Alma Matters cover

Alma Matters

Morrissey · 1997

12 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective blend of jangle pop and alternative rock, marked by introspective lyrics and melancholic melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Alma Matters — As the title track, it encapsulates the themes of identity and belonging that permeate the album, delivered through catchy yet poignant instrumentation.
  • →
    Heir Apparent — This track stands out for its sharp lyrical commentary on legacy and expectation, conveyed through a vibrant musical backdrop that contrasts with its serious themes.
  • →
    I Can Have Both — This song highlights Morrissey's ability to juxtapose personal desires with broader societal expectations, creating a relatable tension within its melodic structure.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

47 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Morrissey's reflective songwriting and consistent sound, though it doesn't push boundaries.

What we noticed

  • The title track opens with a jangly guitar riff that sets a reflective tone, while the subsequent tracks maintain a similar melodic style.
  • Each song features Morrissey's distinct vocal delivery, often layered with harmonies that enhance the melancholic feel.
  • The three tracks are structured around traditional verse-chorus forms, allowing for lyrical introspection to take center stage.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Alma Matters 4:48
  • 2 Heir Apparent 3:57
  • 3 I Can Have Both 4:06

What to play next

My Early Burglary Years
Listen next

My Early Burglary Years

1998
Maladjusted
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Maladjusted

1997
Full Morrissey discography Where to start with Morrissey Artists like Morrissey
alternative rock indie pop indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata