Not Too Late cover

Not Too Late

Norah Jones · 2007

45 min · 13 tracks · blues

A soothing blend of jazz-inflected melodies and introspective lyrics that capture a sense of longing and reflection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Wish I Could Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Sinkin' Soon — This track features a catchy piano melody paired with lyrics that reflect a sense of despair and resignation, encapsulating the album's overarching themes.
  • →
    My Dear Country — In this song, Jones addresses political issues with poignant simplicity, blending her smooth vocal style with a heartfelt message that resonates strongly with listeners.
  • →
    Not Too Late — The title track serves as a reflective anthem about hope and renewal, showcasing Jones' ability to meld personal storytelling with universal sentiments.

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 blends soothing melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a cohesive yet varied listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the second half introduces more varied arrangements and slower tempos.
  • Many tracks utilize a soft piano backdrop, with subtle instrumentation that complements Jones' vocal delivery without overpowering it.
  • Several songs incorporate conversational lyrics that create an intimate atmosphere, often reflecting on personal themes of longing and introspection.
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 4/10

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, consistent energy levels
  • intimate, reflective listening moments
  • gentle background ambiance
  • thoughtful, contemplative moods

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Beloved by dedicated fans for its intimate sound and reflective lyrics.
Themes
political simplicity· personal renewal· piano-driven melancholy
Career context
When 'Not Too Late' was released in January 2007, Norah Jones was already an acclaimed artist following her breakout debut album, 'Come Away With Me,' which won multiple Grammy Awards. This album marked her third studio release, showcasing her continued evolution as a songwriter while exploring more personal themes in her music.
Stylistic neighbors
Madeleine Peyroux· Diana Krall· Sarah Jarosz

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • My Dear Country

    The verses directly address feelings of disillusionment towards the state of the nation amidst stirring imagery of loss.

Tracklist

  • 1 Wish I Could Start here 4:18
  • 2 Sinkin' Soon 4:38
  • 3 The Sun Doesn't Like You 2:59
  • 4 Until the End 3:56
  • 5 Not My Friend 2:54
  • 6 Thinking About You 3:20
  • 7 Broken 3:20
  • 8 My Dear Country 3:25
  • 9 Wake Me Up 2:46
  • 10 Be My Somebody 3:36
  • 11 Little Room 2:43
  • 12 Rosie's Lullaby 3:56
  • 13 Not Too Late 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata