Not Dark Yet cover

Not Dark Yet

Shelby Lynne · 2017

37 min · 10 tracks · folk music

A haunting blend of folk and pop, underscored by introspective lyrics and rich emotional resonance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    My List Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Not Dark Yet — This title track encapsulates the album's overarching themes of vulnerability and reflection, featuring a poignant melody that draws listeners into its emotional landscape.
  • →
    Into My Arms — This cover of Nick Cave's song stands out for its delicate arrangement and Lynne's heartfelt interpretation, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth.
  • →
    Lungs — With its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, this track exemplifies Lynne's exploration of personal struggles, resonating deeply with listeners seeking authenticity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth, with a cohesive flow despite some pacing shifts.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a mid-tempo pace, but the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
  • Several tracks feature sparse instrumentation, allowing Lynne's vocals and lyrics to take center stage without distraction.
  • The album closes with two tracks that gradually reduce in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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 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

  • reflective, introspective listening sessions
  • steady pacing for relaxation
  • gradual builds and resolutions
  • melancholic mood exploration

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases continued vitality and deeper personal themes in her later career.
Career context
Released in 2017, Not Dark Yet is Shelby Lynne's first studio album since her Grammy-winning work in 2000. At this point in her career, she was exploring deeper personal themes and a more stripped-down sound, marking a significant artistic evolution since her earlier mainstream success.
Stylistic neighbors
Lucinda Williams· Neko Case· Brandi Carlile

Tracklist

  • 1 My List Start here 2:52
  • 2 Every Time You Leave 2:23
  • 3 Not Dark Yet 4:19
  • 4 I’m Looking for Blue Eyes 2:57
  • 5 Lungs 2:54
  • 6 The Color of a Cloudy Day 4:03
  • 7 Silver Wings 2:34
  • 8 Into My Arms 4:47
  • 9 Lithium 5:38
  • 10 Is It Too Much 4:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata