Alannah Myles cover

Alannah Myles

Alannah Myles · 1989

39 min · 10 tracks · blues

A sultry blend of blues-rock and pop, underpinned by powerful vocals and evocative storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Black Velvet — 'Black Velvet' is the album's defining track, merging rock and blues with an unforgettable chorus that explores themes of longing and nostalgia.
  • →
    Still Got This Thing — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and confident lyrics, showcasing Myles' powerful vocal delivery.
  • →
    Love Is — 'Love Is' highlights Myles' ability to weave emotional depth into a catchy melody, making it a standout ballad on the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album features strong vocals and storytelling but lacks overall cohesion and depth for repeated listens.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, with 'Black Velvet' introducing a notable shift in dynamics and intensity.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
  • The album closes with a ballad that contrasts sharply with the preceding upbeat songs, creating a sense of resolution.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • captivating vocal performances
  • mid-tempo reflective moments
  • immersive listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1989, Alannah Myles' self-titled debut album marked her entry into the music scene after years of performing in Canadian clubs. The album's breakout single 'Black Velvet' propelled her to international fame, establishing her as a significant figure in the rock genre during the late '80s.
Stylistic neighbors
Pat Benatar· Bonnie Raitt· Melissa Etheridge

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Still Got This Thing 4:37
  • 2 Love Is 3:40
  • 3 Black Velvet 4:47
  • 4 Rock This Joint 4:02
  • 5 Lover of Mine 4:42
  • 6 Kick Start My Heart 3:42
  • 7 If You Want To 4:13
  • 8 Just One Kiss 3:35
  • 9 Who Loves You 3:35
  • 10 Hurry Make Love 2:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata