Aqaba
June Tabor · 1988
44 min · 12 tracks
Aqaba weaves haunting melodies with evocative storytelling, showcasing June Tabor's rich vocal interpretations of traditional folk themes.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Old Man's Song — This track opens the album with a reflective tone, showcasing Tabor's emotive vocal delivery and setting the stage for the themes explored throughout.
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Verdi Cries — In this standout track, Tabor's interpretation combines operatic influences with folk elements, illustrating her versatility and unique approach to storytelling in song.
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Aqaba — The title track encapsulates the album's spirit with its vivid imagery and rich narrative, demonstrating Tabor’s ability to transport listeners through song.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Aqaba blends traditional and original folk elements with strong vocal performances, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate rich harmonies and layered vocal arrangements, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- haunting vocals for introspective moments
- evocative storytelling through melodies
- gentle pacing for reflective listening
- traditional sounds with emotional depth
- captivating narratives in quiet settings
Maybe skip if you
- seeking upbeat party atmosphere
- prefer instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time Aqaba was released in 1988, June Tabor had established herself as a prominent figure in British folk music, following her acclaimed album Angels and Cigarettes from 1987. This album marked her continued evolution as an artist, showcasing her ability to blend contemporary and traditional folk styles.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nic Jones· Kate Rusby· Sandy Denny
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Old Man's Song 3:55
- 2 Searching for Lambs 2:50
- 3 The Banks of Red Roses 3:55
- 4 Where Are You Tonight? 4:31
- 5 Aqaba 4:37
- 6 Bogie's Bonnie Belle 3:20
- 7 The Reaper 1:45
- 8 Verdi Cries 4:35
- 9 The Grazier's Daughter 4:34
- 10 Seven Summers 3:43
- 11 Mayn Rue Plats 2:51
- 12 The King of Rome 3:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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