Can't We Fall in Love Again? cover

Can't We Fall in Love Again?

Phyllis Hyman · 1981

35 min · 8 tracks · jazz

Smooth jazz-inflected vocals intertwine with rich soul melodies, creating an intimate atmosphere of longing and romance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    You Sure Look Good to Me — As the lead single, this track showcases Hyman's captivating vocal delivery and sets the tone for the album's romantic themes.
  • →
    Can’t We Fall in Love Again — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, blending heartfelt lyrics with a smooth melody that highlights Hyman's emotional range.
  • →
    The Sunshine in My Life — This song features a joyful arrangement and uplifting lyrics, demonstrating Hyman's ability to convey warmth and positivity while maintaining her signature soulful sound.

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 showcases strong songwriting and production, with an engaging flow and emotional depth in Hyman's performance.

What we noticed

  • The album features smooth jazz-inflected vocals that are layered with lush instrumental arrangements, creating a rich sonic texture.
  • Each track maintains a mid-tempo pace, with the majority featuring a consistent groove that emphasizes Hyman's emotive delivery.
  • Several songs incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the intimate atmosphere and engaging the listener.
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
6/10

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 mid-tempo romantic vibes
  • soulful melodies for intimate moments
  • late-night conversations with friends
  • emotional depth in every track

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced listening experiences
  • seek standalone upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1981, Phyllis Hyman was transitioning from her early career in the late 1970s to becoming a prominent figure in the R&B and jazz scenes. 'Can't We Fall in Love Again?' marked her second studio album, following her self-titled debut, and showcased her vocal prowess solidifying her place in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Angela Bofill· Lalah Hathaway· Chaka Khan

Tracklist

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

  • 1 You Sure Look Good to Me 4:15
  • 2 Don’t Tell Me, Tell Her 4:18
  • 3 I Ain’t Asking 4:03
  • 4 Can’t We Fall in Love Again 4:39
  • 5 The Love Too Good to Last 4:07
  • 6 Tonight You and Me 3:45
  • 7 The Sunshine in My Life 4:28
  • 8 Just Another Face in the Crowd 5:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata