Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Auberge Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, weaving imagery of a tranquil retreat with Rea's signature guitar style that evokes a sense of yearning.
-
→
Gone Fishing — This song stands out for its laid-back vibe and poignant lyrics about seeking solace and escape, reflecting Rea's adeptness at storytelling.
-
→
Looking for the Summer — With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, this track blends warmth with melancholy, representing the thematic contrast found throughout the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Auberge showcases strong songwriting and smooth production, with a reflective tone that resonates well across its runtime.
What we noticed
- Many tracks feature extended instrumental sections, allowing for expressive guitar solos that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- 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
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
8/10
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
- long, immersive listening sessions
- steady, consistent energy levels
- gradual builds and payoffs
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Auberge marked a commercial resurgence and wider recognition for Chris Rea in the early '90s.
- Themes
- Mediterranean escapes· fishing for freedom· nostalgic longing
- Moods
- Introspective· Chill
- Career context
- By the time Chris Rea released Auberge in 1991, he was experiencing a commercial resurgence after his earlier hits like 'On the Beach' and 'Driving Home for Christmas.' This album followed the success of his previous record, The Road to Hell (1989), which solidified his status as a prominent figure in the UK rock scene. Auberge further established Rea's signature sound, characterized by his emotive guitar work and distinctive voice.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Mark Knopfler· John Hiatt· Joe Cocker
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
You're Not a Number
The narrative shifts to address societal expectations directly, challenging the listener to consider their individuality amidst conformity.
This direct address creates an intimate connection while critiquing broader social issues, showcasing Rea’s ability to weave personal reflection into societal commentary.
Tracklist
- 1 Auberge Start here 7:18
- 2 Gone Fishing 4:41
- 3 You’re Not a Number 5:00
- 4 Heaven 4:13
- 5 Set Me Free 6:55
- 6 Red Shoes 3:54
- 7 Sing a Song of Love to Me 3:34
- 8 Every Second Counts 5:08
- 9 Looking for the Summer 5:03
- 10 And You My Love 5:29
- 11 The Mention of Your Name 3:18
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Get Lucky
Mark Knopfler
Shares introspective storytelling and rich guitar textures, evoking a sense of longing and escape.
Bring the Family
John Hiatt
Combines bluesy melodies with personal lyrics, reflecting on relationships and life's transitions.
Hymns to the Silence
Van Morrison
Blends soulful introspection with lush instrumentation, capturing a similar yearning for freedom and nostalgia.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.