What makes Despite It All by Brinsley Schwarz notable?

This album is notable for its influence on the pub rock scene, which later paved the way for punk rock in the UK. Despite It All received positive reviews from critics, solidifying Brinsley Schwarz's reputation for blending rock with country influences. The album also features songs that would become staples in their live sets, demonstrating their growing popularity among audiences. Despite It All marked Brinsley Schwarz's second album, following their self-titled debut in 1969. At this point in their career, they were beginning to carve out a niche within the burgeoning pub rock scene in the UK. This album showcased their evolving sound and lyrical depth, further establishing them as key players in the early '70s rock movement.

How many songs are on Despite It All?

Despite It All has 8 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Despite It All

Brinsley Schwarz · 1970

36 min · 8 tracks · rock music

A blend of rootsy rock and heartfelt storytelling, capturing the essence of early '70s British music culture.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Country Girl — The opening track sets the tone with its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, encapsulating the band's blend of rock and country influences.
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Funk Angel — This song showcases an experimental edge with its groovy rhythm and playful lyrics, highlighting the band's ability to infuse funk into their rock sound.
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Old Jarrow — As a lengthy closing track, it represents the band’s storytelling prowess while weaving a rich tapestry of musical textures over its sprawling duration.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

47 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends rock with storytelling elements, showcasing solid songwriting and cohesive pacing.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective pace.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that complement the lead vocals, enhancing the storytelling aspect.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, creating a sense of resolution and calm.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Country Girl 3:02
2 The Slow One 5:29
3 Funk Angel 4:18
4 Piece of Home 6:15
5 Love Song 3:03
6 Star Ship 2:35
7 Ebury Down 5:10
8 Old Jarrow 7:05

What to play next

Listen next

Silver Pistol

1972

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Brinsley Schwarz

1970

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata