Record (Tracey Thorn album) cover

Record (Tracey Thorn album)

Tracey Thorn · 2018

35 min · 9 tracks · indie pop

Intimate synth-pop soundscapes combine with Thorn's soothing vocals, creating a reflective atmosphere that explores personal and social themes.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Queen — This track stands out for its bold lyrical exploration of female identity and empowerment, paired with an engaging melody that captures contemporary social issues.
  • →
    Sister — A poignant reflection on familial connections, this song features Thorn's emotive delivery and layered production that underscores the song’s themes of support and solidarity.
  • →
    Smoke — With its ethereal sound and contemplative lyrics, this track encapsulates Thorn's ability to evoke deep emotion while maintaining a subtle pop 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 combines intimate synth-pop with introspective lyrics, creating a cohesive yet accessible listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong lead single, 'Queen', which sets a reflective tone that continues through the next several tracks.
  • Each track features layered synths and minimalistic arrangements, allowing Thorn's vocals to remain at the forefront.
  • The lyrics often explore personal themes, with several songs featuring a conversational style that invites listener engagement.
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 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

  • steady flow with emotional peaks
  • introspective melodies for reflection
  • short tracks for quick sessions
  • poignant lyrics that resonate deeply

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek high-energy party anthems

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2018, Record marks Tracey Thorn's first solo album in seven years, following her collaborative work with Everything But The Girl. At this point in her career, Thorn was transitioning back to solo artistry after a hiatus, showcasing her evolution as both a vocalist and songwriter.
Stylistic neighbors
Beth Orton· Lana Del Rey· Fiona Apple

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Queen

    The bridge shifts into a powerful declaration of self-worth, contrasting societal expectations against personal pride.

    This pivotal moment not only elevates the song's message but also transforms it from personal affirmation into a collective anthem for empowerment.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Queen 4:17
  • 2 Air 3:03
  • 3 Guitar 2:33
  • 4 Smoke 4:10
  • 5 Sister 8:32
  • 6 Go 4:01
  • 7 Babies 2:33
  • 8 Face 3:40
  • 9 Dancefloor 2:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata