Gold in a Brass Age
David Gray · 2019
46 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective blend of alt-rock and pop, infused with introspective lyrics and melodic sophistication.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Sapling Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Gold in a Brass Age — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of reflection and change, featuring rich instrumentation that complements Gray's poignant vocal delivery.
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Hurricane Season — This track stands out for its evocative storytelling and atmospheric production, illustrating the emotional turmoil inherent in Gray's songwriting.
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Watching the Waves — With its contemplative lyrics and serene melody, this song captures a sense of longing and introspection that permeates the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases solid songwriting and emotional depth but lacks standout production or innovation.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that build in intensity, particularly in the choruses, enhancing emotional impact.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 pacing for reflective moments
- introspective lyrics for quiet contemplation
- emotional resonance in gradual decline
- for late-night listening
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party vibes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and musical evolution after a transitional phase.
- Career context
- By the release of 'Gold in a Brass Age', David Gray was navigating a transitional phase in his career, following the commercial success of 'Mutineers' in 2014. This album marks his return after a five-year hiatus, showcasing a matured sound that reflects personal and artistic growth.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Damien Rice· James Blunt· Nick Drake
Tracklist
- 1 The Sapling Start here 3:26
- 2 Gold in a Brass Age 4:20
- 3 Furthering 4:32
- 4 Ridiculous Heart 4:00
- 5 It's Late 2:15
- 6 A Tight Ship 4:49
- 7 Watching the Waves 4:44
- 8 Hall of Mirrors 4:03
- 9 Hurricane Season 5:35
- 10 Mallory 4:45
- 11 If 8 Were 9 3:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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