Shawn Mendes cover

Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes · 2018

44 min · 14 tracks · pop music

A polished blend of pop and folk influences, showcasing introspective lyrics over catchy melodies and vibrant production.

Top tracks — play these first

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    In My Blood Start here — This opening track encapsulates the album's emotional depth, addressing themes of anxiety and vulnerability with an anthemic chorus that resonates widely.
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    Lost in Japan — With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics about longing and desire, this song highlights Mendes' ability to blend catchy hooks with relatable storytelling.
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    Youth — Featuring Khalid, this collaboration tackles themes of resilience and hope amidst adversity, becoming an anthem for many young listeners during its release.
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    Where Were You in the Morning? — This track showcases Mendes' skillful storytelling through its narrative about fleeting romance, delivered with a catchy melody that enhances its appeal.

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 showcases strong songwriting and production but follows familiar pop templates.

What we noticed

  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
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
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo listening experience
  • introspective moments of reflection
  • emotive vocals for emotional connection
  • ideal for casual hangouts
  • easy sing-along participation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified Mendes' status as a mature artist in pop music.
Career context
Released as Shawn Mendes' self-titled third studio album, this record marked a significant moment in his career as he transitioned from teenage heartthrob to a more mature artist. Following the commercial success of his previous albums, this release was particularly notable for its deeper lyrical exploration and artistic autonomy.
Stylistic neighbors
Ed Sheeran· James Bay· Charlie Puth

Tracklist

  • 1 In My Blood Start here 3:31
  • 2 Nervous 2:44
  • 3 Lost in Japan 3:21
  • 4 Where Were You in the Morning? 3:20
  • 5 Like to Be You 2:39
  • 6 Fallin’ All in You 3:55
  • 7 Particular Taste 2:55
  • 8 Why 3:58
  • 9 Because I Had You 2:22
  • 10 Queen 3:24
  • 11 Youth 3:10
  • 12 Mutual 2:28
  • 13 Perfectly Wrong 3:32
  • 14 When You’re Ready 2:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata