Broken Politics cover

Broken Politics

Neneh Cherry · 2018

46 min · 12 tracks · hip-hop

A fusion of introspective lyrics and eclectic soundscapes, blending hip-hop, jazz, and pop in a reflective narrative.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Fallen Leaves — This track features haunting melodies paired with poignant lyrics, setting the tone for the album's exploration of personal and political themes.
  • →
    Synchronised Devotion — The song stands out with its rhythmic complexity and lyrical depth, merging emotional vulnerability with a captivating beat structure.
  • →
    Black Monday — Addressing societal issues head-on, this track combines sharp commentary with Cherry's distinctive vocal delivery, making it a pivotal moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's innovative blend of genres and introspective lyrics create a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a minimalist instrumental that gradually layers in vocals, setting a reflective tone.
  • Tracks often feature unconventional song structures, with shifts in tempo and mood that challenge traditional hip-hop forms.
  • Several songs incorporate spoken word elements alongside melodic hooks, blurring the lines between rap and poetry.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • thought-provoking lyrical depth
  • immersive listening experience

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2018, Neneh Cherry released 'Broken Politics' as her first studio album in nearly 18 years, following the critically acclaimed 'The Cherry Thing' from 2012. This album marked a significant return to the music scene for Cherry, showcasing her evolved sound and continued relevance in contemporary music.
Stylistic neighbors
Erykah Badu· Tricky· Lauryn Hill

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Fallen Leaves 3:19
  • 2 Kong 4:24
  • 3 Poem Daddy 0:48
  • 4 Synchronised Devotion 4:07
  • 5 Deep Vein Thrombosis 4:31
  • 6 Faster Than the Truth 3:47
  • 7 Natural Skin Deep 4:41
  • 8 Shot Gun Shack 3:57
  • 9 Black Monday 4:42
  • 10 Cheap Breakfast Special 1:09
  • 11 Slow Release 5:42
  • 12 Soldier 4:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata