Is Not Too Far Away a good place to start with Joan Armatrading?

Yes, Not Too Far Away is recommended as a starting point for new Joan Armatrading listeners. A rich tapestry of introspective lyrics layered over melodic pop and rock, showcasing Armatrading's enduring vocal prowess. By the time 'Not Too Far Away' was released in 2018, Joan Armatrading had enjoyed a prolific career spanning over four decades. This album came as her first studio release since 'Starlight' in 2012, marking a return to her signature blend of personal storytelling and intricate melodies at a time when she was reflecting on her extensive musical journey.

Who is Not Too Far Away for?

Not Too Far Away works well if you're into steady mid-tempo comforting flow, heartfelt moments of reflection and ideal for quiet afternoons.

How many songs are on Not Too Far Away?

Not Too Far Away has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Not Too Far Away

Joan Armatrading · 2018

39 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A rich tapestry of introspective lyrics layered over melodic pop and rock, showcasing Armatrading's enduring vocal prowess.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Like It When We're Together Start here — This opening track captures the essence of connection and intimacy, setting the tone for the entire album with its warm melodies and reflective lyrics.
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No More Pain — In this song, Armatrading addresses themes of healing and resilience, underscored by a poignant vocal delivery that showcases her emotional depth.
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Always in My Dreams — This track stands out for its lush arrangement and evocative imagery, illustrating longing and nostalgia through vivid storytelling.

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 features strong songwriting and production but remains within familiar pop frameworks.

What we noticed

The album opens with a mid-tempo track that sets a reflective tone, and the following tracks maintain a similar pace with slight variations.
Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The last three tracks gradually shift to more introspective themes, creating a sense of closure as the album concludes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

steady mid-tempo comforting flow
heartfelt moments of reflection
ideal for quiet afternoons
gentle sing-alongs with friends

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Showcases Armatrading's continued relevance and artistry in her later career.
Career context: By the time 'Not Too Far Away' was released in 2018, Joan Armatrading had enjoyed a prolific career spanning over four decades. This album came as her first studio release since 'Starlight' in 2012, marking a return to her signature blend of personal storytelling and intricate melodies at a time when she was reflecting on her extensive musical journey.
Stylistic neighbors: Joni Mitchell· Laura Marling· Nick Drake