Hoodoo cover

Hoodoo

Alison Moyet · 1991

47 min · 11 tracks · contemporary R&B

A fusion of soulful vocals and atmospheric production that evokes both intimacy and longing throughout its diverse soundscapes.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Footsteps Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    It Won’t Be Long — This track features an infectious melody paired with poignant lyrics about the passage of time, encapsulating the album's emotional core.
  • →
    Hoodoo — The title track combines haunting vocals with a rich instrumental backdrop, exemplifying Moyet's ability to convey depth through music.
  • →
    Wishing You Were Here — This song stands out for its heartfelt lyrical content and soulful delivery, resonating with themes of loss and yearning.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Hoodoo blends R&B and pop with strong vocals and varied tempos, creating an engaging yet cohesive experience.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a mid-tempo groove with layered instrumentation, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm.
  • Several songs feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the interaction between Moyet's voice and the backing harmonies.
  • The album closes with two slower tracks that create a reflective atmosphere, contrasting with the earlier energy.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • introspective emotional exploration
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • contemplative late-night vibes
  • rich, layered sonic textures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified Moyet's reputation after her successful debut, expanding her recognition.
Career context
When 'Hoodoo' was released in January 1991, Alison Moyet was transitioning from her successful debut solo album, 'Alf,' which had established her as a prominent voice in British pop. This record marked her third studio release, showcasing her artistic evolution as she explored deeper emotional themes and varied musical styles.
Stylistic neighbors
Annie Lennox· Sade· Kate Bush

Tracklist

  • 1 Footsteps Start here 4:59
  • 2 It Won’t Be Long 4:15
  • 3 This House 3:54
  • 4 Rise 3:46
  • 5 Wishing You Were Here 3:55
  • 6 (Meeting With My) Main Man 4:39
  • 7 Hoodoo 4:43
  • 8 Back Where I Belong 4:01
  • 9 My Right A·R·M 4:36
  • 10 Never Too Late 3:29
  • 11 Find Me 5:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata