At least for now cover

At least for now

Benjamin Clementine · 2015

68 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of piano-driven melodies and Clementine's rich, emotive vocals create an atmospheric exploration of love and loss.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Winston Churchill’s Boy — This opening track sets the tone with its orchestral arrangement and poignant lyrics about identity and belonging, encapsulating the album's emotional core.
  • →
    London — In this reflective piece, Clementine contrasts personal memories with broader societal observations, creating a rich tapestry of nostalgia and critique that resonates throughout the album.
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    Nemesis — Here, Clementine's vocal delivery takes center stage, supported by minimalist instrumentation that amplifies the themes of conflict and resolution present in his work.
  • →
    The People and I — This track combines intricate piano lines with a powerful message about connection and alienation, showcasing Clementine's ability to weave personal narrative with social commentary.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases unique compositions and distinct vocal delivery, though its cohesion is somewhat affected by bonus tracks.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a slow, contemplative pace with piano and vocal harmonies before shifting to more rhythmic elements in the fourth track.
  • Clementine's vocal delivery often features dramatic shifts in dynamics, alternating between soft whispers and powerful crescendos.
  • Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as extended instrumental sections and abrupt transitions between themes.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • haunting piano melodies for reflection
  • emotive vocals that linger
  • intimate moments of vulnerability
  • late-night solitude with depth

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat party atmosphere
  • prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2015, At Least for Now is Benjamin Clementine's debut album, following his early career as a busker in Paris. This album marked his transition from underground artist to a recognized voice in alternative rock, showcasing his unique blend of classical influences and contemporary sounds.
Stylistic neighbors
FKA twigs· James Blake· Sufjan Stevens

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Winston Churchill’s Boy 5:37
  • 2 Then I Heard a Bachelor’s Cry 5:05
  • 3 London 3:58
  • 4 Adiós 4:13
  • 5 St. Clementine on Tea and Croissants (extended version) 2:33
  • 6 Nemesis 5:00
  • 7 The People and I 5:15
  • 8 Condolence 6:27
  • 9 Cornerstone 4:31
  • 10 Quiver a Little 4:38
  • 11 Gone 4:32
  • 12 The Movies Never Lie (demo version) 3:59
  • 13 Pound Sterling 4:34
  • 14 Riverman (live at BBC) 3:39
  • 15 London (live at France Inter) 4:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata