The Cranberries – Roses (2012) | Full Album Guide, Tracklist, Credits & Trivia
Roses (2012) is the eighth studio album by Irish alternative rock band The Cranberries, marking a comeback after nearly a decade since their previous studio release, Wake Up and Smell the Coffee (2001). Produced by Stephen Street, who also worked on their early hits, the album blends classic Cranberries melodic sensibilities with mature songwriting and contemporary production.
Roses reflects on life, love, and reflection, featuring the unmistakable vocals of Dolores O’Riordan and a mix of alternative rock, pop, and soft rock influences.
Album Overview
- Artist: The Cranberries
- Album: Roses
- Release Year: 2012
- Genre: Alternative Rock / Pop Rock
- Label: Cooking Vinyl
- Producer: Stephen Street
Tracklist (Original Release)
- Tomorrow
- Show Me
- Fire and Soul
- Schizophrenic Playboys
- In It Together
- Summer Song
- Lost
- Conduct
- Waiting in Walthamstow
- Smoke and Mirrors
- Analyse
- Stars
- Linger (Re-recorded Version – Deluxe Edition)
Album Credits
- Dolores O’Riordan – Lead Vocals, Guitar
- Noel Hogan – Guitar
- Mike Hogan – Bass Guitar
- Fergal Lawler – Drums
Producer: Stephen Street
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Musical Style & Themes
Roses combines nostalgic elements of The Cranberries’ early sound with modern arrangements:
- Emotional and melodic alternative rock tracks reminiscent of No Need to Argue
- Ballads with reflective lyrics on love, life, and personal growth
- Polished production highlighting Dolores O’Riordan’s signature vocals
- Subtle orchestration and layering reminiscent of 90s classics
The album maintains a balance between classic Cranberries charm and contemporary sensibilities.
Historical Context
- Released over a decade after their last studio album, Roses was part of the band’s comeback
- Produced by Stephen Street, tying the album to the band’s early sound
- Showcases a mature and reflective band, reconnecting with longtime fans
- Served as a reminder of The Cranberries’ enduring presence in alternative rock
Fun Facts & Trivia
- The single Tomorrow received airplay on adult alternative and indie radio stations
- The album includes a re-recorded version of “Linger” as a tribute to the band’s legacy
- Stephen Street’s production emphasizes the band’s signature guitar and vocal harmonies
- Roses was promoted with a short European tour, marking the band’s return to live performances
Did You Know?
- This was The Cranberries’ last full studio album featuring Dolores O’Riordan before her passing in 2018
- The album received positive reviews for recapturing the band’s early melodic strengths
- Dolores co-wrote all songs, keeping the lyrical and emotional essence of the band intact
- Roses blends both nostalgia for longtime fans and fresh sound for new listeners.
