Mabel Matiz cover

Mabel Matiz

Mabel Matiz · 2011

46 min · 12 tracks · pop music

A vibrant blend of Turkish pop and contemporary electronic sounds envelops the listener in its emotive storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Arafta — The opening track sets a captivating tone with its lush production and introspective lyrics, establishing Matiz's signature blend of emotional depth and catchy melodies.
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    Kül Hece — This track showcases Matiz's lyrical prowess, combining poetic imagery with a haunting melody that reflects themes of loss and longing, resonating deeply with listeners.
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    Öteki — With its infectious chorus and danceable rhythm, this song embodies the album's spirit by addressing themes of identity and belonging against an upbeat backdrop.
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    Peruk Gibi Hüzünlü — This track stands out for its raw emotional vulnerability paired with a minimalist arrangement, highlighting Matiz's ability to convey complex feelings through simplicity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional and modern sounds effectively, though it has some uneven pacing.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a mid-tempo track that features layered electronic beats and traditional Turkish instruments, setting a vibrant tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, creating a dynamic interplay between the lead vocals and backing harmonies.
  • The last three tracks shift to slower tempos, allowing for introspective moments that contrast with the earlier upbeat songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady flow with gradual resolution
  • poetic reflections on personal themes
  • intimate moments for quiet listening
  • vibrant melodies for emotional connection
  • suitable for reflective afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced, upbeat tracks
  • seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Mabel Matiz's self-titled debut album marked the beginning of her ascent in the Turkish pop music scene after her initial rise through local contests. Released in January 2011, it established her unique voice and style, leading to her recognition as a prominent figure in modern Turkish music.
Stylistic neighbors
Alma· Tove Lo· Lana Del Rey

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Söylese O Ben Söyleyemem

    The narrative shifts from third person to first person, revealing deeper personal insights about unexpressed emotions.

    This structural choice intensifies the intimacy of the song, making it feel like a confessional rather than just an observation.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Arafta 4:19
  • 2 Filler Ve Çimen 3:29
  • 3 Kül Hece 3:27
  • 4 Söylese O Ben Söyleyemem 4:37
  • 5 Mori'nin Meyhanesi 4:08
  • 6 Öteki 4:04
  • 7 Barışırsa Ruhum 3:33
  • 8 Peruk Gibi Hüzünlü 3:16
  • 9 Matizin Şarkısı 4:55
  • 10 Hercai Menekşe 3:29
  • 11 Zaman 4:32
  • 12 Şüpheli Şarkının Şairi 2:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata