This Is Just a Modern Rock Song

Released in late 1998, 'This Is Just a Modern Rock Song' serves as a bridge between the band's early cult status and their more polished later work. The EP is anchored by its title track, a sprawling 7-minute composition that famously addresses the band's 'wimpy' reputation with self-deprecating humor. Sonically, the EP leans heavily into the chamber-pop arrangements that would define their peak era, utilizing trumpet, organ, and multi-tracked harmonies to flesh out Murdoch's acoustic sketches. 'Slow Graffiti' was originally written for the film 'The Acid House', showcasing a darker, more melancholic side of the band's songwriting. The EP was well-received by critics who noted the band's increasing confidence in long-form songwriting and their ability to maintain a distinct, literate identity amidst the fading Britpop landscape. It remains a fan favorite for its high-quality B-sides which many argue rival their album tracks.