Is Gone Again a good place to start with Patti Smith?

Yes, Gone Again is recommended as a starting point for new Patti Smith listeners. A haunting blend of raw emotion and poetic introspection, layered with rich instrumentation and Smith's evocative vocals. Released in 1996, Gone Again marked Patti Smith's return after a lengthy hiatus following her 1988 album Dream of Life. By this point, she was navigating personal loss, particularly the death of her partner Fred 'Sonic' Smith, which deeply influenced the album's themes and emotional weight.

Who is Gone Again for?

Gone Again works well if you're into steady emotional progression throughout, haunting reflections on loss and moments of raw catharsis.

How many songs are on Gone Again?

Gone Again has 11 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Gone Again

Patti Smith · 1996

55 min · 11 tracks · rock music

A haunting blend of raw emotion and poetic introspection, layered with rich instrumentation and Smith's evocative vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Gone Again Start here — The title track sets the tone for the album with its somber reflection on absence and longing, showcasing Smith's ability to blend personal grief with universal themes.
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About a Boy — This track features an intricate narrative structure and evokes a sense of nostalgia while addressing complex themes of youth and loss, exemplifying Smith's lyrical prowess.
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Summer Cannibals — With its driving rhythm and sharp lyrics, this song stands out as a commentary on societal issues, balancing urgency with poetic nuance that reflects Smith’s punk roots.
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Fireflies — The closing track creates an ethereal atmosphere with its extended length and meditative quality, allowing listeners to reflect on the journey of the album through Smith's layered soundscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

Smith's blend of poetic lyricism and emotive rock creates a distinctive sound that resonates with themes of loss.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features layered guitars and a steady drumbeat, establishing a haunting atmosphere.
Several tracks, like 'About a Boy' and 'My Madrigal', incorporate spoken word elements alongside traditional singing, blending poetry with melody.
The last three tracks gradually reduce in tempo, creating a reflective closing sequence that emphasizes themes of loss and renewal.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady emotional progression throughout
haunting reflections on loss
moments of raw catharsis
thoughtful listening in solitude
poetic storytelling with depth

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks Smith's return after a hiatus, showcasing her continued artistic vitality.
Themes: Kurt Cobain tribute· personal loss· post-hiatus reflection
Career context: Released in 1996, Gone Again marked Patti Smith's return after a lengthy hiatus following her 1988 album Dream of Life. By this point, she was navigating personal loss, particularly the death of her partner Fred 'Sonic' Smith, which deeply influenced the album's themes and emotional weight.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· The Velvet Underground· Joy Division