Beachwood Canyon cover

Released 10 years ago

Beachwood Canyon

Jem · 2016

35 min · 10 tracks · folk rock

A shimmering blend of folk rock and pop, infused with introspective lyrics and lush instrumentation that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Beachwood Canyon — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of longing and reflection, weaving vivid imagery with a driving melody that sets the tone for the entire record.
  • →
    So Gold — The infectious chorus and upbeat rhythm of this track highlight Jem's ability to blend pop sensibilities with introspective lyrics, making it a standout single.
  • →
    Momma — With its heartfelt lyrics addressing motherhood, this track showcases Jem's personal journey and emotional depth, resonating deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features strong melodic elements but lacks significant innovation or cohesion throughout.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a brief instrumental track that sets a reflective tone before transitioning into the title track, which features layered harmonies and a steady rhythm.
  • Several tracks incorporate strings and soft percussion, creating a lush soundscape that supports Jem's vocal melodies without overpowering them.
  • The sequencing includes a notable shift in energy with 'So Gold' as the third track, which stands out for its upbeat tempo compared to the surrounding songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Momma

    The narrative shifts from personal reflection to direct address, creating an intimate connection with the listener.

    This structural choice emphasizes vulnerability and reinforces the song's emotional weight by breaking down barriers between the singer and audience.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Intro 0:39
  • 2 Beachwood Canyon 3:47
  • 3 So Gold 4:13
  • 4 My Love 3:19
  • 5 Momma 3:42
  • 6 Don't Look Back 3:15
  • 7 I Sit up in My Window 4:28
  • 8 Tell It to My Heart 3:26
  • 9 The Adventures of Cupid and Puck 3:43
  • 10 Hold On 5:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata