Gratitude cover

Gratitude

Benjamin Francis Leftwich · 2019

40 min · 12 tracks

A delicate blend of introspective lyrics and gentle melodies, enveloped in soothing acoustic arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Gratitude — The title track encapsulates the album's theme of appreciation and reflection, featuring earnest vocals that set the tone for the entire record.
  • →
    Real Friends — This track stands out with its heartfelt exploration of friendship dynamics, showcasing Leftwich's ability to weave relatable narratives into his songwriting.
  • →
    Look Ma! — The upbeat energy and catchy melody of 'Look Ma!' highlight Leftwich's versatility, blending lightheartedness with deeper emotional undertones.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases personal themes with layered melodies but lacks standout production elements.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a steady, gentle tempo, while the second half introduces more varied dynamics and instrumentation.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
  • The lyrics often reflect personal themes and introspection, with a focus on emotional vulnerability throughout the record.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

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

  • intimate melodies for quiet moments
  • reflective listening during solitude
  • short tracks for quick sessions
  • soothing background for relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy anthems
  • prefer longer, sprawling compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released as Benjamin Francis Leftwich's third studio album, Gratitude followed his 2016 album After the Rain and marked a significant return after personal struggles. By this time, Leftwich had rebuilt his creative confidence and sought to express newfound optimism through his music.
Stylistic neighbors
Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· Damien Rice

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Gratitude 2:49
  • 2 Look Ma! 2:56
  • 3 Sometimes 3:54
  • 4 Big Fish 4:03
  • 5 Tell Me You Started to Pray 3:00
  • 6 Luzern 3:07
  • 7 I Got You 3:56
  • 8 Real Friends 3:16
  • 9 Blue Dress 3:30
  • 10 Miracle Sister 2:52
  • 11 Roísín 3:42
  • 12 The Mess We Make 3:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata