Lament for the Numb
Dave Dobbyn · 1993
36 min · 11 tracks
A blend of introspective songwriting and melodic pop, wrapped in a distinctly New Zealand soundscape.
Top tracks — play these first
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Lament for the Numb — The title track encapsulates the album's theme of grappling with emotional numbness through haunting melodies and poignant lyrics that resonate deeply.
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Belle of the Ball — This track showcases Dobbyn's knack for storytelling, blending upbeat instrumentation with reflective lyrics about longing and celebration.
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Bring the House Down — A lively anthem that contrasts with the album's more somber moments, highlighting Dobbyn's versatility in blending pop sensibilities with an energetic performance.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and melodic elements but lacks some cohesion in pacing.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm that contrasts with the preceding songs.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the chorus, which enhances the melodic quality of the songs.
- The album closes with a ballad that gradually builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful emotional delivery.
- 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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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
- reflective moments of quiet introspection
- short tracks for quick engagement
- melodic hooks that linger gently
- soundtrack for nostalgic reminiscing
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party tracks
- prefer lengthy immersive albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1993, Lament for the Numb is Dave Dobbyn's fourth studio album, following his successful record, The Islander. At this point in his career, Dobbyn had established himself as a prominent figure in the New Zealand music scene, known for his catchy melodies and poignant lyrics. This album solidified his reputation and showcased his artistic evolution.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tim Finn· Neil Finn· Crowded House
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Lament for the Numb 3:32
- 2 Falling of a Log 2:46
- 3 Belle of the Ball 3:57
- 4 The Expert 3:46
- 5 Palace 2:21
- 6 Bring the House Down 2:58
- 7 Buried in the Backyard 2:36
- 8 Maybe the Rain 2:50
- 9 Belltower 4:00
- 10 Love Over All 3:01
- 11 Don't Hold Your Breath 4:49
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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