What makes Now the Day Is Over by The Innocence Mission notable?

This album showcases The Innocence Mission's ability to reinterpret classic songs, with their version of What a Wonderful World receiving notable praise for its delicate arrangement and emotional resonance. Critically, it was well-received, further cementing their reputation within the alternative folk scene and contributing to the resurgence of interest in their music among both old fans and new listeners. Released in 2004, Now the Day Is Over is The Innocence Mission's sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed album, Befriended, from 2003. At this stage, the band had solidified their signature sound, blending alternative rock with folk influences while maintaining a deeply introspective lyrical approach.

Who is Now the Day Is Over for?

Now the Day Is Over works well if you're into gentle lullabies for winding down, ideal for quiet evening reflection and soft melodies for peaceful moments.

How many songs are on Now the Day Is Over?

Now the Day Is Over has 13 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Now the Day Is Over

The Innocence Mission · 2004

30 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

Gentle melodies intertwine with soothing vocals, creating a serene atmosphere of nostalgia and reflection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What a Wonderful World — The band's interpretation transforms this classic into a hauntingly beautiful lullaby that emphasizes the wonder in everyday moments.
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Over the Rainbow — Their rendition captures a fragile hopefulness, evoking a sense of longing that resonates deeply with themes of innocence and dreams.
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Stay Awake — This track opens the album with its soothing melody and gentle harmonies, perfectly setting the tone for the reflective journey that follows.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album's gentle covers create a serene atmosphere, though it lacks significant original material.

What we noticed

The album features a series of covers and reinterpretations of classic songs, each arranged with gentle instrumentation and soft vocals.
Tracks often employ a slow tempo, creating a consistent, soothing atmosphere throughout the record.
Several tracks include instrumental interludes that serve as transitions between the vocal pieces, enhancing the overall flow.

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

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

gentle lullabies for winding down
ideal for quiet evening reflection
soft melodies for peaceful moments
tender soundscapes for cozy nights

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy engagement
prefer longer, expansive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2004, Now the Day Is Over is The Innocence Mission's sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed album, Befriended, from 2003. At this stage, the band had solidified their signature sound, blending alternative rock with folk influences while maintaining a deeply introspective lyrical approach.
Stylistic neighbors: Nick Drake· Red House Painters· Sufjan Stevens