What makes Madrugada by Melanie notable?

The album features a cover of the classic 'Wild Horses,' showcasing Melanie's unique interpretation and helping to revitalize interest in the song. Additionally, 'Madrugada' received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and has since influenced a number of contemporary folk artists. Released in January 1974, 'Madrugada' was Melanie's fourth studio album following her breakthrough with 'Brand New Key.' At this point in her career, she was solidifying her presence in the folk-pop scene, building on her previous successes while exploring deeper emotional themes and more complex arrangements.

Who is Madrugada for?

Madrugada works well if you're into wave-like emotional fluctuations, heartfelt storytelling and melodies and late-night reflective moments.

How many songs are on Madrugada?

Madrugada has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Madrugada

Melanie · 1974

41 min · 10 tracks · country music

Melanie's 'Madrugada' combines folk sincerity with country-inspired melodies, creating a reflective and emotive sonic landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wild Horses — Melanie's rendition transforms the iconic ballad into a haunting meditation, highlighting her distinct vocal delivery and emotional depth.
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Lover’s Cross — This track exemplifies Melanie's storytelling prowess, weaving themes of love and loss through vivid imagery and heartfelt melodies.
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I Think It’s Going to Rain Today — Her interpretation infuses the song with a poignant sense of melancholy, making it resonate deeply with listeners seeking solace in vulnerability.

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

Melanie's 'Madrugada' showcases solid songwriting and emotional delivery but lacks standout tracks for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The album opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and vocal harmony, establishing a reflective tone that persists throughout.
Melanie's vocal delivery often features a conversational style, allowing for emotional intimacy in tracks like 'I Think It’s Going to Rain Today.'
Several tracks incorporate subtle instrumental arrangements, such as strings and light percussion, enhancing the folk-country blend without overwhelming the vocals.
The sequencing places the cover of 'Wild Horses' at the midpoint, creating a pivotal moment that contrasts with the surrounding original compositions.

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

wave-like emotional fluctuations
heartfelt storytelling and melodies
late-night reflective moments
cathartic emotional resolutions

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer single-track playlists

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its emotional depth and unique interpretations, particularly 'Wild Horses'.
Career context: Released in January 1974, 'Madrugada' was Melanie's fourth studio album following her breakthrough with 'Brand New Key.' At this point in her career, she was solidifying her presence in the folk-pop scene, building on her previous successes while exploring deeper emotional themes and more complex arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Kacey Musgraves· Brandi Carlile· Sara Watkins