Homage cover

Homage

Jimmy Somerville · 2015

48 min · 12 tracks · pop music

A vibrant fusion of synth-pop and hi-NRG that embodies a celebration of love and resilience through infectious melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Some Wonder — Opening the album, this track sets an uplifting tone with its engaging rhythm and reflective lyrics about self-discovery and hope.
  • →
    Strong Enough — This empowering anthem showcases Somerville's powerful vocals while addressing themes of resilience and inner strength, resonating deeply with listeners.
  • →
    Freak — With its infectious beat and playful lyrics, this song celebrates individuality and freedom, embodying the spirit of Somerville's artistic identity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends contemporary pop with classic influences, offering a mix of energetic and reflective moments.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half introduces slower ballads that shift the emotional tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered synths and driving beats, creating a danceable quality that is prevalent throughout.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • uplifting melodies with introspective lyrics
  • for thoughtful afternoon listening
  • consistent flow for easy enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2015, Homage is Jimmy Somerville's first studio album in nearly two decades, following his 1999 work, Manage the Damage. This period marked Somerville's return to music after a long hiatus, as he sought to reconnect with his roots in dance and pop music while reflecting on his life's experiences.
Stylistic neighbors
Bronski Beat· Pet Shop Boys· Erasure

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Strong Enough

    The moment shifts from vulnerability to proclamation, where the speaker asserts their determination in overcoming adversity.

    This shift not only highlights personal growth but also serves as a rallying cry for listeners facing their own challenges.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Some Wonder 3:53
  • 2 Strong Enough 4:19
  • 3 Freak 3:36
  • 4 Taken Away 4:39
  • 5 Back to Me 4:44
  • 6 The Core 3:52
  • 7 Travesty 4:24
  • 8 Bright Thing 3:54
  • 9 Lights Are Shining 3:17
  • 10 This Hand 3:30
  • 11 Overload 4:06
  • 12 Learned to Talk 4:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata