Philosophers, Poets & Kings
Kate Rusby · 2019
51 min · 12 tracks · folk music
A rich tapestry of contemporary folk woven with emotive storytelling and traditional melodies that resonate deeply with listeners.
Top tracks — play these first
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Jenny — This track opens the album with haunting vocals and poignant lyrics that encapsulate themes of love and longing, setting a reflective tone for the rest of the project.
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Philosophers, Poets & Kings — The title track interweaves historical references with contemporary relevance, showcasing Rusby's lyrical prowess and ability to connect past and present narratives.
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Crazy Man Michael — Rusby’s rendition of this traditional ballad breathes new life into an old tale, illustrating her skill in blending classic folk elements with modern sensibility.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and craftsmanship but remains within familiar folk territory.
What we noticed
- The instrumentation often includes acoustic guitar, fiddle, and piano, creating a warm and inviting sound throughout the record.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- evocative storytelling with warmth
- sunset gatherings with friends
- gentle rhythms for reflection
- heartfelt vocals for intimate moments
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy tracks
- prefer standalone singles only
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on May 17, 2019, 'Philosophers, Poets & Kings' is Kate Rusby's first studio album since her 2016 release 'Life in a Paper Boat'. This album continues to showcase her growth as a folk artist while reflecting her established reputation within the UK folk music scene, built over two decades of consistent output and performances.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Laura Marling· Sophie Hunger· Nina Nastasia
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Until Morning
The perspective shifts from hopefulness to resignation as night falls brings a palpable tension to the song's emotional landscape.
This structural choice deepens the narrative complexity, contrasting initial optimism with an impending sense of loss.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Jenny 4:38
- 2 Bogey's Bonnie Belle 4:24
- 3 Philosophers, Poets & Kings 4:26
- 4 Until Morning 4:26
- 5 Crazy Man Michael 4:57
- 6 Don't Go Away 4:13
- 7 The Squire and the Parson 3:41
- 8 The Wanderer 3:38
- 9 Farmer's Toast 4:23
- 10 As the Lights Go Out 3:46
- 11 Jenny (Ordinary remix) 4:31
- 12 Halt the Wagons 4:52
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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