What makes Been Listening by Johnny Flynn notable?

Been Listening received critical acclaim upon release, highlighted by its inclusion in multiple year-end lists and praise from publications like The Guardian for its poetic lyrics and musical depth. The album helped solidify Flynn's reputation as a significant figure in contemporary folk music, influencing a wave of artists exploring similar sounds. Released in early 2010, Been Listening marked Johnny Flynn's sophomore album, following his debut record, A Larum. At this stage in his career, Flynn was establishing himself as an influential voice in the UK folk scene, blending traditional influences with modern storytelling techniques.

How many songs are on Been Listening?

Been Listening has 11 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Been Listening

Johnny Flynn · 2010

50 min · 11 tracks · folk music

A tapestry of intricate melodies crafted from rich folk traditions, infused with a contemporary sensibility.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kentucky Pill — Opening with a haunting melody, this track sets the tone for the album with its exploration of longing and introspection through vivid imagery.
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Lost and Found — This song showcases Flynn's storytelling prowess, weaving a narrative that captures the essence of searching for connection amidst life's chaos.
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The Water — With its flowing melodies and reflective lyrics, this track embodies the album's thematic exploration of nature and personal journeys.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional folk elements with contemporary songwriting, showcasing strong craftsmanship and lyrical depth.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong, rhythmic track that sets a lively pace, which is maintained through the first half before shifting to more introspective songs.
Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, including strings and harmonies that build gradually, creating a rich soundscape.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Kentucky Pill 3:52
2 Lost and Found 3:41
3 Churlish May 4:02
4 Been Listening 5:16
5 Barnacled Ship 5:12
6 Sweet William, Part 2 5:00
7 The Water 4:12
8 Howl 4:44
9 Agnes 3:40
10 Amazon Love 5:39
11 The Prizefighter and the Heiress 5:06

What to play next

Listen next

Sillion

2017

Go back to

A Larum

2008

Full Johnny Flynn discography Artists like Johnny Flynn

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata