How About I Be Me (And You Be You)? cover

How About I Be Me (And You Be You)?

Sinéad O'Connor · 2012

45 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A soulful blend of folk and rock, infused with poignant lyrics and O'Connor's unmistakable vocal intensity.

Top tracks — play these first

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    4th and Vine — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its reflective lyrics about longing and the passage of time, establishing a deep emotional resonance.
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    The Wolf Is Getting Married — This song stands out for its unique blend of upbeat melodies and complex themes surrounding love and commitment, showcasing O'Connor's lyrical prowess.
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    Queen of Denmark — A standout track that combines haunting vocals with rich instrumentation, it serves as a powerful commentary on identity and self-acceptance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and vocal performance, with a cohesive flow despite some dips in energy.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a mid-tempo track that features layered instrumentation, gradually introducing O'Connor's vocal intensity.
  • The last three tracks slow down significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier songs.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • late-night contemplative moods
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • reflective listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued artistic vitality and introspection in O'Connor's later years.
Career context
When How About I Be Me (And You Be You)? was released in 2012, Sinéad O'Connor had already established herself as a provocative and influential artist, but she was navigating a period of personal and professional upheaval. This album marked her first release after a four-year hiatus and followed her controversial public persona, showcasing her resilience and artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors
Tori Amos· PJ Harvey· Kate Bush

Tracklist

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

  • 1 4th and Vine 3:59
  • 2 Reason With Me 4:03
  • 3 Old Lady 3:44
  • 4 Take Off Your Shoes 5:29
  • 5 Back Where You Belong 4:17
  • 6 The Wolf Is Getting Married 4:23
  • 7 Queen of Denmark 4:38
  • 8 Very Far From Home 3:55
  • 9 I Had a Baby 4:12
  • 10 V.I.P. 6:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata