What makes Monkey on My Shoulder by James Blunt notable?

This album is significant for continuing Blunt's commercial success, reaching high positions on charts worldwide, including a top ten spot in the UK Albums Chart. Critics noted its introspective lyricism and sound as a defining aspect of the mid-2000s soft rock wave, contributing to Blunt’s reputation as a poignant songwriter. Released in January 2006, 'Monkey on My Shoulder' followed James Blunt's breakthrough debut 'Back to Bedlam,' which launched him into international fame. At this point in his career, Blunt was solidifying his presence in the soft rock genre, building on the success of hits like 'You're Beautiful' and exploring deeper emotional themes.

Who is Monkey on My Shoulder for?

Monkey on My Shoulder works well if you're into short emotional storytelling arcs, introspective moments for reflection and heartfelt melodies for quiet times.

How many songs are on Monkey on My Shoulder?

Monkey on My Shoulder has 5 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Monkey on My Shoulder

James Blunt · 2006

16 min · 5 tracks · blues

Soft rock melodies intertwine with blues-inflected storytelling, creating an intimate atmosphere throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Goodbye My Lover — This track showcases Blunt's signature emotional vulnerability, weaving a narrative of love and loss that resonates deeply with listeners.
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High — In 'High,' Blunt captures the essence of longing and reflection through haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, marking it as a standout moment on the album.
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Cry — Opening the album, 'Cry' sets a tone of introspection and emotional depth, highlighting Blunt's skillful songwriting and vocal delivery.

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 EP showcases solid songwriting and production but remains within familiar soft rock territory.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the last two slow down significantly, creating a noticeable shift in energy.
Each track features a prominent acoustic guitar presence, often accompanied by soft piano and strings, enhancing the intimate feel.
Lyrically, the songs focus on personal themes of love and loss, with storytelling that unfolds gradually across the EP.

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

short emotional storytelling arcs
introspective moments for reflection
heartfelt melodies for quiet times
cathartic release during solitude

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat party anthems
seek longer listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry that continues his sound without being a standout in his catalog.
Career context: Released in January 2006, 'Monkey on My Shoulder' followed James Blunt's breakthrough debut 'Back to Bedlam,' which launched him into international fame. At this point in his career, Blunt was solidifying his presence in the soft rock genre, building on the success of hits like 'You're Beautiful' and exploring deeper emotional themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Damien Rice· Ed Sheeran· John Mayer