Is Begin Again a good place to start with Norah Jones?

Yes, Begin Again is recommended as a starting point for new Norah Jones listeners. A gentle blend of folk and jazz-infused melodies that evoke introspection and warmth throughout its intimate arrangements. By 2019, Norah Jones had established herself as a versatile artist with multiple Grammy Awards, making 'Begin Again' her first album since 2016's 'Day Breaks'. This album reflects her return to a more stripped-down, personal sound after exploring various musical styles in previous projects.

Who is Begin Again for?

Begin Again works well if you're into gentle reflections on renewal, for quiet evenings and introspective moments of solitude.

How many songs are on Begin Again?

Begin Again has 7 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Begin Again

Norah Jones · 2019

28 min · 7 tracks · blues

A gentle blend of folk and jazz-infused melodies that evoke introspection and warmth throughout its intimate arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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My Heart Is Full Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its heartfelt lyrics and smooth instrumentation, showcasing Jones' signature vocal style and lyrical vulnerability.
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Begin Again — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of renewal and reflection, featuring an inviting melody that resonates with listeners seeking solace and hope.
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It Was You — With its rich storytelling and poignant delivery, this song captures the essence of longing while blending elements of jazz and folk seamlessly.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album features intimate arrangements and a consistent emotional tone, making it rewarding for repeated listens.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track shifts to a more subdued and introspective tone.
Each song is built around simple chord progressions that allow for vocal melodies to take center stage without complex instrumentation.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

gentle reflections on renewal
for quiet evenings
introspective moments of solitude
warm melodies for cozy spaces

Maybe skip if you

seeks fast-paced excitement
prefers high-energy anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and emotional depth in her later works.
Themes: intimate reflections· heartfelt storytelling· quiet renewal
Career context: By 2019, Norah Jones had established herself as a versatile artist with multiple Grammy Awards, making 'Begin Again' her first album since 2016's 'Day Breaks'. This album reflects her return to a more stripped-down, personal sound after exploring various musical styles in previous projects.
Stylistic neighbors: Madeleine Peyroux· Diana Krall· Sarah Jarosz

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Just a Little Bit

In a reflective bridge, the narrative shifts to express a yearning for connection amidst moments of solitude.

This structural change deepens the emotional impact by contrasting earlier verses that focused on independence, highlighting vulnerability at a pivotal moment.