What makes Back of My Hand by Gemma Hayes notable?

Back of My Hand received critical acclaim for its songwriting and production, earning Hayes a nomination for Best Irish Female at the 2003 Meteor Music Awards. Its reception helped to solidify her influence within the burgeoning indie scene of the early 2000s, paving the way for future artists in the genre. Released in 2002, Back of My Hand was Gemma Hayes' debut album, emerging after her early singles gained traction in the Irish music scene. This album established her as a notable voice in indie-pop, following a period of local performances that garnered attention and set the stage for her subsequent career.

How many songs are on Back of My Hand?

Back of My Hand has 3 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Back of My Hand

Gemma Hayes · 2002

10 min · 3 tracks · pop music

An intricate blend of gentle melodies and raw emotion showcased through Hayes' ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Back of My Hand — The title track perfectly captures the album's essence, weaving together personal reflections with a haunting melody that showcases Hayes' vocal depth.
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Mama What's That Song — This track stands out with its catchy chorus and playful storytelling, illustrating Hayes' ability to blend simplicity with emotional resonance.
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Song for Julie — A poignant ballad, this song highlights Hayes' lyrical prowess and emotive delivery, creating a deeply personal narrative that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth, though its impact remains primarily within the indie scene.

What we noticed

The title track opens with a soft guitar riff that gradually builds, layering strings and harmonies as it progresses.
Each song features a prominent vocal melody that is supported by minimalistic instrumentation, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
The final track concludes with a fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of introspection.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This debut album established Gemma Hayes' reputation in indie-pop.
Career context: Released in 2002, Back of My Hand was Gemma Hayes' debut album, emerging after her early singles gained traction in the Irish music scene. This album established her as a notable voice in indie-pop, following a period of local performances that garnered attention and set the stage for her subsequent career.
Stylistic neighbors: Lisa Hannigan· Fiona Apple· Sufjan Stevens