painting a vivid portrait of a generation on the brink of something new and exciting. “Cool Kids of Death” is a perfect example of Saint Etienne’s ability to combine irresistible pop hooks with a deeper and more meaningful message. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring influence of Saint Etienne’s music on the electronic music scene.