What makes Are You Listening? by Dolores O'Riordan notable?

This album marked a significant departure from O'Riordan's previous sound with The Cranberries, presenting a more introspective and mature approach. It received positive reviews, with particular praise for its emotional depth, and helped solidify her identity as a solo artist while reaching number 21 on the UK Albums Chart. Released in early 2007, 'Are You Listening?' was Dolores O'Riordan's debut solo album following her time as lead singer of The Cranberries. By this point, she was navigating a new phase in her career after the band's hiatus, allowing her to explore personal themes and a more varied musical palette independent of her earlier work.

How many songs are on Are You Listening??

Are You Listening? has 12 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Are You Listening?

Dolores O'Riordan · 2007

51 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics, showcasing O'Riordan's unique vocal style amidst rich, atmospheric instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ordinary Day — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its uplifting melody and relatable lyrics about finding joy in simplicity, establishing O'Riordan's distinct voice in her solo work.
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When We Were Young — This poignant ballad reflects on nostalgia and lost innocence, showcasing O'Riordan's emotive delivery and lyrical vulnerability that resonates throughout the album.
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Apple of My Eye — Blending folk influences with pop sensibilities, this track highlights O'Riordan's ability to craft intimate storytelling through her music, making it a standout moment.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases O'Riordan's vocal talent with varied arrangements but lacks strong cohesion across its runtime.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features mid-tempo tracks that build on O'Riordan's vocal strength, while the second half shifts to more subdued and introspective pieces.
Several songs incorporate layered instrumentation, creating a rich atmospheric sound that complements the lyrical themes of introspection and emotional struggle.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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 Ordinary Day 4:05
2 When We Were Young 3:24
3 In the Garden 4:28
4 Human Spirit 4:01
5 Loser 2:58
6 Stay With Me 4:02
7 Apple of My Eye 4:44
8 Black Widow 4:56
9 October 4:38
10 Accept Things 4:11
11 Angel Fire 5:02
12 Ecstasy 5:13

What to play next

Listen next

No Baggage

2009

Full Dolores O'Riordan discography Artists like Dolores O'Riordan

alternative rock folk rock indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata