In the Nick of Time
Nicolette Larson · 1979
34 min · 10 tracks · country music
A rich blend of country and pop, infused with warm melodies and heartfelt lyrics that define Larson's inviting sound.
Top tracks — play these first
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Just in the Nick of Time — This title track showcases Larson's soulful vocal delivery and reflects themes of timely love, making it a standout moment on the album. Its commercial success helped establish her as a star.
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Dancin' Jones — An upbeat opener, Dancin' Jones encapsulates the joyful spirit of the album with its catchy hooks and danceable rhythm, setting the tone for Larson's vibrant approach.
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Rio De Janeiro Blues — This track highlights Larson's ability to blend storytelling with a laid-back groove, bringing a sense of wanderlust and nostalgia that resonates throughout the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases solid songwriting and vocal performances but lacks a strong cohesive arc throughout.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the following tracks introduce varying tempos and styles, creating a dynamic flow.
- Several songs feature prominent backing harmonies that complement Larson's lead vocals, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
- The album closes with a ballad that gradually builds in intensity, contrasting with the more upbeat tracks earlier in the sequence.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- 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
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
- warm storytelling for cozy evenings
- steady pacing for relaxed drives
- catchy melodies for sing-alongs
- short tracks for quick listens
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, high-energy music
- seeking experimental soundscapes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In the Nick of Time is Nicolette Larson's debut album, released in 1979 as she transitioned from a successful career as a backing vocalist. At this point, Larson was gaining recognition for her vocal contributions to artists like Neil Young and was poised to establish herself as a solo artist. This album marked the beginning of her exploration into a sound that combined her country roots with mainstream pop sensibilities.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Linda Ronstadt· Emmylou Harris· Joni Mitchell
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dancin' Jones 3:19
- 2 Just in the Nick of Time 3:22
- 3 Let Me Go Love 3:49
- 4 Rio De Janeiro Blues 3:50
- 5 Breaking Too Many Hearts 3:34
- 6 Back in My Arms Again 3:52
- 7 Fallen 3:24
- 8 Daddy 3:24
- 9 Isn't It Always Love 3:07
- 10 Trouble 2:32
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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