Hymns for the Haunted
Amanda Jenssen · 2012
43 min · 12 tracks · jazz
A haunting blend of jazz-infused melodies and introspective lyrics that evoke a sense of melancholy and reflection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Ghost — The opening track sets an atmospheric tone with its ethereal instrumentation and introspective lyrics, establishing the overarching theme of the album.
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Illusionist — This song showcases Jenssen's vocal range and ability to blend jazz elements with storytelling, highlighting her artistic evolution.
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Thunderful Jolene — Featuring a catchy melody and clever lyrics, this track stands out for its playful yet poignant exploration of relationships.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends introspective lyrics with varied instrumentation, creating a distinct yet cohesive sound.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
- Several tracks incorporate unexpected instrumental breaks that shift the focus away from vocals, allowing for a more atmospheric experience.
- The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and metaphor, enhancing the haunting quality of the melodies.
- 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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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- melancholic reflections on solitude
- haunting melodies for introspection
- short tracks for quick sessions
- evocative storytelling through sound
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of upbeat tempos
- prefer straightforward lyrical themes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2012, Hymns for the Haunted is Amanda Jenssen's third studio album, following her 2009 release, Killing My Darlings. At this point in her career, Jenssen had established herself as a unique voice in the Swedish music scene, building on the success of her earlier albums while further exploring darker and more complex themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Norah Jones· Melody Gardot· Diana Krall
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Light and Easy
The bridge introduces a shift in perspective that contrasts vulnerability with a carefree attitude.
This structural choice adds depth to the narrative, illustrating how lightness can coexist with underlying emotional struggles.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Ghost 4:15
- 2 Boom 4:27
- 3 Volcano Swing 3:36
- 4 Light and Easy 2:49
- 5 Dry My Soul 3:07
- 6 Lay Down 2:09
- 7 Open the Lid 3:26
- 8 Illusionist 4:36
- 9 Leon 3:39
- 10 Thunderful Jolene 3:15
- 11 Michael's Garden 3:54
- 12 The Carnival 3:47
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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