What makes Homebrew by Neneh Cherry notable?

The album was significant for its innovative sound and received critical acclaim, particularly for tracks like 'Buddy X', which became a club hit. 'Homebrew' further established Neneh Cherry as a pioneering force in the alternative hip-hop and trip-hop landscapes. By the time 'Homebrew' was released in October 1992, Neneh Cherry had already made waves with her debut album 'Raw Like Sushi' in 1989. This follow-up showcased her continued evolution as an artist, blending genres and solidifying her position in the music scene after the commercial success of her earlier work.

Homebrew works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, mid-tempo flow for relaxation and uplifting and reflective moments.

How many songs are on Homebrew?

Homebrew has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Released 34 years ago this October

Homebrew

Neneh Cherry · 1992

42 min · 10 tracks · hip-hop

An eclectic fusion of alternative hip-hop, pop, and jazz that radiates a vibrant, experimental energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Buddy X — This track stands out with its infectious beat and catchy hook, becoming one of Cherry's most recognizable songs and a staple in dance clubs during the early '90s.
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Money Love — Offering a blend of sharp lyrics and smooth melodies, this track encapsulates Cherry's unique approach to addressing themes of love and materialism within a vibrant musical framework.
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I Ain't Gone Under Yet — This song showcases Cherry's powerful vocal delivery combined with an uplifting message, reflecting resilience and strength amidst adversity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends genres with innovative arrangements, though its cohesion varies across tracks.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong rhythmic foundation, using layered beats and samples that create a dynamic backdrop for Cherry's vocals.
Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between sections, shifting from rap verses to melodic choruses without warning.
The use of jazz elements, such as brass instrumentation and syncopated rhythms, is prominent in multiple songs, adding complexity to the hip-hop framework.
The final track features a spoken word section that contrasts with the preceding musical styles, creating a reflective conclusion.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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, consistent energy levels
mid-tempo flow for relaxation
uplifting and reflective moments
varied track lengths for diversity

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Homebrew' was released in October 1992, Neneh Cherry had already made waves with her debut album 'Raw Like Sushi' in 1989. This follow-up showcased her continued evolution as an artist, blending genres and solidifying her position in the music scene after the commercial success of her earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors: Erykah Badu· Tricky· Lauryn Hill