Breathe cover

Breathe

Birdy · 2013

6 tracks · folk music

Ethereal melodies intertwine with heartfelt vocals, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that lingers long after the final note.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Skinny Love — This track serves as a cornerstone of Birdy's career, showcasing her emotive vocal delivery and minimalist arrangement that captivated audiences worldwide.
  • →
    Wings (Single Version) — The single version of 'Wings' exemplifies Birdy's growth as an artist, blending lush instrumentation with introspective lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
  • →
    Shine — 'Shine' highlights Birdy’s ability to balance vulnerability with empowerment, making it a standout moment in the EP that reflects personal growth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP features strong vocal performances and varied arrangements but lacks a cohesive narrative flow.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent use of piano and strings, creating a lush backdrop for the vocals.
  • The final track is a live version of 'Skinny Love,' which contrasts with the studio version by adding audience interaction.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting vocal moments to ponder
  • introspective melodies for reflection
  • live versions enhance emotional depth
  • fragmented pacing invites contemplation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks upbeat, fast-paced tracks
  • prefers consistent energy throughout

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in early 2013, Breathe followed Birdy's successful self-titled debut album and marked her transition from emerging artist to a recognized name in indie pop. This EP, featuring reimagined versions of her earlier work, solidified her distinct sound and emotional resonance in the music landscape.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Skinny Love

    A pivotal moment occurs when the narrative shifts from reflection to an urgent plea for connection, emphasizing emotional urgency.

    This shift amplifies the song's tension, drawing listeners into a more intimate space as the singer reveals deeper layers of longing.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Skinny Love
  • 2 Wings (Single Version)
  • 3 Wings (Live From Abbey Road)
  • 4 Shine
  • 5 What You Want
  • 6 Skinny Love (Live From The Sydney Opera House, April 2013)

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata