Maria cover

Maria

Jane Siberry · 1995

69 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A blend of ethereal pop and introspective folk, layered with Jane Siberry's haunting vocals and poetic lyricism.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    See the Child — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of childhood innocence and loss, encapsulated in Siberry's delicate vocal delivery against a minimalist instrumental backdrop.
  • →
    Goodbye Sweet Pumpkinhead — Here, Siberry combines whimsical imagery with profound themes of love and farewell, creating a haunting atmosphere that resonates throughout the album.
  • →
    Oh My My — Spanning over twenty minutes, this ambitious closing piece showcases Siberry's experimental edge and lyrical complexity, making it a fitting finale.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases unique songwriting and distinct vocal delivery, contributing to its lasting appeal within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with the title track, which features layered vocal harmonies and a slow build-up, setting a contemplative tone for the record.
  • Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as 'Goodbye Sweet Pumpkinhead,' which shifts between different musical themes.
  • The use of sparse instrumentation in tracks like 'See the Child' allows Siberry's vocals and lyrics to take center stage, creating an intimate atmosphere.
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
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • ethereal melodies for quiet moments
  • introspective listening during solitude
  • slow unfolding emotional landscapes
  • thoughtful reflections on life
  • long tracks for deep engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of upbeat tempos
  • prefer standalone quick hits

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1995, Maria is Jane Siberry's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 1993 record, When I Look Into My Life. At this point in her career, Siberry was known for her unique sound and lyrical depth, having already established a loyal fan base and garnered attention from the indie music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Lisa Germano· Fiona Apple· Tori Amos

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Maria 4:26
  • 2 See the Child 6:25
  • 3 Honey Bee 4:18
  • 4 Caravan 7:34
  • 5 Lovin’ Cup 3:41
  • 6 Begat Begat 6:36
  • 7 Goodbye Sweet Pumpkinhead 4:37
  • 8 Would You Go? 7:20
  • 9 Mary Had … 3:58
  • 10 Oh My My 20:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata