Better in Blak
Thelma Plum · 2019
36 min · 12 tracks
A vibrant fusion of pop and folk infused with sharp, narrative-driven lyrics that explore complex emotions and social issues.
Top tracks — play these first
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Clumsy Love — This track opens the album with catchy melodies and relatable themes of awkwardness in romance, showcasing Plum's knack for blending humor with vulnerability.
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Woke Blokes — A bold commentary on gender dynamics and societal expectations, this track stands out for its incisive lyrics and infectious rhythm, making it both thought-provoking and danceable.
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Homecoming Queen — In this standout track, Plum captures the complexities of returning home with a mix of nostalgia and disillusionment, highlighted by lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends pop and folk elements with narrative-driven lyrics, showcasing both personal and cultural themes.
What we noticed
- Several songs incorporate Indigenous languages and themes, particularly in 'Thulumaay Gii', which adds cultural depth to the lyrics.
- The arrangements often include layered vocal harmonies and acoustic instrumentation, creating a rich soundscape that complements the lyrical content.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- 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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5/10
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
- sharp narratives on social issues
- short tracks for quick bursts
- playful energy with emotional depth
- vibrant sound for lively moments
Maybe skip if you
- seeking long, immersive experiences
- prefer instrumental over lyrical focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on July 12, 2019, Better in Blak is Thelma Plum's debut studio album following her successful EPs, including the 2018 release of 'Monsters.' By this point, she had already gained recognition in the Australian music scene for her distinctive sound and storytelling abilities, setting the stage for her transition into a full-length project.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Julia Jacklin· Maggie Rogers· Angus & Julia Stone
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Clumsy Love 3:07
- 2 Don't Let A Good Girl Down 2:54
- 3 Love And War 3:28
- 4 Not Angry Anymore 3:23
- 5 Homecoming Queen 3:51
- 6 Better in Blak 3:12
- 7 Woke Blokes 2:34
- 8 Nick Cave 2:45
- 9 Thulumaay Gii 2:50
- 10 Ugly 3:07
- 11 Do You Ever Get So Sad You Can't Breathe 2:17
- 12 Made For You 3:31
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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