Here's to Being Here
Jason Collett · 2008
47 min · 12 tracks · alternative country
A rich tapestry of reflective storytelling woven through melodic arrangements and earnest vocals that capture the essence of modern folk.
Top tracks — play these first
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Roll on Oblivion — The opening track sets the tone with its catchy melody and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the album's theme of navigating life's uncertainties.
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Henry’s Song — This track stands out for its poignant storytelling and emotional depth, showcasing Collett's ability to blend narrative with melody.
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Charlyn, Angel of Kensington — This song features intricate arrangements and vivid imagery, highlighting Collett's skill in character-driven songwriting.
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Not Over You — With its heartfelt lyrics and memorable chorus, this track represents a personal exploration of unresolved emotions that resonates throughout the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends reflective storytelling with varied instrumentation, creating a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that gradually shift to more introspective themes in the latter half.
- Several songs incorporate layered instrumentation, with strings and piano complementing the acoustic guitar base.
- Collett's vocal delivery varies from soft and contemplative to more assertive, reflecting the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- 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
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 storytelling with sincerity
- steady pacing with emotional peaks
- for quiet afternoons
- intimate moments of personal reflection
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy soundtracks
- need instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Here's to Being Here' was released in 2008, Jason Collett was solidifying his role within the Canadian indie music scene following a series of well-received albums. This album came after his breakthrough record 'Idols of Exile' in 2005, where he began to establish himself as a significant voice in alternative country.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ron Sexsmith· Hayes Carll· The Wooden Sky
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Henry’s Song
The narrative shifts from past memories to present reflections creates a sense of longing and resolution.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Roll on Oblivion 3:30
- 2 Sorry Lori 2:22
- 3 Out of Time 2:45
- 4 Papercut Hearts 3:04
- 5 Henry’s Song 4:09
- 6 Charlyn, Angel of Kensington 4:35
- 7 No Redemption Song 2:52
- 8 Through the Night These Days 3:32
- 9 Nothing to Lose 4:24
- 10 Not Over You 5:12
- 11 Somehow 5:38
- 12 Waiting for the World 5:37
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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