Marc Cohn cover

Marc Cohn

Marc Cohn · 1991

45 min · 11 tracks · folk rock

A blend of reflective storytelling and melodic folk rock, steeped in evocative imagery and personal narratives.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Walking in Memphis — This track stands out as Cohn's signature song, intertwining vivid storytelling with a catchy melody that captures the essence of his journey.
  • →
    Silver Thunderbird — With its poignant lyrics reflecting themes of nostalgia and loss, this song showcases Cohn's ability to blend personal narrative with universal emotions.
  • →
    True Companion — This heartfelt ballad exemplifies Cohn's lyrical vulnerability, portraying deep love and commitment through rich imagery and emotional resonance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album features strong storytelling and melodic structures, though it follows familiar folk rock templates.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
  • Several songs incorporate rich storytelling elements, with lyrics that paint vivid images and personal narratives.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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, consistent energy levels
  • poignant storytelling moments
  • reflective, emotional listening experience
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context
Marc Cohn's self-titled debut album was released in 1991 after he spent years performing in various clubs across the U.S. The album marked his breakthrough, featuring a sound that combined folk rock with pop sensibilities, establishing him as a notable singer-songwriter.
Stylistic neighbors
James Taylor· David Wilcox· Glen Phillips

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Walking in Memphis 4:18
  • 2 Ghost Train 4:13
  • 3 Silver Thunderbird 4:38
  • 4 Dig Down Deep 5:08
  • 5 Walk on Water 4:02
  • 6 Miles Away 3:23
  • 7 Saving the Best for Last 5:35
  • 8 Strangers in a Car 2:47
  • 9 29 Ways 3:05
  • 10 Perfect Love 4:23
  • 11 True Companion 4:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata