In the Blood cover

In the Blood

Londonbeat · 1990

49 min · 12 tracks · rhythm and blues

Upbeat dance-pop rhythms intertwine with smooth R&B melodies, creating a vibrant soundtrack for the early '90s club scene.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I've Been Thinking About You — This track became an international hit, showcasing Londonbeat's signature blend of catchy hooks and danceable rhythms that defined their style.
  • →
    No Woman No Cry — Their cover of this classic Bob Marley song reflects a unique interpretation that marries reggae roots with their dance-pop sensibilities, illustrating their versatility.
  • →
    It's in the Blood — The title track encapsulates themes of love and connection, featuring infectious melodies that highlight the group's vocal harmonies and production quality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features strong dance-pop elements but lacks depth in songwriting and cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a consistent upbeat tempo, while the second half introduces slower ballads that shift the mood.
  • Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal arrangements, enhancing the interactive feel typical of dance-pop.
  • The production employs layered harmonies and synth-driven instrumentation, creating a polished sound characteristic of early '90s pop.
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
5/10

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

  • infectious grooves for dancing
  • heartfelt melodies for sing-alongs
  • uplifting vibes for celebrations
  • for social gatherings
  • emotional resonance in every track

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
In the Blood was Londonbeat's second studio album, following their successful self-titled debut. Released in 1990, it solidified their presence in the dance-pop genre after their breakout single, 'I've Been Thinking About You,' which had already charted internationally.
Stylistic neighbors
Soul II Soul· Crystal Waters· Enigma

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • It's in the Blood

    The bridge shifts from a narrative perspective to a more emotional plea, emphasizing vulnerability in relationships.

    This structural choice deepens the emotional impact, contrasting earlier sections and drawing listeners into an intimate reflection on love.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 I've Been Thinking About You 5:17
  • 2 A Better Love 4:00
  • 3 No Woman No Cry 4:06
  • 4 It's in the Blood 4:49
  • 5 Getcha Ya Ya 4:33
  • 6 Step Inside My Shoes 4:16
  • 7 She Broke My Heart (In 36 Places) 3:39
  • 8 She Said She Loves Me 4:14
  • 9 This Is Your Life 2:04
  • 10 Crying in the Rain 4:59
  • 11 In an I Love You Mood 4:14
  • 12 You Love and Learn 3:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata