Reviews (page 10 of 13)
yeah not bad - contains Love & Affection which is one of my favourite tracks of all time. I might give this one another go in a couple of weeks to see if more of it stands out to me. 3 stars for now though
Considered as her best songwriting.
I've heard better. I've heard worse. I'd be surprised if I heard this again.
Nice album, lovely voice and easy to listen in the background but don't think I would listen to it again.
It's alright.
Never heard of her - enjoyed this one, but nothing stuck out particularly.
I like her voice, and could almost really like this. Missing the mark by a little bit for me, but glad I listened to it.
It's nice and mellow. Some great songs. It could just be that I'm dead tired after the general election and a dour France v Portugal game yesterday, but my ears aren't exactly standing on end throughout.
Always been a fan of Joan but don't think I was ever able to go back to some of the older stuff. Nice.
3.75 This was new to me, and I liked it
Eh, not the best. Surprising Glynn Johns called this the best album he is associated with seeing how he worked with the stones, Beatles led zeppelin and the who....
Not bad.
Another mid male singer
Favorite Songs: Like Fire Love And Affection
Love and Affection stood out. I’m sad I didn’t know about her sooner.
Nice background music. Love & Affection is probably in all time to 20 songs for me. That said, probably wouldn't think to play the whole album again
3.5*. Pleasant voice enjoyed some of the music. A bit too jammy for me, though.
Easy listening
Jag gillar det jag hör. Rösten är jättebra. Överlag en trevlig och bra lyssning. Konstigt att jag inte hört om henne förr. En stark 3a.
I really enjoyed her singing voice and found it very expressive. The songs were poppy without being cheesy and folky without being boring ass folk bullshit. I could hear how influential this album obviously was on 80’s pop music and new wave. This was good and I’m glad to have heard it.
Joan showcases a signature blend of folk, rock, and jazz influences, creating a sound that's both unique and interesting. Lyrically, it's heartfelt and personal. The production is solid, but some tracks feel a bit repetitive. Overall, it's a decent listen with a few standout tracks, but it didn't really leave a lasting impression.
Was OK.
Hmm...did this sound inspire Tracy Chapman? Like her voice, the writing is good - nice listen.
This is some cool stuff. Not wildly bombastic, but there's range.
smooth
I was not familiar with Joan at all, and this is a great folk/soul record. Very singular artist and sound. Not fully for me, but nothing against that at all.
this album felt like it was all over the place. sleepy ballads, folksy blues riffs and slapped, and then it would all dismantle and start anew. it was an odd listen. i liked Joan's voice overall and she clearly has some guitar skills, i just feel like this album was a bit messy. i'll give it a three, but would want to listen to more before making a grand decision about this artist.
It was okay, but didn't really stand out to me.
still a nice change of sound but not fa me
Word
This album is a little boring to me? I've finished my first listen-through and none of the songs really stood out to me. Join The Boys and Like Fire were my favorite songs I probably wouldn't listen to any of these again. 5/10
While this album didn't initially hook me I'm super into the instrumentals and guitar pieces in the last two songs. Instrumentals were solid throughout album, singing was pleasant too, just not terribly engaging for me for the most part.
Solid album, mighy duck montage feels
sehr schön zu hören, manchmal ein klein ewnig zu jazzig
The music is nice but it also did not blow my socks off. 3/5
Not bad! Nice songs and a unique voice
Helt chill
Let’s face: Pop music is a game of pigeonholes. Maybe not so much for discerning music fans, but the whole apparatus doesn’t know what to do with a talent like Joan Armatrading. Is she a Joni Mitchell? Is she a Roberta Flack? Is she a Stevie Nicks? Armatrading makes music for adults, for mature adults, full of nuance and complexity and heartache gained through a lived experience. Her music has aged very well. I mean, the depth of her melodies and lyrics has no expiration date. For anyone who’s fallen in or out of love, “Love and Affection” is supremely relatable. “Down to Zero” is the perfect thesis statement for the songs to come on this record. Someone coming to her work for the first time must wonder where she’s been their whole listening life, waiting there in between charts and easily packaged genres. What a revelation.
She must be Tracy Chapman's mother
Not my style of music, but excellent vocals and a relatively enjoyable album to have on in the background.
Wow, I can see where Tracy Chapman was partly inspired from. Don't think the delivery quite matches Chapman here, but the sound is pretty unique and maybe a little country-ier.
okkk miss joan her voice is unique! oh..."water with the wine"./......ngl im gettinglesbovibes cool. 3.4
3.5 Really enjoyable album. Fave songs: Down to Zero, Like Fire, Tall in the Saddle
This is a nice folk rock album and a pleasant listening experience, but I don't think it has much else going for it beyond that. I'd rather listen to Joni Mitchell.
Wow, I'm immediately in love with Joan's voice. Great singer-songwriter work here, wonderful lyricism and lots of obvious passion all over this album. 3/5
Exceptionally well written lyrics. Very poetic, but with a spark also. Pleasant. 3.5/5.
Enjoyed the album.
Kind of reminded me of a Joni Mitchell album, enjoyed the acoustic style of the album.
This was nice! A high 3.
Not typically my kind of music, but I can appreciate it for what it is. She has a great voice. Really liked Join the Boys and People.
Beautiful. 3.5
Jazzy
Never heard of it but it was still good for listening to while reading
Every now and then a moment of strong emotion springs through, but otherwise this doesn't impress me.
Totally fine and totally forgettable album. A couple of the arrangements were interesting, I guess, but overall I wasn't totally engaged.
Nice voice
I had never listened to this particular album before, and it’s an interesting snapshot. Some songs are on her Greatest Hits album, others I’ve never heard in decades as a fan or as an audience member in multiple venues. She is the real deal. This isn’t her best album.
cool aber nicht so meins
War nett im Hintergrund
Album 2 of 1001 Joan Armatrading - Joan Armatrading Rating : 3 / 5
Pretty good singer songwriter album. Not something I'd listen to often, but was nice on the ears.
Pretty good middle section. "Save Me," People," and "Join the Boys" are good songs. Nothing on this album reaches any real heights.
Never heard of her, this album is good!
It's okay
Writing this review a few days after listing to this album. I vaguely remember a smooth voice and not being annoyed. Not much to go on, but I also don't feel inclined to listen to any song again... An album like an okay massage. You feel fine while exposed to it, but know you won't be coming back.
Fine. Just fine.
Man, this album sure is inconsistent. Some moments are amazing, they are original, captivating, and she really shows the power and versatility that her voice has. But there are equally as many songs that feel boring, repetitive, and generic. On the whole, it's a solid listen. But definitely not one that blew me away. I really wish I could give this a higher rating for the moments that are genuinely great, but unfortunately it's just too inconsistent. I would give it a 3.5 if I could.
Love and Affection is a brilliant track, stops this from being fine but forgettable. The funk that sneaks in towards the end is a highlight too.
Love and Affection was the definite highlight. I think this album has the sound of a grower. Not sure if one listen is enough
75/1001 🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑
Mellow and melancholic. Not bad, but nothing exceptional.
Well produced and decent songs, but it was just nothing special for me.
Pretty good. I'll have to revisit sometime.
Honestly, not bad at all. There weren’t by songs that popped out to me but quite nice nonetheless
You say there's peace in sleep But you dream of love instead Oh, the heartache you'll find
Another surprise
I only really know a couple of these songs. Particularly Water in the Wine, which I added to a compilation CD for my parents when I was a young teen, for some reason thinking it was a song they really liked. Turned out they didn't know it and it was a random call. But then it was stuck on the CD so we had to listen to it loads. Only now listening back I understand that it's about not getting too bevved and having sex with your ex or what not. I remember being a bit confused at the time what that meant, makes sense why it wasn't poignant for my parents. Fun album!
Primer acercamiento a Joan Armatrading. Me resultó una escucha divertida, con buena instrumentalización y vocales. A pesar de que el genero cantautor no suele ser lo mío, me gustó mucho la inclusión de grooves en algunas canciones (privando al LP del sonido monótono que suelen acompañar las canciones de este genero). FAVTRAXS: Down To Zero, Help Yourself, Save Me, Tall In The Saddle. LEASTFAV: Ninguno en particular.
alright
At first it didn't grab me, but I warmed up to it. I appreciate the musicianship and sincerity of the songs.
Great vocals, I can definitely see this growing on me over time
Very good. Unique voice, real good guitar and some good tunes. I wouldn’t turn her off
Surprisingly good - funky, when I was expecting sub Joni Mitchell folky stuff. Won't be likely to listen again, but can't fault most of this
Middle of the road, no big standouts but no skips either. Down to Zero was probably my favorite off the album. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Really liked it. Joan came in very strong and the album felt quick. Good singing, composition, and songwriting. It definitely blended a bit at the end. I’m surprised I’ve never heard of her before.
I started playing this album around 9am on Friday morning. By 10am I was violently ill. I proceeded to expell everything inside of me utilizing both forms of egress for the next 24 hours. Sunday morning I began to feel like myself again. What I'm trying to say is that I don't remember much of this album. Just the feeling of a tile floor on my face all weekend.
Has it’s moments
Love her voice
Beautiful acoustic guitar and some surprisingly strong electric riffs as well. Lots of funk and rock influence and subversive lyricism. Favorite tracks: Save Me, Tall in the Saddle
favourite: down to zero, save me least favourite: chill album started amazing then felt it fell off a bit mayb 7/10
A pretty chill folk rock album all things considered. Doesn't particularly standout in any specific aspect aside from solid singing on Joan's part and good guitar playing.
Nice
Had to listen to this album twice. It's good! It doesnt blow me away, but I enjoyed listening to it.
Wel nice, maar zou t denk ik niet opzetten, net te sloom ofzo
En su tercer álbum Joan Armatrading deja atrás su inicial estilo folk sesentero para potenciar su sonido folk con elementos de rock, country e incluso algo parecido a música disco. Eso sí, en él sigue destacando la capacidad vocal de Armatrading, súmamente expresiva y encantadora."Down to Zero" y "Love and Affection" son los temas más famosos del disco, pero a mi me gusta especialmente "Join the Boys" y también destacaría "Like Fire".
I feel like I’ve already listened to this album many many times on this generator. It’s not to say it’s a bad album, it’s decent, I just don’t tend to like the multitude of singer/songwriter albums on this list that much.
This album doesn't really click with me
Pleasant, soulful surprise.
Having never heard of this singer , I rather enjoyed this album. Nice 70’s folk vibe.
Pretty good
It seems like something I should like... and it's pleasant enough while it's on... but after a few listens I still can't really recall much about any of the songs. Didn't hit home for some reason.
Good, I got into it some, but totally my thing.
I didn't hate it, but I didn't want to be listening to it and am glad it's over.
Not my groove
There's some real gems in here, good musicianship and a great sounding album
Not memorable for me.
p363. 1976. 3.5 stars. Classy mid 70s Brit singer-songwriter with a fabulous voice. All that's missing are standout tracks - if everything was as good as "Love And Affection", it would be 5 stars.
Singer-Songwriter, soul, rock, mid/slow, female, great voice, groove, keys, well arranged, the sax is not my pair of shoes, album starts great but gets weaker over time
Joan Armatrading's self titled album is a pretty alright album, The first eight songs all were pretty good but the album did kinda fall apart at the last two songs with some overly loud instruments. The other songs though, were handled pretty well, and while they weren't the most interesting things in the world to listen to. They are still pretty decent and don't feel like a waste of time to listen to. Best Song: Save Me Worst Song: Tall In The Saddle
I haven’t listened to it but I probably like her later stuff better.
Another equally solid R&B album, this time with some rock and country elements. The album started really strong but dragged towards the end.
Het gaat van heerlijk funky met een vleugje country naar North Sea Jazz act die ontzettend kan genieten van hoe lekker haar eigen scheetjes wel niet ruiken. Van dat laatste krijg ik altijd wat jeuk, maar al met al zeker geen verkeerde plaat. Vooral de eerste paar nummers zijn wel lekker.
Surprised I've never heard of her before.Was a decent record though, pleasant to listen to but with enough there to stop it being boring.
Nothing stood out.
Excited to hear this one!
Melodic and chilled. Reminded me of Tracy Chapman!
Interesting.
2.75 / 5
After the first song I thought this was going to be the first "holy shit who is this???" surprise album. Turns out it didn't reach that level, but I still liked it. Dug when the electric guitar comes in on the first track and the grooves on the last. Not sure this gets to a 4* album (it's close), but I could def see myself digging into her catalogue. 3.5/5
Blind album and artist creatively fun in a way where it's just something different in some ways that scratch the itch but lacking in my preference of style especially her vocal style.
I had never listened to Frank Ocean before, I really liked this album. I can definitely hear the Stevie Wonder influence, and
Existing somewhere between folk and funk, this album is emotional, rhythmically appealing, and powerful. While I have never heard of Joan Armatrading before, I must believe that her career has had tremendous impact on musicians, women, and people of color.
Second draft for this review: Great voice with some decent (if aged) instrumentals. Wish we had gotten more tracks like those in the back half, a more uptempo vocal-centered LP is a welcome addition to a typically sluggish canon First draft for this review: Joan Arms Trading
It was alright, there were some cool moments, nothing I could say was objectively bad really. Just overall didn't connect with me.
She has a lovely, sultry voice. Passionate vocals and instrumentals, the songs and melodies sounded very personable, if that makes sense. 3.3
Id be nice if i could appreciate good music
Buena grabación pero no sintonizo demasiado.
Not for me.
I think this was my first listen to her. Didn’t love the whole album, but overall a good listen.
Enjoyable enough. Its a good album by a talented artist surrounded by great musicians. Joan Armitrading has a voice that’s just nice to listen to. But every time I hear her I feel like she’s … good. Capable. Versatile. Yet there’s never a moment that makes me get excited about her. I’d have no problem listening again if the record was playing but there’s just nothing all that compelling here.
Mellow tones. Calming at times, moving into positive energy.
Smooth easy listening. Not anything I would select on my own.
Beautiful. Slow. Too melodic for me
I've always associated Joan with singer-songwriter, which is not my favorite, but this is rockier than I expected. I am glad to have heard this album, if for no other reason than that I know people who will enjoy it.
soft spot for Joan Armatrading cos mum likes her. Comforting, familiar and playful, never rests on being predictable.
Talented but my enjoyment level was low. I've heard better songs from her that don't feature here. Not my bag.
Was quite nice listening but I can’t say anything really jumped out at me
(3.5) Solid album overall. Wasn’t really super blown away by the songwriting but I do enjoy some singer/songwriter folk material. There weren’t any tracks in particular that really caught me on a first listen, but I enjoyed the album overall and will likely revisit in the future.
I’m gonna classify this style of music as “Kumbaya Funk”. Alot of juicy bass lines topped with mostly boring acoustic guitar. That last song “Tall in the Saddle” was pretty sick tho. Why wasn’t the whole fucking album like that? I guess we’ll never know.
Wasn't bad, songs felt like movie plot transition songs. Character reflection/development.
Suddenly, I am my mother.
8.1.24 Album 3 and first song i knew. Ist fine i guess better then that stupid natinonal. if every song was love and affection 5/5. gg
Was never on my radar, but it's always good to hear something new.
A pretty good singer-songwriter album.
3.8,
some songs are hit or miss, but the musical production is excellent. the inclusion of the electric guitar sections really elevate the music. some songs have extended slow portions which lose some of the power in the singing
A nice sound and a great voice, though the singer-songwriter genre still hasn't grown into something I love. Not bad by any means, just not for me.
This was alright decent to listen to while working
Pretty chill and reasonably entertaining. 3/5
Nice background music, but doesn't grab the attention like some other albums. One big hit, but it doesn't really stand out among the rest - maybe it just caught the ear of the right person (dj, label boss, plugger) at the right time.
Proto-Tracy Chapman, it's a bit in one ear and out the other, the big single 'Love and Affection' is a nice tune though and there is a bit of variety to the songs. Will say that the album cover does go pretty hard
Decent enough. Joan’s voice is really a pleasant listen and the songs feel well written. Just a little too “not my type of music” for me to love though. 5/10
joan armatrading
Intersting and fine
Nice, a superficially easy and pleasant listen with a bit more depth on closer inspection
Well, this was quite pleasant. 3.5
I need to listen to this more.
A wonderful hidden gem I'd never otherwise have heard. Soulful, interesting instrumentation, folksy, bluesy, funky, r&b and everything in between. The dynamic range of the album in general along with the raw vocals make me miss the days of non-overproduced albums where everything needs to be "Fixed" to a fault. There's charm in warbly vocals that you just don't get today. Standout tracks: Down to Zero, Water With the Wine, Love and Affection
Black folk music. It’s basically proto Tracy Chapman.
Ihan jotenki pätevää, mut joku oli et ei suuremmin sytyttäny. Siis niinku periaatteessa hyvää ja sillai.
Hmmm interesting, know the hit single from this and have heard her do a great relaxed and warn set at Glastonbury but never really listened to her before. Very different. Kind of intriguing must listen again.
meh, okay. talented artist. some of the songs were good, but not my favorite album.
Folk
Enjoyable throughout
Pretty nice guitar work
Favorite Tracks: Down To Zero Join The Boys Somebody Who Loves You Felt like back half of the record saved this for me. There was a lull from tracks 2-5.
Ok 🤷🏻♀️
Enjoyed this one quite a bit 3.5/5
Like Tracy Chapman
nice album to listen to, love and affection brilliant, 3 all up.
Han nöd so ziit gha zum schriebe, has knapp gloset, isch no schö
I had not heard of her before, but just looking at the cover, I thought I would like it. I was right.
Fun listen
Góðar melódíur en ekkert sem lætur mig hlusta aftur
Yeah it was a good album, but like I just don’t vibe with 70s style that much and it’s very much a 70s Guitar record stand out tracks include love and affection, great song, join the boys was good. I like the guitar on this fire like it ends well with Tall in the saddle, but just overall not my thing, so three stars .
3.75
It was soothing and relaxing. Nothing to write home about in my opinion, but it was nice to listen to it while working
Not my style of music
Not really me style
First listen I don’t know any of this. Upbeat folk, ‘pop folk’ is a good description. I’m not mad on her voice but there’s some great instrumentals. Funky folk ? Lots of different musical styles in this, R&B, soul. I thought it would all be acoustic guitar which it’s not but there is some great guitar playing, amazing guitar sounds. Very well produced. Funky country ? There’s loads going on here, a great mix of songs.
I think Glyn is a bit off the mark with his praise for this one. It's fine, but it really is just fine.
Great voice, but grating after several songs.
# Joan Armatrading by Joan Armatrading 3* But on the lower end of 3 stars for me. It's just too swoony and disco-pretentious for my tastes. ## "Down to Zero" 3:51 3* Good sound, good voice. Guitars were great. ## "Help Yourself" 4:04 3* A little too disco-swoony for me, but Joan's got a great voice. ## "Water with the Wine" 2:48 3.5* I liked this better than the other songs so far (although Down to Zero might be better?). This is like a honky-tonk mixed with Disco. Interesting combination. ## "Love and Affection" 4:28 2* Not my cup of tea. Too disco-epic and I'm just not a fan of saxophone, it sounds like someone trying too hard to make a whiny sensual song and expecting applause afterward. ## "Save Me" 3:35 3.5* Has a classic sound that was copied a bit in the 90s. Eddie Vedder could have sung over this background and had a huge hit in 1992. But the vocals, while really strong, are just too swoony for me. ## "Join the Boys" 4:48 3* Fun jam. ## "People" 3:30 3* Fun jam. ## "Somebody Who Loves You" 3:33 3* Well produced. The mandolin is a nice touch. Too soft for my taste. ## "Like Fire" 5:12 3* Love the blues feel at the beginning. Not enough for me to get dancing though. ## "Tall in the Saddle" 5:43 3* Country-disco feel. Starts slow and becomes a fun jam.
She has a great voice that she restrains a lot. Rarely doesn’t get let it loose. She has a trill that reminds me of Florence Welsh at times. 6.0/10
Not a bad album but not exactly cathy either
Nice listen, some tracks are a bit "boring". solid 3.5/5
It was decent. Not necessarily groundbreaking to me but this type of music has never really been my style and to be honest I’ve always found it a bit grating. But for this one in particular I can respect the blending of genres and I appreciated the lyrics and the many stories she told. Comfortable giving it a solid 3 and saying this album is the best the conversational female singer songwriter genre has to offer
Que vibe interessante, um tipo de som que eu gosto, mas parece que falta algo pra eu curtir mesmo. Curti pra caramba a Love and Affection, sem saber que era a mais conhecida dela hauahah, essa eu adicionei. Mas sempre gosto desse violãozinho, vibe legal, mas album one-time-only, começar a chamar de OTO. “Que OTO”? “OTO álbum que nunca mais vou ouvir na vida.”
Beviel me veel beter dan ik had verwacht op basis van de beschrijving.
1. Down to Zero 8.4 2. Help Yourself 8.5 3. Water with the Wine 6.8 4. Love and Affection 7.4 5. Save Me 6.5 6. Join the Boys 7.3 7. People 6.3 8. Somebody who Loves You 7 9. Like Fire 7.1 10. Tall in the Saddle 6.8 Consistently good!! 3.5 stars.
Interessant.
Not really my tea, but I can appreciate the musicianship. I feel like I would hear this music at the end of an 80’s feel good movie.
A lovely sounding album, not the most energetic but with plenty of passion. Perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.
Great album, just not for me!
Fine I guess. Rather forgettable.
3.5. Good album just not generally kind of music - great guitar solos on a few of these! A fun listen
This was not bad. Sounds like someone Tracy Chapman may have been influenced by. Good variety here - listed as Pop on Apple Music, but there's blues, funk, folk, country. Favorite track: Water with the Wine, but also liked Tall In the Saddle.
Favorite Tracks: Down To Zero, Love And Affection, Save Me, Join The Boys, People, Somebody Who Loves You, Like Fire
This was a lot of fun and a great listen. Love the groovy baseline in People. Love the deep backing vocals in Love and Affection.
Like fire!
Boring
I saw a really good documentary about her a couple of years ago - great voice, but have to agree with the group's general opinion regarding songs. A few too many that are slightly forgettable. Glad to have listened, don't think I'll be going back. Favourite songs: Water with the Wine, Love and Affection.
Thought this was pretty good, didn't blow me away but am really glad I got to hear it. I enjoyed the jazzier, more groovy sounding songs but I didn't expect her to bust out multipe guitar solos on the album. Overall this was a pleasant surprise. Highlights: Down To Zero Love And Affection People Like Fire
Fun lyrics but not really my type.
Laid back, chill listening. Nothing disagreeable, nothing amazing. This is roots'ier than 'Drop the Pilot', but I was surprised to find that this is her 3rd studio album and I'd be happy to check out her earlier work too. A solid 3.5
I am a little confused with this album. Because on RYM, it is labeled as folk rock and singer-songwriter. And the idea of what those genres sound like together in my head isn't at all what this album is like. This album feels way more adjacent to jazz and funk music, with some soul mixed in there as well. Maybe folk rock is more of an umbrella term than I imagined it to be, but I'm not sure. Either way, if we are to go by the basis that this is some type of folk funk music, then I think the first 4 tracks do a pretty good job. Now, what I'm about to say might not make much sense, but the first 4 songs are both catchy and engaging, but also not super memorable. I don't think anything on this is super memorable. None of the melodies or lyrics got stuck in my head or stayed with me throughout the day. But that doesn't mean the songs are bad. Where the issues begin is after "Love and Affection". From track 5 to track 8, I was just kind of uninterested. None of those songs do anything to keep me engaged, and I found nothing to take away from them. And that's honestly a bummer, because the album regains its footing in the last two songs. It's too late to save the album in any major capacity, but those two songs are some of the most cool sounding ones on the record. Especially the closing track, which borders on psychedelic with its spacey guitar sound. Overall, the album is easy to listen to. If someone really loved this, I could see it as a good way to wind down after work or school. Because it doesn't throw anything too intense at you in its track list.
Easily listenable to and very calm and peaceful. Not necessarily something I would hurry back to, but I wouldn't say no if someone suggested playing it.
An early Armatrading album, where shes flexing her vocal muscles and giving a hint of her great talent. Decent, if a little flat.
Not sure if it's "Jo Ann" or "Joan" Armatrading. I've heard it pronounced Jo Ann, but it makes no difference if her name is Rose, she would still smell as sweet and carry that crazy powerful voice. First listen was pretty banal and I drifted off. But here I am listening to it again and its definitely grown on me. Sure, I'd listen to this again but I wouldn't search for it.
The British bias working out for the better for once. Like many Yanks I'd never heard of Joan Armatrading, but she has a terrific voice. I greatly preferred the bluesier songs though, some of the other tracks were a bit bland for my taste.
Oh so this is what a poppier Tracy Chapman would sound like! I guess Joan came first so technically Tracy sounds like her rather than the other way around. Either way, great voice, but without the emotional starkness of Tracy.
Chill & good!
Nice enough but slightly forgettable singer-songwriting.
I don't think I'll ever really "dislike" this kind of music, and this album isn't the exception. However, it'll take another listen for certain songs to sink in.
I liked it
Pretty solid
Not really my style of music but she has a lovely voice and this feels very reminiscent of what little gospel I've heard
Pretty cool for a folk album.
A fine album, no stand out songs but it was nice.
Yea it’s fine
Love the production on here and the way that the instruments just come into the mix and build throughout. great voice too! best tracks: down to zero, love and affection, water with the wine
Never heard of her but this was pretty decent.
the lyrics on this album are great, and the instrumentation is solid. however, the songs themselves just don't come together for me in a gripping and enduringly appealing way. i'm happy for everyone who loves this album but it's another 3.5 stars for me after about two listens. favorites: down to zero, love and affection
I wanted to like this a little more than I actually did. I don’t think anything here is bad per se, but I didn’t really connect with the musical style
this was fine, but not for me.
Heard before: no I was a passive fan of Armatrading’s 80s hits, but I never spent time with her more well-known record here. And what a treat! I was expecting an introspective folksy affair, but for the most part this is a bluesy early-70s rock record, more muscular than I thought. It fits right in with late Fairport and early Faces. I’ve always loved her voice; it’s as much a dare as a come on when she unapologetically sings “I’m not in love, but I’m open to persuasion”. She’s not broken-hearted; she's having fun while it lasts. The more I sink into the vibe, the more I like it. Great find, 1001 Albums! Top tracks: Like Fire, Tall in the Saddle, Down To Zero
She has a strong voice and the musicianship is top notch, but I can't help thinking this is kind of bland. The songs are fine, but nothing stands out to make me want to hear more. As a singer-songwriter, Armatrading was an important artist in the 70's, I just don't feel the love.
70s folk but more high energy than normal sung by a black lady
AJ: blues. folk. soul. Great voice with some cooky voice moves. She seems cool as hell.
i think joan is far more suited to the delicate, the high pitched, and more tender style of song found in 'somebody loves you' over the lower in pitch, and the more assertive found in the rest of the album, contrary perhaps (maybe insulting) to the feministic drive of the record more importantly however joan has what i did not expect which is tunes
Middle of the road album, nothing wrong with it, just not my style of music. Something I’d listen to if I just needed something on in the background
Joan Armatrading's self-titled album is a stunning debut that introduced the world to her soulful voice and songwriting brilliance. Released in 1976, it captures the essence of her unique blend of folk, blues, and rock influences. Tracks like "Love and Affection" and "Down to Zero" showcase Armatrading's emotive vocals and poetic lyrics. The album's production is stripped-down and intimate, allowing her artistry to take center stage. While some tracks may not resonate as strongly as the standouts, Joan Armatrading remains a powerful and soul-stirring release. It's a testament to her talent and originality, and an essential listen for anyone appreciating the beauty of emotive and heartfelt music. 3.5/5 rounded down
I only recalled Drop the Pilot - it's a warm 70s album and her voice is beautiful. I enjoyed it, but not sure there is enough for me to revist
It’s fine Not a lot of memorable moments besides a couple of tracks Favourite tracks: Down To Zero, Love And Affection, Join The Boys
Lovely 3.5/5
I was not familiar with her, but her voice will certainly stick with me. It’s so powerful. While her talent and the album as a whole was great, only a few individual songs really stood out to me. I can certainly see myself checking out some of her other albums.
It's alright. Hasn't aged especially well, but still important music nonetheless. Some good tracks to be found; everything else is unfortunately forgettable.
70s rock chick
Pretty chill music. Didn't love it, didn't hate it, but it is certainly unique and compelling.
Really pleasant
I didn't hate this, but also don't need to listen to it again.
I had never heard this before. Very nice.
Down to Zero was an amazing opening track. Reminded me a lot of Tracy Chapman with her low and sorrowful voice, powerful lyrics, and apt instrumentation (buoyed by solid guitar and piano). I thought I was going to fall in love with the album. But the next two songs were a bit of a letdown, the whole combination of vocals, lyrics, and instruments didn't seem to mesh for me. Her big single Love and Affection didn't do it for me at first but it grew on me (particularly the latter half of the song). So Side one was up and down, but the ups were really, really good. Side two was more even, and probably better on average, but none of them was a standout. People or Tall in the Saddle were maybe slightly ahead. It feels like 3.5 but not a 4.
Not quite a 4, but better than the other 3s I’ve rated. There isn’t one moment that jumped out at me but I liked every song. I’ll have to listen to it some more.
It aged pretty well - good music.
nice album from an often forgotten 70s talent. Probably stick to the Greatest Hits though
песни хорошие, голос не увлёк
Eh
3.5
-have never heard of this artist! was very excited to start listening -love her voice. oh my god -is that a saxophone on????? love and affection???????? -favorites: love and affection, join the boys, tall in the saddle -she has a distinctive sound and i DIG IT!!!!!! -join the boys has that EDGE that i LOVE!!! -for reference i only rate albums higher than 3 stars that have more than two songs i Really like or of i in general enjoy most or all of the album
middle of the road album
I found it boring. I feel that I may be missing appropriate context for the judgement of this album. Or maybe I’m just boring.
Interesting album by Joan Armatrading, whose name I have heard for the first time today. When I started listening to this album, all I could think of is the similarity in her voice with Joni Mitchell, but with more rock instrumental parts. Music is very well written, it easily should be much more popular then it is right now (I am assuming it's not that popular, if I have never heard of her). The album had all kind of moods, every song was very mature and enjoyable for listener. "Love and Affection" was a really good example of that, very nice deep voice chorus. It's not really my style, but a good album nonetheless.
Maybe best described as "Nico, but better." Never heard of this artist before, but I dug it. Lyrically dense and interesting. Melodies not too sparse or too complex. Standouts: Down To Zero, Water With The Wine, People, Like Fire
It was okay, would need to listen again to remember any song.
Quite a boogie: could see myself listening to this more as it had some nice beats but no stand out tracks on first listen.
Folky pop album that really draws from a ton of influences. It’s quite unique in that sense and uses a wide variety of instruments behind fairly simple songs. I particularly like the opening track with its steel guitar which came as a surprise. The rest are solid if not spectacular, a fairly good album overall.
Yet again, today we have an artist that I haven’t heard of before. I love how this project is expanding my palette and exposing me to music I hadn’t heard before. I can’t really talk about any preconceptions due to there not being any, so let’s just get into it and listen! Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Water With The Wine, Love And Affection This was quite a pleasant pop album today. Joan’s voice goes very nicely with this acoustic sound and it was a very nice listening experience. However, despite the fact that I liked each song, they also were unfortunately somewhat inmemorable. I’m writing this the day after listening, and although I recognise the track names, I can’t hum any melodies as they’ve all fallen out of my head. Overall, it was nice, but likely not one I’ll be returning to.
It was fine
some cool, catchy songs. this is one of those albums i never would have listened to if not for this site
Never heard of Joan armatrading before. Tracy Chapman sounds a lot like this vocally
Blusey nice but not that interested.
Always helpful when an album starts with a classic, gives you a good bar to assess the rest against. This one didn't maintain that standard but was very simply nice. Seems like some sort of family friendly summer party would happen with Joan performing in the backdrop: healthy amounts of progressive politics and an assortment of love ballads. Good voice. However, I just don't think this album is all that memorable. Musically it's not that distinct, it seemed like session musician central. Lyrically, all very positive but didnt have the righteous edge that might make it a more interesting listen.
I am a fan of our Joan. She puts pleasant messages on Facebook. Think her best tunes are scattered across her discography though. This is quite good, but only a few stand out tracks.
It were oreyt this ya know. Her name reminds me of checkatrade, checkatrade.com for some reason
I remember seeing her all over the Columbia Record House adverts back in the day. That’s the most interesting thing I can say about this album. Songs okay, voice is okay, but okay is about the best I can do.
Average.
I had never heard about Joan Armatrading, and her voice is lovely. I didn't enjoy the album so much since it's pretty standardized, as I expected when Wikimedia classifies it as "singer-songwriter" style. Apparently, It's pretty hard to be impressive in the singers-songwriters community, and it's easy to sound like any other in the same community, even with excellent voice work.
Generally good and really catchy (especially Water With The Wine, Love and Affection, and Tall In The Saddle). Love seeing female artists on here. Fave track(s): Down to Zero, Save Me
I'm not sure how I know Water with the Wine. They wouldn't have played it in Sudbury in '76. Maybe I spun it at CKCU. Save Me is a lovely song. I especially like the way she hits the high notes on the chorus. They say the lyrics are deeply personal but Joan says they're not about her. Hmm... The mix of acoustic guitar, funky bass and keyboards gives it a bit of a Joni Mitchell feel. I keep wanting the band to let their hair down a bit but that doesn't happen until the last track.
Liked the first song a lot, few other good ones mixed in as well. Surprised 3 stars
Groovy af, cool range in her voice, kinda small (41 min.) (73%)
I listen to all these albums without context unless I previously have context, and while I enjoyed this album, I feel like it could really benefit from being in the time and place it came from. Water with the Wine really hit a 'timeless' feel for me. Love and Affection isn't quite my jam, but it's definitely a jam.
I feel like this was a good album to just sit and relax to. It was honestly really nice to put on to wind down after work for me.
"Help Yourself" and "Tall in the Saddle" are my favorites. Overall great listen. Amazing voice. 7/10.
This was familiar and lovely
Never listened to Joan's less famous stuff before. Nice, but verging on too easy listening for me today.
Friday 24th at Shakeeb’s farm. I miss Jenna
I like her voice. The songs are not bad, but not very memorable. Favorite song: people
This was a nice surprise. Chill blend of folk and acoustic blues. Finished very strong with the last two tracks, made me wish the entire album had more of the same energy. Still great overall. 3.5 stars
“Groovy” I guess, really wish for a 2.5 score
Zvuči ko neka preteča tracy champman
Great singer, but all songs felt too much the same
on mielekästä musiikkia. albumi alkaa paremmin kuin päättyy. hyvä äänenkäyttö sekä mikstuuri akustista hipeltämistä ja funk tyyppistä rompsuttelua... tykkäsin water with wine
All the hits and more...
This had elements of something I would like, but a lot of it sounded a bit too, I don't know, generic for me? There were definitely interesting parts, but they were bogged down by stuff that was just okay. It was frustrating to hear. Some of the guitar work was nice. Her voice can do some nice things as well. I wish the piano was used a bit more on here. Regardless, I could see the appeal of this. My favourite song was Water With The Wine.
Yet another artist I've never listened to! Nice discovery, I'd listen to more More like 3.5
Good music. Nice lyrics that actually mean something. Nothing stuck out for me personally though.
good vibes
Great vocals, great vibes, but I don't think I'll ever feel the need to return to this one.
I was in a good mood when I listen to it so it help this album achieve 3 stars, but I don't think I'll ever listen to it.
It was a nice listen. I enjoyed the first half of the album more than the second. It’s a bit of folk and rock, two genres that generally appeal to me. It’s nothing special, but it wasn’t a bad listen-through. Favorite track: Help Yourself
Me gustó el instrumental, pero nada resaltó demasiado para mi
Nice groove on Join The Boys. 3.5/5
Some really great tracks, some that don't hook me - 3.5 stars
Started strong but didn't leave an impression
I think this is another Tracy Chapman situation where I'm going to need to listen to this another time or two in order to really appreciate this for what it has, but this was just a passive listen
Better than I was expecting.
Dit beviel me wel eigenlijk!
Ik vond dit een aangename verrassing.