What makes Good Woman by The Staves notable?

Good Woman received widespread acclaim from critics and was nominated for Best Folk Album at the 2022 UK Americana Awards. The album's themes resonated during a time when many were reflecting on relationships and personal growth amid global uncertainties, making it culturally relevant. Released on February 5, 2021, Good Woman is The Staves' third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 2017 record, If I Was. At this point in their career, the trio had solidified their signature sound, marked by intricate harmonies and personal songwriting, while also evolving their musical palette with more experimental elements.

Who is Good Woman for?

Good Woman works well if you're into reflective moments of self-discovery, warm harmonies for cozy afternoons and intimate listening for quiet evenings.

How many songs are on Good Woman?

Good Woman has 12 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Good Woman

The Staves · 2021

45 min · 12 tracks · folk rock

A tender blend of folk-infused harmonies and introspective lyrics that explore the nuances of love and self-discovery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Good Woman — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of femininity and self-acceptance, employing lush harmonies that highlight the sisters' vocal blend.
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Best Friend — This upbeat song contrasts the earnestness of its lyrics with an infectious melody, showcasing the band's ability to blend joy with vulnerability.
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Paralysed — With its haunting arrangement and poignant lyrics about feeling stuck, this track exemplifies the emotional depth that runs throughout the album.
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Nothing’s Gonna Happen — This reflective piece captures a sense of resignation and acceptance with its gentle instrumentation and contemplative vocals, representing a key thematic moment on the record.

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 harmonies and thoughtful lyrics, creating an engaging folk rock experience.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a steady mid-tempo pace, while the fourth introduces a more reflective tone with sparse instrumentation.
Harmonies are layered throughout, often featuring all three voices in close-knit arrangements that create a rich texture.
Several tracks feature abrupt shifts in dynamics, such as 'Paralysed', which contrasts quiet verses with a more powerful chorus.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective moments of self-discovery
warm harmonies for cozy afternoons
intimate listening for quiet evenings
gentle narratives of personal growth

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer instant gratification music

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on February 5, 2021, Good Woman is The Staves' third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 2017 record, If I Was. At this point in their career, the trio had solidified their signature sound, marked by intricate harmonies and personal songwriting, while also evolving their musical palette with more experimental elements.
Stylistic neighbors: First Aid Kit· The Civil Wars· Lucy Rose