New Arrangement cover

New Arrangement

Jackie DeShannon · 1975

35 min · 11 tracks · pop music

A blend of soft rock and pop sensibilities that intertwines introspective lyrics with lush melodies and warm instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Bette Davis Eyes — This track stands out as a defining moment on the album, showcasing DeShannon's sharp lyrical wit and melodic flair that would later influence other artists.
  • →
    Let the Sailors Dance Start here — The opening track sets an inviting tone with its upbeat rhythm and vivid imagery, encapsulating the album's adventurous spirit.
  • →
    A New Arrangement — The title track reflects DeShannon's introspective side, weaving personal themes with a catchy chorus that makes it memorable.

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 album features solid songwriting and production but doesn't stand out significantly within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a bright, upbeat track that sets a mid-tempo pace, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Bette Davis Eyes' and 'Queen of the Rodeo.'
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo reflective vibes
  • introspective melodies for calm moments
  • suitable for afternoon relaxation
  • thoughtful lyrics for deep listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy party tracks
  • seek instant gratification tunes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Features 'Bette Davis Eyes,' pivotal for later recognition and influence.
Career context
When Jackie DeShannon released 'New Arrangement' in 1975, she was experiencing a resurgence in her career after the success of hits like 'Put a Little Love in Your Heart.' This album represented her first full-length release since her 1971 album 'Songs,' and it showcased her evolution as a songwriter and artist, blending contemporary sounds with her classic roots.
Stylistic neighbors
Mary Hopkin· Carole King· Linda Ronstadt

Tracklist

  • 1 Let the Sailors Dance Start here 4:00
  • 2 Boat to Sail 3:30
  • 3 Sweet Baby Gene 2:53
  • 4 A New Arrangement 3:16
  • 5 Over My Head Again 3:00
  • 6 Bette Davis Eyes 2:45
  • 7 Queen of the Rodeo 3:20
  • 8 I Wanted It All 2:48
  • 9 Murphy 3:11
  • 10 Barefoot Boys and Barefoot Girls 3:04
  • 11 Dreamin' as One 3:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata