Only the Names Have Been Changed cover

Only the Names Have Been Changed

Kelly Jones · 2007

34 min · 10 tracks · rock music

An introspective collection of melodic rock ballads that weave personal narratives with a tender vocal delivery.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Suzy — Opening with an evocative melody, this track sets the tone for the album's narrative approach, blending storytelling with emotional depth.
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    Liberty — The song captures a sense of yearning and freedom, showcasing Jones' ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet poignant lyrics.
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    Jayne — This track features a compelling build-up that culminates in a powerful chorus, reflecting the album's exploration of personal relationships and struggles.
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    Katie — With its gentle instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, this song highlights the album’s thematic focus on love and loss, making it memorable.

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 melodic focus and personal lyrics create an engaging yet familiar listening experience.

What we noticed

  • Most tracks are structured around simple verse-chorus forms, allowing the lyrical narratives to take center stage without complex arrangements overshadowing them.
  • Several songs incorporate subtle backing harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lead vocals, particularly in the choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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
8/10

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

  • melodic storytelling with personal touch
  • intimate moments of quiet introspection
  • tender vocal delivery for connection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, high-energy tracks
  • want lengthy, sprawling compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2007, Only the Names Have Been Changed marked Kelly Jones' first solo effort after disbanding the popular group Stereophonics. At this point in his career, Jones was transitioning from his established band identity into a more personal and reflective solo artist, aiming to explore themes beyond the band's typical sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Stereophonics· Richard Ashcroft· The Verve

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Suzy 5:09
  • 2 Rosie 3:10
  • 3 Liberty 4:06
  • 4 Katie 3:39
  • 5 Violet 1:56
  • 6 Jayne 5:02
  • 7 Misty 1:26
  • 8 Emily 3:29
  • 9 Jean 3:26
  • 10 Summer 3:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata