What makes Living in the Present Future by Eagle-Eye Cherry notable?

The album received positive reviews, with critics noting its growth in lyrical depth compared to Cherry's debut. It charted in several countries and continued to solidify Cherry's presence in the pop and jazz-inflected music scene of the early 2000s, influencing emerging artists with its melodic hooks and reflective lyrics. Released in 2001, Living in the Present Future was Eagle-Eye Cherry's second album, following his successful debut, Desireless, which featured the hit single 'Save Tonight.' This project marked a shift as he sought to establish his own musical identity beyond the initial breakout success, incorporating more personal themes and varied instrumentation.

Who is Living in the Present Future for?

Living in the Present Future works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, laid-back vibes for casual listening and introspective themes for quiet afternoons.

How many songs are on Living in the Present Future?

Living in the Present Future has 13 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Living in the Present Future

Eagle-Eye Cherry · 2001

49 min · 13 tracks · jazz

A blend of jazzy melodies and pop sensibilities, creating an introspective soundscape that invites both reflection and enjoyment.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Are You Still Having Fun? — This track stands out due to its catchy chorus and introspective questioning of life's joys, encapsulating the album's exploration of self-awareness.
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One Good Reason — With its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics about longing for connection, this song captures Cherry's trademark blend of pop appeal and emotional depth.
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Burning Up — This track showcases a more upbeat tempo while maintaining thoughtful lyrics, reflecting the tension between desire and reality that runs throughout the album.

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 showcases solid melodies and arrangements, though it doesn't stand out significantly in its genre.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of soft, melodic instrumentation with a focus on guitar and piano throughout its tracks.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, but the overall emphasis remains on the instrumental arrangements.
The tempo varies slightly across the album, but most songs maintain a relaxed, mid-tempo feel that encourages introspection.

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

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
laid-back vibes for casual listening
introspective themes for quiet afternoons
catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2001, Living in the Present Future was Eagle-Eye Cherry's second album, following his successful debut, Desireless, which featured the hit single 'Save Tonight.' This project marked a shift as he sought to establish his own musical identity beyond the initial breakout success, incorporating more personal themes and varied instrumentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Jack Johnson· Norah Jones· John Mayer