Sentimental cover

Sentimental

Tanita Tikaram · 2005

40 min · 10 tracks · folk music

A reflective blend of folk-pop melodies and intimate lyrics, evoking both warmth and melancholy throughout its runtime.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Something New Start here — This opening track introduces the album's introspective tone with a catchy melody and relatable lyrics about embracing change. Its engaging rhythm sets the stage for the emotional journey ahead.
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    My Love — A standout ballad, this song captures the essence of longing through its heartfelt lyrics and delicate instrumentation. It showcases Tikaram’s ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity.
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    Don’t Let the Cold — This track features evocative imagery that explores themes of vulnerability and connection. Its haunting melody complements the lyrics' exploration of emotional warmth amidst chilling circumstances.
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    Heart in Winter — With its melancholic undertones, this song encapsulates the album's overarching themes of love and loss. The poignant arrangement enhances the reflective nature of Tikaram's vocals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

49 /100
Foothills
Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album features reflective songwriting and strong vocal delivery but lacks standout moments that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
  • Several songs employ layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
  • The final track concludes with a soft fade-out, leaving an unresolved feeling that invites reflection.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • intimate reflective listening sessions
  • emotional storytelling through music
  • gentle melodies for relaxation
  • melodic explorations of love

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality with mature themes and critical attention in her later career.
Career context
Released in 2005, Sentimental is Tanita Tikaram's fifth studio album, following her 1998 release The Cappuccino Songs. At this point in her career, she was exploring more mature themes while retaining her signature storytelling style. The album marks a return to her roots after a period of relative quiet, showcasing a refined sound that aligns with her artistic evolution.

Tracklist

  • 1 Something New Start here 4:57
  • 2 Play Me Again 3:54
  • 3 My Love 4:05
  • 4 Don’t Shake Me Up 3:01
  • 5 Everyday Is New 4:57
  • 6 Love Is Just a Word 3:45
  • 7 Don’t Let the Cold 3:15
  • 8 Forever 3:41
  • 9 Got to Give You Up 3:55
  • 10 Heart in Winter 4:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata