Released 10 years ago
Beautiful Lies
Birdy · 2016
52 min · 14 tracks · folk music
A shimmering blend of introspective lyrics and ethereal melodies that evoke a sense of yearning and emotional depth.
Top tracks — play these first
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Keeping Your Head Up — This track stands out for its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, capturing the album's overall theme of resilience in the face of challenges.
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Shadow — With its haunting piano arrangement and vulnerable lyrics, this song exemplifies Birdy's skill in conveying deep emotions through minimalistic instrumentation.
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Words — Words features a powerful vocal delivery and introspective lyrics that highlight the struggle to articulate feelings, representing the album’s exploration of communication in relationships.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album combines strong melodies with polished production, though it follows familiar indie pop structures.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces slower ballads that create a contrasting dynamic.
- Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
- The production includes atmospheric synths and piano arrangements that complement Birdy's vocal delivery, creating a lush soundscape.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- contemplative reflective moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on March 25, 2016, Beautiful Lies is Birdy's third studio album, following her acclaimed sophomore effort, Fire Within. At this point in her career, Birdy had already established herself as a significant figure in the indie pop scene, known for her haunting vocals and poignant songwriting. This album reflects a maturation in her artistry as she navigates themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lana Del Rey· Florence + the Machine· Bat for Lashes
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Shadow
The verses depict a struggle with inner demons while the chorus shifts to a more hopeful tone, suggesting a journey towards self-acceptance.
This dynamic shift not only illustrates the conflict within but also emphasizes growth, showcasing Birdy’s ability to weave complex emotional narratives.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Growing Pains 3:48
- 2 Shadow 4:01
- 3 Keeping Your Head Up 3:29
- 4 Deep End 3:28
- 5 Wild Horses 3:05
- 6 Lost It All 3:47
- 7 Silhouette 4:10
- 8 Lifted 4:23
- 9 Take My Heart 4:12
- 10 Hear You Calling 4:01
- 11 Words 3:37
- 12 Save Yourself 3:34
- 13 Unbroken 4:26
- 14 Beautiful Lies 2:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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