What makes She Cries Your Name by Beth Orton notable?

This album garnered critical acclaim, landing Orton on the map as a defining voice in the burgeoning folktronica genre. It received significant praise from publications like NME and The Guardian, where it was noted for its innovative sound, influencing a wave of artists blending acoustic and electronic music in the late '90s. Upon the release of She Cries Your Name in September 1996, Beth Orton was transitioning from her early career as a backing vocalist to establishing her own identity as a solo artist. This debut album followed her collaboration on the track 'Water From a Vine Leaf' with William Orbit, marking her entry into the limelight and setting the stage for her unique sound that blends folk and electronic influences.

How many songs are on She Cries Your Name?

She Cries Your Name has 4 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

She Cries Your Name

Beth Orton · 1996

18 min · 4 tracks · indie rock

A delicate fusion of folk and electronic elements, layered with introspective lyrics and ethereal melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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She Cries Your Name — The title track encapsulates Orton’s signature style, combining haunting vocals with a minimalistic arrangement that highlights emotional depth and vulnerability.
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It's Not the Spotlight — This track showcases Orton's lyrical prowess, exploring themes of fame and personal authenticity through a reflective and melodic structure that resonates deeply.
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Tangent — With its intricate layering of sounds and introspective lyrics, this song exemplifies Orton’s ability to merge diverse musical elements while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The record blends folk and electronic sounds effectively, showcasing Orton's unique style within its genre.

What we noticed

The title track features a gradual build-up of layered vocals and instrumentation, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
The final track concludes with a fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of introspection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single established Beth Orton's reputation in the folktronica genre.
Themes: intimate reflections· fame's isolation· ethereal landscapes
Career context: Upon the release of She Cries Your Name in September 1996, Beth Orton was transitioning from her early career as a backing vocalist to establishing her own identity as a solo artist. This debut album followed her collaboration on the track 'Water From a Vine Leaf' with William Orbit, marking her entry into the limelight and setting the stage for her unique sound that blends folk and electronic influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Fiona Apple· Lana Del Rey· Imogen Heap