Jen Cloher
Jen Cloher · 2017
49 min · 11 tracks · folk music
A raw and introspective blend of folk rock that weaves personal narratives with a distinctly Australian sensibility.
Top tracks — play these first
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Forgot Myself — Opening with a haunting melody, this track delves into themes of identity and self-reflection that resonate throughout the album.
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Strong Woman — This empowering anthem encapsulates Cloher's fierce lyricism while addressing societal expectations placed on women.
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Great Australian Bite — A poignant commentary on environmental issues, this track combines sharp lyrics with rich instrumentation to highlight Cloher's storytelling prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting with personal narratives, supported by cohesive pacing and varied dynamics.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
- Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that enhance the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
- The instrumentation often includes acoustic guitar and subtle percussion, creating an intimate atmosphere throughout.
- 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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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
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
- introspective reflections on struggle
- cathartic moments of self-discovery
- engaging narratives that unfold gradually
- thoughtful listening for quiet moments
- emotional resonance in personal stories
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party atmospheres
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released as Jen Cloher's self-titled third album, this work marked a significant point in her career following the critical success of her previous album, 'In Blood Memory'. At the time, Cloher was gaining recognition not only for her songwriting but also for her role in the Australian music scene, becoming a prominent figure in the local indie community.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Courtney Barnett· Lucy Dacus· Julien Baker
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Waiting in the Wings
The verse shifts perspective to reflect on the pressure of waiting for recognition and validation.
The change in narrative voice here emphasizes the internal struggle against external expectations, deepening the emotional weight of the song.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Forgot Myself 4:23
- 2 Analysis Paralysis 7:45
- 3 Regional Echo 5:42
- 4 Sensory Memory 3:42
- 5 Shoegazers 3:46
- 6 Strong Woman 2:58
- 7 Kinda Biblical 3:51
- 8 Great Australian Bite 4:41
- 9 Loose Magic 5:44
- 10 Waiting in the Wings 5:01
- 11 Dark Art 2:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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