Red Kite cover

Red Kite

Sarah Cracknell · 2015

37 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Melodic pop-folk textures blend with introspective lyrics, creating a soothing and reflective soundscape throughout the album.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    On the Swings — This track opens the album with a playful yet reflective tone, setting the thematic stage for the entire record.
  • →
    Underneath the Stars — With its lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, this song captures the essence of longing and introspection that permeates the album.
  • →
    I Am Not Your Enemy — This track stands out for its poignant message about reconciliation and understanding, showcasing Cracknell’s lyrical depth.

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 features introspective songwriting and a cohesive sound but lacks significant cultural footprint.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a gentle, mid-tempo pace with layered instrumentation before the fourth track introduces a more pronounced rhythm.
  • Several songs feature introspective lyrics that are complemented by soft vocal harmonies and melodic arrangements.
  • The album closes with two tracks that gradually reduce in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.
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 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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Nothing Left to Talk About

    The narrative shifts from reflection to acceptance of silence signifies emotional resolution.

    This transition highlights a turning point in the storytelling, emphasizing personal growth amidst relational complexities.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 On the Swings 3:51
  • 2 Nothing Left to Talk About 2:52
  • 3 In the Dark 3:53
  • 4 Ragdoll 3:02
  • 5 Underneath the Stars 3:15
  • 6 Hearts Are for Breaking 3:00
  • 7 Take the Silver 2:32
  • 8 The Mutineer 3:25
  • 9 I Close My Eyes 3:05
  • 10 It’s Never Too Late 2:46
  • 11 I Am Not Your Enemy 3:11
  • 12 Favourite Chair 2:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata