Reviews (page 3 of 8)
On first listen pleasant but unremarkable. On second listen grew on me substantially. There's quite a bit of nuance hiding in the chill vibes.
Orton's second album has some powerful tracks, but she's obviously breaking away from the "folktronica" before she becomes "the folktronica chick". The single from the album that got major airplay in my area, "Stars All Seem to Weep," sticks out awkwardly from an otherwise solid folky album. I love me some Beth Orton, but I don't think this is her best album.
Folktronica is a genre I never knew I needed
Enjoyable songs with a very 90s vibe, enjoyed it a lot but not the best of the best.
Det är var en kul överraskning och en riktigt bra skiva, snacka om underskattad artist. Går ut riktigt starkt med Stolen car, som jag fastnade för direkt. Även Central reservation och den trip-hopiga Stars all seem to weep är riktigt bra låtar. Däremellan är det också bra, om än inte riktigt på samma nivå. Hennes röst är fantastisk.
BEST SONGS: - Sweetest Decline - Love Like Laugther
Beth Orton's *Central Reservation* (1999) is a landmark album that bridges folk, electronic, and jazz elements, establishing her as a pioneer of the "folktronica" genre. The record is both deeply personal and sonically adventurous, showcasing Orton's ability to blend introspective songwriting with innovative production. Below is an in-depth review of its lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, along with its strengths and weaknesses. ## **Lyrics** Orton’s lyrics on *Central Reservation* are poetic, confessional, and emotionally resonant. She often explores themes of love, loss, self-reflection, and resilience. Tracks like "Stolen Car" feature vivid imagery: “Your fingers like fuses / Your eyes were cinnamon,” creating a cinematic quality that draws listeners into her world. The album’s centerpiece, "Pass in Time," is a poignant meditation on mortality and familial bonds, with lines like “My mother told me just before she died / ‘Oh darling, don’t you be like me.’” These lyrics are raw and heartfelt, offering a window into Orton’s personal experiences. However, some critics have noted occasional lapses into cliché or overly simplistic metaphors. For instance, phrases like “She’s as deep as a well” on certain tracks feel less inspired compared to the album’s more evocative moments[7]. Despite this, Orton’s lyrical honesty and emotional depth largely compensate for these shortcomings. ## **Music** Musically, *Central Reservation* is an eclectic blend of folk melodies, electronic textures, and jazz influences. The album opens with "Stolen Car," a track driven by Ben Harper's electric guitar work and a nervous energy that sets the tone for the record. Songs like "Sweetest Decline" feature lush string arrangements and jazz piano by Dr. John, showcasing Orton's ability to craft richly layered compositions[3]. The album also experiments with different moods and styles. "Stars All Seem to Weep" incorporates trip-hop beats reminiscent of her earlier work on *Trailer Park*, while "Pass in Time" leans into soulful jazz with Terry Callier’s throaty vocals complementing Orton’s introspective delivery. Tracks like "Feel to Believe," a sparse acoustic ballad, highlight her vocal prowess in an intimate setting. One of the album's strengths is its diversity—each song feels distinct yet cohesive within the broader narrative. However, this eclecticism can occasionally feel disjointed. For example, the inclusion of the house-influenced remix of "Central Reservation" at the end has been criticized for feeling out of place[5]. ## **Production** The production on *Central Reservation* is meticulous and innovative. Collaborators like Victor Van Vugt (Nick Cave), Ben Watt (Everything but the Girl), and David Roback (Mazzy Star) bring their expertise to create a soundscape that feels both organic and modern. The use of reverb, layered instrumentation, and subtle electronic elements enhances the emotional weight of Orton’s songs. Tracks like "Couldn’t Cause Me Harm" feature vibraphone textures that add depth without overwhelming the folk core of the song[3]. Similarly, the title track employs open echo chambers to create a sense of spaciousness that complements Orton's reflective lyrics. However, some critics argue that certain production choices—like heavy reverb on acoustic tracks—can clash with the rawness of Orton’s voice and guitar work[5]. Additionally, at over an hour long, the album's length can feel excessive for some listeners. ## **Themes** Thematically, *Central Reservation* delves into personal growth, love’s complexities, grief, and existential musings. The title track captures a sense of longing and introspection as Orton sings about navigating life’s uncertainties: “I’m always walking down the escalator the up way.” This metaphor encapsulates her struggle against societal expectations and personal challenges. "Pass in Time" stands out as an exploration of mortality and legacy. It reflects on how grief shapes us while offering hope through lines like “The love that you have is stored in my soul.” Meanwhile, "Devil Song" uses religious imagery to grapple with inner demons and self-doubt. These themes resonate universally while remaining deeply personal to Orton’s experiences. Her ability to balance vulnerability with resilience makes the album emotionally compelling. ## **Influence** *Central Reservation* solidified Beth Orton’s place as a key figure in late-90s music. It earned her critical acclaim, including a Mercury Prize nomination and a BRIT Award for Best British Female Artist in 2000[2]. The album also helped popularize folktronica by blending traditional folk elements with modern production techniques. Its influence can be seen in artists who followed in Orton’s footsteps by merging acoustic songwriting with electronic experimentation. Musicians like Laura Marling and José González owe part of their stylistic lineage to Orton’s groundbreaking work. ## **Pros** - **Lyrical Depth:** Songs like "Pass in Time" and "Stolen Car" showcase Orton’s talent for storytelling through vivid imagery and emotional honesty. - **Musical Diversity:** The album seamlessly blends folk, jazz, trip-hop, and electronic elements. - **Strong Vocal Performances:** Orton’s voice conveys vulnerability and strength in equal measure. - **Innovative Production:** Collaborators like Ben Watt bring unique textures that elevate the songs. - **Timeless Quality:** Even decades later, the album feels fresh and relevant due to its carefully crafted soundscapes[3]. ## **Cons** - **Occasional Clichés:** Some lyrics lack the originality found in Orton’s best work[7]. - **Disjointed Moments:** The eclectic mix of styles can sometimes feel inconsistent or jarring[5]. - **Length:** At over an hour long, the album risks losing listener engagement toward the end. - **Out-of-Place Tracks:** Remixes like “The Then Again Version” disrupt the flow of an otherwise cohesive record[5]. ## **Conclusion** Beth Orton's *Central Reservation* remains a stunning achievement that balances artistic ambition with emotional authenticity. Its blend of folk traditions with modern production techniques helped define folktronica as a genre while showcasing Orton's unique voice as both a songwriter and performer. While not without its flaws—such as occasional lyrical missteps or uneven pacing—the album's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. For fans of introspective music that pushes boundaries without losing its emotional core, *Central Reservation* is essential listening. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect deeply with listeners while offering something new with each revisit—a hallmark of truly great art.
Sounds nice. Might revisit.
I know it's kind of bland and stupid. She's just kinda whining, but whatever, she's got a great voice and I actually WANTED to listen to this a second time. I don't know why, but it was pretty solid for something I've never heard before.
something i would listen to but that sean recommended for me. added a lot of songs to my liked
Fav song: Devil's Song
While it does drag on, I found her vocals on this to be incredibly serene and relaxing. The album has this dream-like quality to it that I really enjoyed.
Her voice reminds me a little of Delores from the Cranberries and I also get Norah Jones vibes from some of the slower songs. I enjoyed this album a lot.
Until now I've never heard of Beth Orton. I enjoyed her songs - they are thoughtfully constructed.
Całkiem, całkiem
Very enjoyable.
I vaguely remember the name Beth Orton. Surprised by how much I enjoyed this. The first track is outstanding. She has warm vocals similar to Bonnie Paine of Elephant Revival, and the melodies reminded me of the Cranberries compelling pop riffs. Ben Harper's slide just adds to the atmosphere of an expertly played backing track. The rest of the album is warm but lacking in standouts. I was fond of Sweetest Decline, Stars All Seem to Weep, and Live Like Laughter. Great for a chill, warm fireside vibe
This really grew on me- quite haunting. Eclectic collections of style- pop, folky acoustic, electonic and country? Maybe....
This fills me with a warmth and comfort thats only partly explained by nostalgia. I had this on CD when it came out and played it non stop, the simple folk with a slightly more modern and urban feel felt more relevant to me. I think the songs are beautifully crafted with some excellent writing, good production and it creates a beautiful atmosphere. I think it lacks a better voice for 5 stars but this was a good day.
Another album not returned to for 20 years or so. Doesn't quite have the effect it used to, but some of the old vibe is there, and her voice is great: haunting, dismissive, expressive and understated. 4 stars, not sure how much of that is nostalgia.
I’ve been listening a lot to Fellowship’s new album over the past few days (triumphant-feeling power metal). This album couldn’t really be further from that, but felt like a nice reset to get me onto a somewhat neutral listening palette. It’s no secret that I seem to have found an affinity for female fronted folk music thanks to the likes of Joni Mitchell and Carole King, and this sounded very much in the same vain, although maybe more comparable to Norah Jones. It was a very cosy album, with a lovely calming vibe throughout. I quite enjoyed it.
Very nice and pretty. Really enjoyed this one. Funny music to work out to.
Had not heard this before. Like very much. Beautiful voice.
Strong folk album - with a twist - from start to finish, only a few weaker moments.
Cool to see this one here, I've always thought Beth Orton was kind of underrated (especially with how fire Stolen Car is). This was a really good singer-songwriter album. Not necessarily groundbreaking, but all the tunes are good and I just love Beth Orton as a vocalist
This was pleasant 3.5 stars
good album, would like to listen some more.
Love this album. The first song pulled me in right away and I wanted to listen to more. Absolutely must listen to again as well as other of her albums. The music feels so familiar. Stolen Car is my favorite
Cool songwriting.
I remember buying this album when it came out.... feels like yesterday. Oh, no, wait - it was 25 years ago! Still sounds fresh and current to my ears.
I should listen to more Orton.
This album was able to evoke real emotions out of me and I like how it ended on that high note.
Charming, warm, sophisticated. This is one of her three very strong records that one played a ton for a few years early in the new millennium. Both versions of title cut are great, as are "Sweetest Decline" and "Pass In Time" and "Love Like Laughter." Her last record showed exactly what made her great but an unfortunately failing voice. Still most worth knowing.
4 is probably too generous because there is a lot of filler in this. But I do enjoy listening to it. Some pretty cool lyrical lines here and there.
A few songs are amazing! The type that you listen to and they make you want to dance with your wife (who I don't know yet). But a few are mid and the rest are forgettable. Overall though, for the sum of songs that make me feel like slow dancing, the album earned a decent review.
Peaceful, very enjoyable on a rainy Monday
Lovely voice. Never heard of this person before, but this was solid.
Excellent. Exactly what I need from this list. Showing me great music that I had not heard previously.
I enjoyed this album. He voice was great and the music was very good. I would listen to her again
Reminds me of Dido, Alanis, Natalie Merchant. Beautiful voice and good tunes.
Pleasant sounding voice. Nice to drift in and out of sleep to. And/ or a background sound. Like it a lot.
This type of album just really hits me. Love this electric folk style and then more acoustic in the second half. Beth's voice is one of my favorites to listen to and the lyrics are very strong
Love this sound. Very haunting voice
She has a very captivating voice and this is a nice, melancholic set of songs. I particularly like the strings on Sweetest Decline, and the electronic elements on Stars All Seem to Weep. The folktronica thing doesn't feel like a gimmick, it seems a pretty natural addition to the sound. Chilled out and enjoyable
Pretty good. Nice vibe.
Very good singer-songwriter music with a bit of an edge. Stolen Car is an excellent opening song.
This was great. Some parts were morose, but not in a way that dampened my listening experience. I hear great sincerity in the vocals (particularly in “feel to believe” and “devil song”). It’s possible I could get to a 5 if I spent more time with this.
Never heard of Beth - too bad. Could've been listening to her for years. Nice
No real amazing songs but very good all around.
Lovely little record for a Thursday
Really enjoyable listening, reminded me of a slightly less rich version of Sarah McLachlan.
7/30/24. First time hearing about Beth Orton, very good folk style music blended with some electronica. She has a great voice as well! Will revisit for sure.
Jewel vibes here. Didn’t change my world but I liked it.
Orton has a beautiful voice and this album is non-offensive, nostalgic, and heart-stringy. I’m not sure I’ll listen again, only because I’m not a big fan of folk or music with a big lyrical focus. Definite talent though and I don’t hear any reason why this album shouldn’t be on this list.
I went to see Beth Orton on a lark in the early 00s. She was promoting her album Daybreaker at the time and it ended up becoming one of my favorite albums at that time. I wish more people knew about her. Great stuff on this album, including “Stolen Car” and the title track. Two of her best.
this album is exactly what i want to sound and look like. Slugged a little bit towards the middle but overall love love love. 1.) Stolen Car 2.) Central Reservation (The Then Again Version) 3.) Stars All Seem To Weep
Mjög þægileg plata. Gamall hljómur í nútímalegum búningi.
4.0
The handful of electronic productions have dated badly but this is largely excellent. Lovely surprise!
A lovely folktronica romp.
Had a good time listening to this album. It’s solemn, heartfelt, and touching. Love her voice. Kind of reminded me of Animal Crossing music with the vibe. Quieter music. Standouts: Stolen Car, Couldn’t Cause Me Harm, Pass in Time, Central Reservation -Original Version, Stars All Seem to Weep, and Blood Red River.
First time hearing this artist, hadn’t heard of her until this. Good writer, great voice, cool Brit folk music
June 24, 2024 HL: "Sweetest Decline", *Pass in Time*, title track, "Stars All Seem To Weep", "Blood Red River" Two things are true: I haven't really listened to Beth Orton before & I have this on CD because I recognized it from the book Dr. John keeps popping up in this list in unexpected ways (this, Ladies & Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space), and I'm all for it. Also, Ben Harper on guitar?? (saw him live a while back with Charlie Musselwhite; not sure which songs have him in them [edit: "Stolen Car", "Love Like Laughter"]) Guest stars out of the way, I really like Orton's style; it's rootsy, but proceeds in a freewheeling, dreamy way. The songs themselves have a timeless quality about them, even though the downtempo/folktronica elements date the album to the 90s.
As always, I head into any album longer than 45 minutes with some amount of trepidation, especially on singer-songwriter joints. Beth Orton's beautiful voice and thoughtful writing helped me settle in right away. There are some notes of Britpop in these songs; maybe it's the use of strings, or the way she paces her melodies. Her voice reminds me of some fusion of Joni Mitchell and Alanis Morissette. I want to listen to this album while driving up north; I want to listen to it on a cabin deck looking at a lake; I want to listen to it while dusting my home and feeling some kind of way. It's lovely. Highlights: Stolen Car, Sweetest Decline, Couldn't Cause Me Harm, Pass In Time, Central Reservation (what guitar tones!), Love Like Laughter
Some nice folky music. After listening to it a few times none of the songs stood out to me, but I like folky music so it gets a bump.
Very vibey. Favourites: stolen car, couldn't cause me harm, stars all seem to weep, love like laughter. Very sonically coherent and enjoyable to listen to. 4/5
This sounds great. I love many of the songs, has a very comforting sound with some chill beats. Some songs were a little more on the boring and bland side, but I didn't really mind as they served as nice background sound while I agonized over looking for a co-op. I'm not sure whether my music taste is expanding the more I listen to these albums, but I have been more or less been really liking the recent ones. My favourite songs were Stolen Car, Sweetest Decline, Pass in Time, Stars All Seem to Weep, Feel To Believe, and Central Reservation - The Then Again Version. Very nice, high 4
It's a great album. I first became aware of her listening to a radio show called Acoustic Sunrise which was a pre-dawn show of acoustic music on WNRN (probably still happening). And this is a great commercial free radio station to stream BTW. Anyhow, her vocals are an acquired taste that I just so happen to enjoy-- because they are unusual. The title track and the one electronica style song are the real show stoppers and earned her applause. All her albums are great. Worth a deep dive.
Beth Orton sounds like what happens when you tell Delores O'Roidan of the Cranberries to make an album for Lilith Fair. After some reading, turns out Beth Orton played every iteration of Lilith Fair so that tracks. She sounds like a British Natalie Merchant...right up to Stars All Seem to Weep which definitely could have been plucked from an Everything but the Girl album. Overall, this feels like an album I should have/would have loved had I found it in 1999.
Beautiful. Peak '90s female singer-songwriter vibes, a product of it's time for sure, and I don't feel like I was ever the target audience for this recording. Still, this album is worth a repeated listen. Simple arrangements, but very pretty and well recorded. I didn't dig into the lyrics too much, but what I heard of them was also lovely. Four stars.
I had loved the track Stolen Car for a long time but didn't know much else about/by BO. Really liked the rest of it and was surprised it wasn't as 90s northwest American music as I assumed it would be (not sure why I assumed that). This is downright Americana. Dare I say Lyle Lovettish? Certainly more Sheryl Crowe than Suzaane Vega. 3.5 starts rounding up to 4.
Stolen Car is on my playlist, so 4/5. Other songs are mixed
My initial thought was her vocals sound so similar to a bunch of other lady singer/songwriters, what makes her stand out and worth listening to, but I am trying not to let that distract me from her talent as a singer and songwriter. This is another 3.5 rounding to 4 and while I appreciate the album, I don't think it's something I would choose to listen to more.
What a refreshing sound! She sounds like no one else that I can compare to. I quite enjoyed it!
Otra grata sorpresa. Me recuerda a Natalie Merchant, pero un poco más moderna. Al final me cansa un poco el disco, pero le daré un 4.
4.25
Another artist I have heard of yet had never pursued listening to one of their albums. I thought Beth Orton was more electronica than this. This is incredibly pleasant music and I recall seeing this album cover all of the time. This music is not like Norah Jones' music, but if Norah Jones was an actually interesting artist and not merely an effective sleeping tool then this is what she would sound like. Stolen Car and Central Reservation are the standouts for me. Not sure I would visit the album again, but I am glad it was on the list.
Really enjoyed this album. Every song feels melancholy and comforting at the same time. Very relaxing and reflective listen. Top tracks: Stolen Car, Central Reservation, Stars All Seem to Weep
An album I vaguely remember from the time, but wasn't able to listen to in full (because streaming wasn't a thing!), and I now wish I had! Wears her influences on her sleeve, which is no bad thing, and I can hear echoes of her in some of the singer songwriters that have followed.
Allemaal relaxte singersongwritercountry, het soort muziek dat je zondagochtend opzet bij een bakkie leut. Trekt weinig aandacht, maar mag er wezen.
I had heard Love Like Laughter in a playlist about a little life of all things, and I had already liked that song. Good vibes, good songs, will listen again next time I feel like romanticizing my life or whatever
The two leads (Central Reservation/Stolen Car) are five star tracks. The rest of the album is solid, but there are definitely a couple of album tracks. Has a sentimental value for me, too.
I really enjoyed this. I like her arrangements. I’ll listen again.
Really enjoyed the opening track, Stolen Car. So much more - brilliant Central Reservation - excellent Not a perfect album, but enough to warrant a very good 4 star
This album took me so long to review, partly because I really do not enjoy the opening three tracks. You’re not getting a whole lot a variety here and that’s the major criticism, there’s no edge to the music. However Beth’s vocals are haunting and beautiful and the background melodies are equally as well composed even if it can find itself sounding all very similar. Despite this I found myself going back to this over and over again, it’s indescribable. Yes it sounds the same and it’s not got enough edge to it, but it’s just so nice on the ears. I don’t think I’ll ever stop thinking about this album for good or bad. The most confused 4 stars I can give.
This came out of nowhere, really good album!
While I was listening to the second track on the album, I came across multiple reviews on this website that mentioned nostalgia. Now, they were probably referring to the nostalgia they felt about when this album first came out, but I still wanted to see if it could evoke that sense in me; someone who only yesterday found out this album existed. So I leaned back as far as I could in my chair, closed my eyes, let me mind wander to earlier times... And it unlocked the rest of the album for me. Now, that doesn't let this escape the fact that this album is still too damn long (CD era bloat!), but, y'know, otherwise...
Nr. 135/1001 Stolen Car 4/5 Sweetest Decline 4/5 Couldn't Cause Me Harm 3/5 So Much More 3/5 Pass In Time 3/5 Central Reservation 4/5 Stars All Seem to Weep 3/5 Love Like Laughter 4/5 Blood Red River 4/5 Devil Song 3/5 Feel to Believe 4/5 Average: 3,55 Really cool British folktronica. Liked here voice and the atmospheric instrumentation.
Just really a first rate album. Good from start to finish. There's nothing in it that is a massive hit, but it's just consistently listentoable.
Great album. Orton feels like a fragile bird. I mean, her singing brings that to mind. I would like to state for the record that 1. I have never felt Beth Orton in any way, shape or form. 2. My experience of handling fragile birds is limited to picking them up off my deck when they careen into my windows. Perhaps this album should have been called "My my, those tree reflections look tempting, let's rush headlong towards them." Great songwriting; listen if you are feeling melancholy; listen for Andrew Weatherall's masterful production, bringing electronica into folk with seemless fluidity; Ben Harper's awesome guitar solo.
Great trip hop folktronica. I especially love Beth's voice thru out.
Like Dido, but actually worth listening to
Lovely and chill
wasn't fully convinced by this album but i liked it enough for four stars. some songs were really nice. i'm sure if i listened to the lyrics more i'd enjoy it more too
i quite enjoyed this, beautiful and gentle singing. 5/5 tracks like the first one and the title track, but just a few that are a bit worse and bring it down to a 4. i will be relistening.
Pleasant, a little edgy sound like Alanis Morissette
It takes a while to accelerate but, when it does, it doesn't let up. Beth Orton props herself up as not only a worthy successor to the likes of John Martyn, Sandy Denny and Nick Drake but as a towering figure in turn of the century British "folktronica" in her own right. Central Reservations could be overflowing in regards to praise for this album but it is well deserved. Favorites: Stolen Car, Pass in Time, Central Reservation (original), Stars All Seem to Weep, Love Like Laughter, Blood Red River, Devil Song.
Gute Musik, gerne mehr.
The Stars All Seem to Weep when this album is playing. It’s So Much More than just a Pass In Time. The Sweetest Decline of notes across my eardrums was delightful and Couldn’t Cause Me Harm.
A nice singer with some thoughtful songs. It's not as complex as PJ Harvey, not as lush as Feist but also no dream pop either - but then more than that. It's an easy listen without it being easy listening. I enjoyed this rather approachable listen.
Nice voice. Relaxing music.
One of the albums that has stuck with me since I heard it the first time going through parts of this list. The melodies are reminiscent of Joni Mitchell with the atmospheric electronic elements really helping setting the mood. Cut out a few tracks, like 'Stars All Seem To Weep', and this is a 5/5 record to me.
I’d heard the name Beth Orton before but this was the first time I actually listened to her music. There are some obvious comparisons to Joni Mitchell, but Orton still manages to stand out as her own entity entirely. Everything just works and the compositions are works of art. I would probably trim a few of the songs, but Central Reservation is as close to a 5/5 record you will hear without it actually being one.
A little slow but wasn’t a bad album to listen to
I've listened to Pass in Time quite a few times since listening through this album! Quality album overall I thought. Slow, melodic, pretty, and a singer with a very pretty voice as well.
Good discovery
Great!
Great discovery
This was a delight to listen to this and much better than I guessed it would be. Not all songs are as good as others, but the album has quite a few hidden jewels.
Really chill when nice, gave me Joni Mitchell vibes
Good
4.2 - another lovely album. Loved her voice, which some might not.
This was good. A slight lull in the middle but very few imperfections. One song kinda sounded like All Saints to me, which was weird but good. 4.2/5
4/5 I like her vocal timbre and how emotive she is. Enjoyable listen.
I liked this.
Corky little bitch! Not bad.
A nice singer-songwriter album. I liked the combo of folk and electronic! Some of the songs started sounding the same after a while.
Best British Female.. siinäs kuulitte..ei siihen muuta tarvi kun rehtiä laulua lurautusta. oooo-oooo yeah yeah yeah.... ehkä yksi albumeista ikinä... ikimaailmassa.. jos olisi runoilijoitten koulunpenkillä istunut, ehkä yksi parhaimmista silloin. valitettavasti kansan koulua ilmeisesti käyty siellä pahemmin opitto...tarinankerrontaa...deep themes...incroyable... stolen car
Favourite songs: Pass In Time, Stolen Car, Blood Red River, Devil Song, Sweetest Decline, Love Like Laughter Least favourite songs: Stars All Seem to Weep 4/5
Sweet. An underrated beautiful voice and sound.
Loved this album, Pass in Time stands out for me. At first I definitely thought she gave discount Norah Jones vibes but Beth has her own unique style which really grew on me!! just what I needed, 4.2*
7/10. I liked this, she has a nice voice and the writing was great too
A really good album, with some excellent highlights. While some tracks didn't reach the heights the best tracks did, overall this was a project that I fully plan on listening to (most of it) again
This was really nice. Fav track: Stolen Car 3.5/5
nice
Cool and dusky, like a humid evening by the lake with your special person.
This felt like the 90s version of Joan Baez but even though I didn't really enjoy Joan Baez that much, I thought that this was pretty good. It was a nice mix of singer-songwriter and 90s indie that I think blended together better than I thought it would. The last track was good but overall I don't really have a song that stands out above the rest.
This was quite a surprise, a very mellow and relaxing singing voice and songs, tad bit long
Beautiful
interesting mix of folk, lounge, and electronic music. gorgeous voice, somewhere between natalie merchant and sarah mclachlan. very nice.
Yeah, great voice, nice mellow tunes. I dig it.
Another very Lilith Fair situation
Hier leben die Folk singer-songwriter der 1960er und 70er weiter durch Akustik Gitarren, melodischen Gesang und den gelegentlichen Einsatz von Streichern. Nur der seltene Einsatz einer distorted E-Gitarre, die unverkennbaren, aber auch etwas fehlplatzierten 90ies drum beats in wenigen Liedern, das stellenweise aggressivere Strumming und der überwiegend melancholische Ton verraten das Album als Kind der 1990er. Schön emotional und recht abwechslungsreich. Alles in allem ein sehr gelunges Album.
Sehr gute vibes, leider teilweise schroffe Übergänge zwischen Songs.
great album, I love her since 1999
Me gustó. La primera mitad del disco, sobre todo.
A really nice surprise. I had never heard of Beth Orton before listening to this album, but within 20 seconds i knew i was gonna like this album. At times it reminds me of Aimee Mann. Highlight is Feel to Believe. Great lyrics, great singing, really good. The only criticism of the album would be that the bonus version of Central Reservation (the Then Again Version) is probably better than any song on the album. A really great version of the song, and it made me think that an album more in the style of this remix, would be even better than the final product Feeling a Very High THREE or a VERY LOW FOUR... 4 i think
Cool smokey and catchy
4 Like Joni Mitchell but actually enjoyable
Liked it less when I realized she wasn't American
Perfect rainy album, with a hair of bloat.
A very comforting listen, a nice blend of styles and a good voice. That said, the songwriting is sort of forgettable and the record doesn't leave much in the way of a lasting impression. Nonetheless, a very pleasant background-listening album.
As good as Joni Mitchell's Blue. Definitely a more enjoyable listen. Beth Orton should have been huge.
le club des albums du matin a une nouvelle recrue☀️
This singing sounds exactly like Katie's. Sweetest Decline is a cool downbeat song. This is a very nice downbeat album, though it's something that doesn't call attention to itself. Blood Red River grabbed me. I would add this to the stable to come with.
Enjoyed this had a good rhythm throughout. She has a pretty voice but the album didn't just rely on that as it had some interesting instrumental backing her vocals. Folk but has electronics supporting it which is different but works well. Standout
first listen quirky little folksy thing
Better than much of the 90s singer songwriter music out there, but still not music I really connect with.
Pleasant music, nice voice. Would enjoy it as a party was winding down with folks sitting around quietly talking, not quite wanting to call it a night yet.
This is absolutely beautiful. I like it like I like meditation - it's so beautiful and calming and I really hope I can dedicate more time to it... but I'll probably end up going high intensity as I usually do. But would love to listen again 😁
Great vocals and great vibes!
Love Beth Orton, gonna try and see her at Glastonbury. Great album.
Pretty decent, low 4.
I came into this listening not expecting much because I am not a huge fan of folk music per se but my expectations were completely blown out of the water. I had never heard of Beth; I never had even been suggested this album. I was taken aback by how enchanting the her vocals were on this album on song like "Stolen Car", "Couldn't Cause Me Harm" and "Stars All Seem to Weep". The instrumentation on this album was excellent as well. All in all this album has no bad songs to me. My favorites were definitely the three I mentioned above as well as the title track, "Pass in Time", "Love Like Laughter" and "Feel to Believe" but as I mentioned before there are not any bad songs. I would give this albums a 9/10 or even a 9.5/10.
Pretty good, very relaxing and she has a great voice.
A truly unique singing voice. Great album to smoke a joint, grab a drink and chill
This is the first time listening to an album on this list from an artist I previously knew nothing about revealed something I really enjoyed. This is a beautiful album, I was particularly taken with Stolen Car. It feels earnest in a way most albums just aren't able to achieve.
Beautiful
A nice album, reminded me a lot of the PJ Harvey album I heard before, but with a couple less memorable tracks. I really like Stars All Seem to Weep
Great voice. No expectations, very pleasant listening. I don't know anything about her EDM roots but this made me curious for more.
A lovely album. Beth Orton sings with an emotional depth that is extremely satisfying. The arrangements are pretty spare and organic sonuding and help to keep her voice and lyrics the star of the show. There is some lovely acoustic guitar and the whole album is beautifully rendered. 4 stars
Rakastan tätä levyä. Olin unohtanut, miten paljon. Kuuntelin Beth Ortonia paljon vuosituhannen vaiheessa ja vähän myöhemmin, sittemmin siirryin kuuntelemaan enemmän Cat Poweria, joka osui mulla ikään kuin samaan tarpeeseen. Ei siis mitenkään niin, että Cat Power olisi mitenkään parempi kuin Beth Orton, lähinnä sattumaa tämä. Ehkä Beth Orton on jopa hieman parempi.
Very nice, but washed over me. Nothing to make me sit up and listen, no standout songs, just consistently nice.
Top 3 Songs: 1 - Sweetest Decline (2) 2 - Central Reservation (6) 3 - Feel to Believe (11)
My favorite of hers. She had a unique and distinctive sound in her early stuff that she went away from in her later work.
Delightful.
Bloody lovely
Preferred the upbeats tunes, but overall not bad
Reminds me of the 90’s
Otra grata sorpresa. Me recuerda a Natalie Merchant, pero un poco más moderna. Al final me cansa un poco el disco, pero le daré un 4.
I would describe Beth Orton as being the least famous person with a famous voice (at least in music). This album is fairly difficult for me to describe, but it's excellent. It's mellow and folky a lot of the time, but it surprises you sometimes as well (Stars All Seem to Weep kinda comes out of nowhere). Overall a great listen 4/5
Flott rödd, góð tónlist, skemmtileg electróníku og kassagítars blanda. Jájá.
Jazzy, folky, well composed. Feels sincere
Influential and genre defining album, but too long
Nice mellow pop.
I very much enjoyed this album. It was a great soundtrack for the Sunday morning walk with the pup.
Coffee shop singer song writers has got to be one of my favorite genders
Otra grata sorpresa. Me recuerda a Natalie Merchant, pero un poco más moderna. Al final me cansa un poco el disco, pero le daré un 4.
A wonderful album that started to lose me towards the end. At the front, however, it was a great mix of vocals, instrumentals, and production. Everything felt very understated and it allowed her voice, which is the real selling point of the album, to shine through.
Excelente voz! Vibe gostosa
I went through a big Beth Orton phase 25 years ago or so, listening to this album and the compilation album Pass in Time over and over again. Her voice is the first thing that grabbed me - there's just something so unique and emotional about it. The music and songs are also amazing. Strange that I never delved further into her catalog than those two albums, but this is a good reminder to do so. I'll be listening to Beth all day today at least. 4 stars.
This is one of those albums that I want to listen to while on my porch and watching the rain. Nice coffee and a smoke type vibes.
This is splendid. Beth Orton has a lovely voice, with just a hint of a Joni Mitchell vibe. Perusing the personnel, Orton has assembled a nice group of really talented supporting performers, including Dr. John, Benn Watt and Ben Harper. Will definitely come back to this. Fave Songs: Pass in Time, Central Reservation, Feel To Believe, Blood Red River, Sweetest Decline, Stolen Car
Radiohead snuck into a singer songwriter
Zasto folktronica tako dobro izaziva nostalgiju
Znam da će mi Sweetest Decline, Central Reservation i Love Like Laughter biti na repeatu. Tako divne melodije, melankolične, a neke ću već kao i ove koristiti za jesensku plejlistu :3
Kind of moody and dark and low key in an interesting way. Liked it more than I expected.
Up my street
schöne und warme Stimme, diese ruhigen Songs gefallen mir gut. Die Sängerin kannte ich bis jetzt nicht, aber das ist ein so ein Album, dass man in ruhigen Stunden gerne immer wieder hört.
Beautiful voice and nice, chill-out music.
De va många bra å många decent
Very pretty, in short
This is a generous 4, because although I didn’t enjoy this an awful lot on first listen, it definitely has potential to be a grower!
Beth Orton doing what Beth Orton does. Polished folk pop.
4 out of 5, but an unsteady one - from obvious gems to some mediocre proto-hipster-bullshit. But a release with Love Like Laughter, Stolen Car and Couldn't Cause Me Harm on it cannot be bad in any case.
Masterful
Wow, she's fantastic! This is a solid album. Had not heard of her or heard any of her music before. I like her style, her writing, and her voice. Great songwriting, too. She shows some real range of expression on this album. Very cool.
precursor to Olivia Rodrigo
Old friend.
Definitely a re-listen this one for the chill afternoons. Was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it. Its only 4 stars since there is some filler towards the end.
LOL. Y que hago la reseña de Soul Mining... Muy chido, me gustó bastante el bajo en Sinking Feeling, las cuerdas en Twighlight Hour y Giant es todo un viajesote. Un poco de todo, medio synth, medio dark, medio postpunk.
Very nice 90s and folk aesthetic.
Really fantastic, lovely mix of folk and electronica.
Smooth easy listening
really solid listen. enjoyable.
Folk and electronic- England
Lovely singer-songwriter album
I love this album and the following one Daybreaker. I didn't keep up with her output and for no good reason. I must try harder. Favourite Track : Couldn't cause me harm.
I didn't listen to this when it came out - I was too busy listening to Portishead. But it's very good.
Really enjoyed this album. Great voice.
Quite easy listening, sounds good for a lazy morning with a coffee. Can imagine this playing in a coffee place too. Quite like the voice of Orton.
Zeemzoet zweven zonder zorgen
Very mellow
Ik kan dit waarderen; het is tijdloos, prettig om naar te luisteren en het werd sowieso weer eens tijd voor een vrouwenstem tussen al dat mannengeweld.
Very nice indeed.
Perfect glass of wine and a bath album. Or, a comedown album back in the day.
4/5
Love it!
Ganz nett
She's got a great voice over some semi-ambient electronica/trip-hop beats. Very "lo-fi hip hop to relax/study to" vibes.
Tell you what was the bomb. This album. Beautiful voice and the production sounds really familiar, like the cranberries. Or that tune 'I can't breathe until ur ass is here with me, I can't hide.' u know on love actually soundtrack is that her, fuck?
I loved her voice, I loved the production this was very good 8,8/10
It might not be fair to Beth to say that she sounds exactly like Natalie Merchant, but...she does. There are plenty of great tracks on this record, and the standout is a song where she grieves her dead mother. Powerful stuff. Best track: Pass In Time
Not too bad actually
I really liked it. Early folktronica has a bit of nostalgia feel to it, and the songwriting itself was quite good.
1999: Stolen Car, Couldn't Cause Me Harm, Feel To Believe
I am very pleasantly surprised by this!
엄청좋음
A very familiar sound
The best songs on this album are the ones that sound nothing like the rest of it. So Stolen Car and (my favorite off of it) Stars All Seem to Weep. I especially like the trip-hop/g-funk of the latter. The rest of the album is kinda boring and forgettable, although with a lot of Joni Mitchell worship going on, but I'd just rather listen to Joni. Solid album though.
Perfectly passabel album. Not too much to hate about it, but at the same time not enough special things about it to love
Very EBTG coded
I don’t mind this but it’s too long.
Something I would have imagined you heard in a coffee shop in the late 90s/early 2000s. Easily fades into the background without being offensive. Didn't hate listening to it but can't see myself returning to it after today. 3/5
3,6/5
I thought this album was... fine? Not my type of music for sure. It wasn't bad, but also didn't have anything I'd take away or particularly enjoy from it. I hate to keep digging on music from this timeframe, but I think on average I'm more negative than positive.
It has its interesting moments, but didn't fully grab me.
This was very close to being very good in my book. I really liked the compositions, and the atmospheres, and a lot of the songwriting. I think that this actually outshines a lot in this genre (not my favorite). Personally, I just found the melodies a little to wandering usually in the choruses. Overall though I’d say I was really impressed with this heartfelt, poignant, and thoughtful release. It’s just not one that I’ll return to often. If the choruses were punchier or catchier I definitely would.
The atmosphere was great, but I just couldn’t get behind Orton’s vocals a lot of the time. There were songs where she made it work, like “Pass in Time,” but a lot of it was… “grating” is not the right word, but I can’t think of one to fit it right now.
I can see how this album would completely hit if you listened in the right mood, and completely miss if you were not in the right mood.
I wanted to like this more than I did after the first song. I just don't think the singing is all that great. If it was, this would be higher.
The good thing is that the album is coherent, sticks to the same style, and feels like one work. She's a good singer and has good sense. To my taste it felt a bit repetitive.
Enjoyable album, could have been a 4 if had been a bit shorter.
All of it is mediocre
Meh. Nice enough voice but it just all blends together & nothing stands out at all
Nice voice & very nice orchestration of nice songs. Holds together well as an album. A 3 or a 4; need to listen again.
Such a beautifully sung record with very lush guitar work I feel like this is one I’ll get into more overtime but right now I just see it as good. Some of the songs can go on for so long it can be seen as uninteresting but the songs that work really do. Fav tracks: stolen car, sweetest decline, pass in time, stars all seem to weep, and central reservations (both og and remix)
Saaie achtergrondmuziek
Stolen Car is a ripping album opener. however, the album did feel like it went on a little too long and started to sound very sameish.
Some beautiful sweet sad songs on here, but really dragged in the second half. Opening track was the best
Pleasant album that might work its way to a 4 with additional listens.
73
неплохой женский фолк
Listened to this several times over the past few years. Totally don't remember it at all. Each song is nice, but completely forgettable. 3/5
Central Reservation, 1999 auf Heavenly Records veröffentlicht, ist das dritte Album der englischen Songwriterin Beth Orton und der Moment, in dem sich ihr Folktronica-Ansatz endgültig festigt. Aufgenommen an sechs verschiedenen Orten – darunter The Church, September Sound, RAK, Olympic, Little Joey's und The Garden Shed – trägt das Album eine gewisse Rastlosigkeit in sich, die sich aber nie in Beliebigkeit auflöst. Mehrere Produzenten, darunter Ben Watt und Victor Van Vugt, formen den Klang mit, ohne dass Ortons eigene Handschrift verloren geht. Was das Album trägt, ist die Reibung zwischen akustischer Intimität und elektronischer Textur. Songs wie „Stolen Car" und „Sweetest Decline" balancieren Folk-Gitarre und Downtempo-Beats so selbstverständlich, dass man die Naht kaum hört. Der Titeltrack „Central Reservation" existiert gleich in zwei Versionen auf dem Album – eine akustische und eine elektronisch aufgeladene – und macht damit die Doppelnatur des gesamten Werks fast programmatisch sichtbar. Gerade in den ruhigeren Momenten, etwa bei „Pass in Time", zeigt sich Ortons eigentliche Stärke: eine Stimme, die Verletzlichkeit nie ausstellt, sondern einfach zulässt. Das Album verzichtet auf große Gesten und gewinnt genau dadurch an Substanz. Central Reservation bleibt ein Album, das seine Zerbrechlichkeit nicht verstecken muss, weil sie sein eigentliches Fundament ist.
If we're going based on Spotify numbers, Beth Orrin seems relatively unheard of besides the first song on here. I wonder if it was in a movie or something. It's cool that there are some niche artists on this list. This album has a lot going for it, including diverse instrumentation (vibraphones, string sections, hand percussion, Timpanis on "So Much More," etc.) and a lead singer with a beautiful voice. She's got that inflection in her voice that you hear in Celtic and English folk music. Furthermore, the album ended up having more depth than the well-made but not too unexpected 90s indie/folk rock album I initially pinned it to be. I like the 6/8(?) groove on "Pass in Time." Several songs used break beats that were very 90s but helped balance out the more folk-inspired songs. The dance track at the end was a nice touch. Strong 3
I'm surprised that this sounds very late 90s-early 00s to me, because I wouldn't have known how to describe that before listening. There's something in the vocal inflection that's of that time, which I don't like, but I do like her as a vocalist generally. It's also the very laid back, as other people are saying "beige" sound, and break beats that make it sound of that time. I hear some Radiohead influence. All of that adds to the point that it's not a very unique album. There's a lack of risk-taking or personality. On the plus side, there is variety and it's not an unpleasant listen
I like some of the trip-hop tracks. The others are a bit 90s/00s romcom movie
good
Kinda pretty, but very 90’s sounding. Not bad. Not that great either.
Decent singer/songwriter album, enjoyable listen
dosta dobar vajb te stoga dosta ugodno slušanje. sviđa mi se glas. no nije me nešto oborilo s nogu, nekako mi stremi visokoj trojci... da, dat ću na kraju trojku, no možda se koji put odlučim ovom vratiti, pa mudrije procijenim...
My genre wheelhouse and the vocals are good as is some of the instrumentation - a bit plaintive, maybe.
Stolen Car is pretty awesome, it rocks and she has such a pretty voice. The whole album has this airy quality to it, it really shows in So Much More. The soulfulness in Pass in Time.
Never heard of this lady before, she has a really lovely voice though and this was very enjoyable listen on my way to work. To bad it's a bit too long and I didn't manage to finish it. But I might do so after work, probably around 3 stars as well.
Good though same-y may require further listening to fully appreciated.
I already had this album saved in my library. That happens only for good reason. I do not remember what that reason was and spinning this one I do not hear one now. I mean, I don’t hate it. And there’s plenty of assocs & collabs that support that decision, whenever it occurred. It’s a particular mood perhaps & I just wasn’t there yesterday. 3 stars
I can appreciate the talent that went into this but I think this is an instance of an album that is well made but just not appealing to me for whatever reason. If I had listened to this after a relative died it probably would've made me cry.
Erfrüschend und was neus Aber halt au z wenig guet zum mich us de söcke z haue 3
7/10 – Good
Love all the little sonic details sprinkled throughout. Also such a killer opening track
This is definitely a stronger album in the first half, but it's still pretty solid throughout, it's just that the songs near the end got a bit too slow for my liking. Still though, she's got a good and unique voice that I liked, and the instrumentals (while they could have been louder) were really engaging too, so much to the point that I didn't really care that there weren't really any big choruses in any of the songs, the melodies were just consistent and fun to vibe along to. 3.5/5
Some standout songs and some scratchy songs. The everything but the girl production is excellent on some tracks and are dying for a ambient dnb remix 3/5 1 star = poor 2 stars = average 3 stars = good 4 stars = excellent 5 stars = perfect
Little bit of Ricky Lee Jones with a light dash of cranberries. Maybe some inspiration for Nora Jones?
I thought this was brand new to me but apparently I have liked Stolen Car before on Spotify so I suppose I must have heard it at some point. The whole album will be new and I don't remember Stolen Car off the top of my head so it might as well be new. It is pretty generic. Goes the same direction as a bunch of other adult contemporary stuff from the time - Sarah McLachlan, Jewel, kd lang, maybe Paula Cole. But not as well done as any of those. And not as unique either. It's fine. Nothing to sway you one way or the other. 2.5/5
A bowl of “yep, that’s mostly kinda ok”
3.49 sterne
This is not unenjoyable and Orton’s use of producers is a very comfy fit (an entire project with Ben Watt would’ve been a treat). Alas, as much as I enjoy her voice and contributions to the Chemical Brothers, I never gravitated towards this material.
gostei bastante da vibde do album, da mistura de generos. realmente me pegou. talevz eu venha revisitar nota 6,5
This record was okay. This has a mix of boring and interesting sounds. Favourite Track(s): Feel to Believe Least Favourite Track(s): Devil Song, So Much Move, Stars All Seem to Weep
I liked the album at first. A powerful voice. Overall, the album would have benefited from being a little shorter. It got a bit annoying toward the end. 3/5
It’s good
Yep, haven’t listened for years and it’s still the same. A belting opening song, and then it’s all nice but not that exciting from then on.
Favourite Songs: Stars All Seem To Weep Central Reservation
Stolen Car is a fantastic track and her best by far. Ben Harper’s slide guitar takes it to the next level. The rest of the album—which I own—needs more of a pulse and less musical monotony. But she’s great and this album is pretty good. The more you listen, the more you discover.
Sounded weirdly familiar
Not bad but very forgettable
Not my thing but easy to listen to.
this is a tricky one. her voice is great and what i picked up of the lyrics is good but the instrumentals are very hit or miss for me. i'm less into the "folk" ones generally, but the tracks where she leans harder to the "tronica" side fuck hard. as such, "stars all seem to weep" stands miles above the rest of the album to me with that borderline trip-hop backing. "central reservation (the then again version)" is good too, even it does have an intensely 90s feel to it. it's not that the rest is necessarily bad, like, i enjoyed "stolen car" and "central reservation (original version)" well enough. but the more electronic focused tracks are just hitting so much harder for me. i know i keep saying albums could be a 4 with more listens but with this one especially i really do feel like just one more particularly well-timed listen of this could get it there. but for now...... its another 3.
She has a nice voice and it makes for a pleasant listen. But in a few weeks I will have forgotten this album exists
inconsistent singing, suspect enunciation, okay arrangements, mostly nothing much
No opinion. Not great, but not bad either.
I like her singing voice. And her haircut
Thought the fist two songs were gorgeous, and then the rest were increasingly samey. She has a killer voice tho!
A pleasant album but nothing special.
Verrrry 90s.
I wasnt familiar with Beth Orton going into this album. I enjoyed it- she has a great voice and her songs have a lot of emotion. Overall- 3.5/5
15/06/2026 An average album....a solid 3 on the average scale. Spotify listeners: 261.8k
Bastante decente.
War erst begeistert und vermutete eine Neuentdeckung, hat mich dann aber so im dritten Viertel gelangweilt. Werde aber mal andere Alben von ihr ausprobieren.