What makes Since I Saw You Last by Gary Barlow notable?

The album debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing Barlow's enduring popularity as a solo artist. It received positive reviews from critics, praising its lyrical depth and melodic craftsmanship, solidifying his reputation beyond his work with Take That. Since I Saw You Last marks Gary Barlow's first solo studio album in over a decade, following his previous release, Open Road, in 1997. At this time, Barlow was already an established figure in music as a member of Take That, experiencing a successful reunion and resurgence since their 2005 comeback. This album captures him at a pivotal moment where he fully embraces his solo artistry after achieving significant commercial success with the group.

Who is Since I Saw You Last for?

Since I Saw You Last works well if you're into heartfelt reflections on love, steady pacing for deep listening and emotional storytelling through melodies.

How many songs are on Since I Saw You Last?

Since I Saw You Last has 12 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Released 13 years ago this November

Since I Saw You Last

Gary Barlow · 2013

50 min · 12 tracks · pop music

An introspective collection of heartfelt ballads and upbeat anthems, blending classic pop sensibilities with contemporary production.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Let Me Go — This track features an infectious chorus that radiates optimism and showcases Barlow's ability to blend catchy pop melodies with personal storytelling.
→
Since I Saw You Last — The title track encapsulates the album's reflective nature, merging poignant lyrics with lush instrumentation that highlights Barlow's vocal range.
→
Dying Inside — This song stands out for its emotional rawness, with lyrics that delve into vulnerability and longing, demonstrating Barlow's songwriting prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends heartfelt ballads with upbeat anthems, showcasing solid craftsmanship but lacking standout uniqueness.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half shifts to slower ballads.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact.
The lyrics often reflect personal themes and introspection, with a focus on relationships and self-discovery.

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

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt reflections on love
steady pacing for deep listening
emotional storytelling through melodies
for quiet evenings
a cohesive melodic journey

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Since I Saw You Last marks Gary Barlow's first solo studio album in over a decade, following his previous release, Open Road, in 1997. At this time, Barlow was already an established figure in music as a member of Take That, experiencing a successful reunion and resurgence since their 2005 comeback. This album captures him at a pivotal moment where he fully embraces his solo artistry after achieving significant commercial success with the group.
Stylistic neighbors: Take That· Robbie Williams· Westlife