Patty Griffin cover

Patty Griffin

Patty Griffin · 2019

56 min · 13 tracks · folk music

A reflective blend of folk melodies and poignant storytelling, showcasing Griffin's mature artistry and introspective lyricism.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Mama’s Worried — This opening track sets the tone with its haunting melody and explores themes of familial concern and vulnerability through vivid imagery.
  • →
    River — A beautifully crafted song that intertwines personal reflection with natural imagery, showcasing Griffin's ability to convey deep emotion through simplicity.
  • →
    Luminous Places — This track encapsulates the essence of nostalgia and longing, making it a standout example of Griffin's lyrical prowess and melodic sensibility.

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 production but remains within familiar folk territory.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent use of acoustic guitar and soft percussion, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered harmonies that build gradually, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
  • The last three tracks shift to more reflective themes with slower tempos, allowing for a contemplative conclusion to the album.
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 melodic progression throughout
  • introspective storytelling in lyrics
  • for quiet evenings
  • reflective moments of solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Patty Griffin released this self-titled album as her seventh studio effort after a five-year hiatus since 'American Kid' in 2013. The album marks a significant point in her career, as it reclaims her place in the singer-songwriter landscape with a focus on personal narratives and emotional depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Dar Williams· Neko Case· Brandi Carlile

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Mama’s Worried 3:23
  • 2 River 5:23
  • 3 Where I Come From 4:45
  • 4 Hourglass 3:24
  • 5 Had a Good Reason 3:20
  • 6 Bluebeard 5:07
  • 7 What Now 4:52
  • 8 Luminous Places 4:52
  • 9 Coins 3:46
  • 10 Boys From Tralee 3:49
  • 11 The Wheel 6:15
  • 12 What I Remember 3:26
  • 13 Just the Same 3:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata