Ripples
Ian Brown · 2019
42 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective journey blending melodic hooks with introspective lyrics, underscored by alternative rock and Britpop influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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First World Problems — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its biting commentary on modern life, delivered through catchy melodies and an engaging rhythm.
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It's Raining Diamonds — A standout moment that fuses personal reflection with universal themes of aspiration and loss, showcasing Brown's lyrical depth and melodic sensibility.
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Ripples — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, weaving together introspective lyrics and a haunting melody that lingers long after the song ends.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends familiar Britpop sounds with introspective themes but lacks standout moments.
What we noticed
- The first five tracks maintain a steady mid-tempo pace, while the last five introduce more varied rhythms and dynamics.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Breathe and Breathe Easy'.
- The album includes moments of spoken word interludes, which add a reflective quality to the overall narrative.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- 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
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
- reflective moments of introspection
- melodic hooks for sing-alongs
- late-night contemplative listening
- steady pacing for relaxed vibes
Maybe skip if you
- instant gratification seekers
- fans of high-energy tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Ripples is Ian Brown's first studio album since 2012's My Way, marking a return after a lengthy hiatus from solo work. At this point, Brown was navigating the complex legacy of his earlier band, The Stone Roses, while embracing a more personal songwriting style that reflects his evolving artistic vision.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Richard Ashcroft· The Charlatans· Doves
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 First World Problems 5:58
- 2 Black Roses 2:38
- 3 Breathe and Breathe Easy (The Everness of Now) 3:27
- 4 The Dream and the Dreamer 5:38
- 5 From Chaos to Harmony 4:02
- 6 It's Raining Diamonds 3:10
- 7 Ripples 3:44
- 8 Blue Sky Day 5:10
- 9 Soul Satisfaction 4:08
- 10 Break Down the Walls (Warm Up Jam) 4:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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