What makes Forgiven, Not Forgotten by The Corrs notable?

The album achieved significant commercial success, reaching the top of charts in several countries and earning multi-platinum certifications. It also paved the way for The Corrs to become a defining act in the late '90s pop-rock landscape, influencing a wave of similar bands who blended traditional sounds with modern pop. Released on February 2, 1996, Forgiven, Not Forgotten was The Corrs' debut album, marking their entry into the international music scene. At this point, the band was still relatively unknown outside of Ireland but quickly gained traction thanks to their unique sound that combined traditional Irish music with contemporary pop elements.

How many songs are on Forgiven, Not Forgotten?

Forgiven, Not Forgotten has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Forgiven, Not Forgotten

The Corrs · 1996

12 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Lush harmonies and Celtic influences intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating a captivating blend of folk and rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Forgiven, Not Forgotten — The title track showcases the band's signature blend of vocal harmonies and Celtic instrumentation, setting the tone for the entire album. Its emotional depth and catchy melody helped establish The Corrs' identity.
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Heaven Knows — This song features an infectious chorus and rich string arrangements, highlighting the band's ability to merge folk elements with mainstream pop. Its lyrical themes of longing resonate widely.
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Forgiven, Not Forgotten (acoustic) — The acoustic version strips back the production to emphasize the raw emotion in the vocals and lyrics, providing a contrast to the full band arrangement and showcasing their musical versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of folk and pop with strong melodies and harmonies but has some uneven pacing.

What we noticed

The album opens with a traditional instrumental track that sets a folk tone, followed by vocal tracks that alternate between upbeat and reflective.
Several tracks feature traditional Irish instrumentation, such as fiddles and tin whistles, which are woven into the pop arrangements.
The lead vocals often harmonize in layers, creating a rich texture, particularly in songs like 'Runaway' and 'Forgiven, Not Forgotten'.
The last three tracks include instrumental pieces that provide a contrast to the vocal-heavy sections, allowing for moments of reflection.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debut album that established The Corrs' reputation and commercial success.
Themes: Celtic nostalgia· Irish familial bonds· longing and reconciliation
Career context: Released on February 2, 1996, Forgiven, Not Forgotten was The Corrs' debut album, marking their entry into the international music scene. At this point, the band was still relatively unknown outside of Ireland but quickly gained traction thanks to their unique sound that combined traditional Irish music with contemporary pop elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Enya· Clannad· The Cranberries