What makes I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) by Grace Jones notable?

The album is notable for its innovative fusion of tango and contemporary pop, which helped solidify Jones' reputation as a genre-defying artist. It received critical acclaim upon release, with particular praise from publications like Rolling Stone and The New York Times, highlighting its influence on the emerging post-disco sound and club culture. Released in 1981, I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) marked a pivotal moment in Grace Jones' career as her first album that fully embraced a diverse range of genres following her breakthrough with 1980's Warm Leatherette. At this stage, she was transitioning into an international pop icon, known for her unique style and bold artistic choices.

How many songs are on I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango)?

I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango)

Grace Jones · 1981

8 min · 2 tracks · contemporary R&B

A sultry blend of disco, new wave, and tango rhythms, infused with Grace Jones' commanding vocals and theatrical flair.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) — This track stands out as it showcases Jones' ability to merge dramatic storytelling with a danceable beat, redefining traditional genres.
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Warm Leatherette — As the title track from her previous album, this song exemplifies Jones’ pioneering approach to reggae-infused electronic music, influencing future artists across genres.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong production and unique sound but lacks the depth of a full album experience.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent, syncopated bassline that drives the rhythm while Grace Jones' vocals glide over it with a sultry delivery.
The arrangement of 'Warm Leatherette' incorporates stark synthesizer sounds and a minimalist beat, creating a cold, mechanical atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single helped solidify Grace Jones' presence in mainstream music.
Themes: Parisian nightlife· tango-infused rhythms· disco-era glamour
Career context: Released in 1981, I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) marked a pivotal moment in Grace Jones' career as her first album that fully embraced a diverse range of genres following her breakthrough with 1980's Warm Leatherette. At this stage, she was transitioning into an international pop icon, known for her unique style and bold artistic choices.
Stylistic neighbors: Chic· Annie Lennox· David Bowie