What makes Angel of the Night by Angela Bofill notable?

'Angel of the Night' garnered significant radio play and critical acclaim, particularly for its hit single, 'I Try,' which showcased Bofill's vocal prowess. The album solidified her status as a notable figure in the late 70s soul movement and is often credited with contributing to the evolution of contemporary R&B. Released on October 19, 1979, 'Angel of the Night' was Angela Bofill's second studio album, following her self-titled debut in 1978. At this point in her career, Bofill was establishing herself in the R&B and pop scenes, honing her signature sound that would later influence a generation of artists.

How many songs are on Angel of the Night?

Angel of the Night has 8 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Angel of the Night

Angela Bofill · 1979

38 min · 8 tracks · pop music

Smooth jazz-inflected soul intertwines with rich, emotive vocals creating an uplifting atmosphere throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Try — This track stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and Bofill's soaring vocal delivery, making it a defining moment on the album.
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People Make the World Go 'Round — Bofill's rendition of this classic infuses it with fresh emotion and perspective, reflecting her ability to reinterpret established songs.
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Angel of the Night — The title track embodies the album's themes of love and longing, featuring lush arrangements that complement Bofill's expressive singing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album features strong songwriting and production, with Bofill's vocals at the forefront, creating a cohesive listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong lead single, 'I Try', which features layered harmonies and a prominent horn section that sets a smooth jazz tone.
Each track maintains a consistent mid-tempo groove, with lush instrumentation that includes strings and soft percussion throughout.
Bofill's vocal delivery is emotive and dynamic, often employing runs and ad-libs that showcase her range without overshadowing the instrumental arrangements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

I Try

The bridge shifts to a moment of vulnerability where the singer contemplates love's complexities and personal shortcomings.

This shift from confidence to introspection adds depth to the song, highlighting Bofill's skill in navigating emotional landscapes.

Tracklist

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

1 I Try 5:40
2 People Make the World Go 'Round 4:35
3 Angel of the Night 5:04
4 Rainbow Child (Little Pas) 3:46
5 What I Wouldn't Do (For the Love of You) 3:31
6 The Feeling's Love 5:10
7 Love to Last 4:57
8 The Voyage 5:30

What to play next

Listen next

Something About You

1981

Go back to

Angie

1978

Full Angela Bofill discography Artists like Angela Bofill

soul

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata