What makes Something Else Again by Richie Havens notable?

This album is notable for its poignant commentary on social issues during a turbulent time, particularly with tracks like The Klan, which addresses racial tensions. It helped establish Havens as not just a performer but also a cultural commentator, further influencing the folk and protest movements of the era. Released in early 1968, Something Else Again marked Richie Havens' third studio album following his breakthrough at Woodstock in 1969. At this point, he was solidifying his presence as a vital voice in the folk and soul genres, blending emotive storytelling with a distinctive guitar style.

Who is Something Else Again for?

Something Else Again works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, reflective moments of soulful warmth and engaging storytelling through vocal passion.

How many songs are on Something Else Again?

Something Else Again has 10 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Something Else Again

Richie Havens · 1968

43 min · 10 tracks · folk rock

Folk-infused soul meets socially conscious lyrics, creating an intimate yet powerful listening experience that resonates with the zeitgeist of the late '60s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Klan — A bold statement against racism, this track uses vivid imagery to confront societal injustices, making it a standout for its audacity and relevance.
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Maggie’s Farm — Havens' cover of Dylan's classic reinterprets the song through his soulful lens, showcasing his ability to blend traditional folk with contemporary themes.
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Somethin’ Else Again — The title track encapsulates Havens' introspective style and musical depth, reflecting on personal and collective struggles while maintaining a sense of hope.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk and soul elements with socially conscious lyrics, creating a distinctive sound for its time.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cover that features a prominent guitar riff, setting a rhythmic foundation for the following tracks.
Several songs incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the music.
The track 'The Klan' features stark, spoken-word verses that contrast with melodic choruses, emphasizing its social commentary.

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

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

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
reflective moments of soulful warmth
engaging storytelling through vocal passion
for contemplative afternoons

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 1968, Something Else Again marked Richie Havens' third studio album following his breakthrough at Woodstock in 1969. At this point, he was solidifying his presence as a vital voice in the folk and soul genres, blending emotive storytelling with a distinctive guitar style.
Stylistic neighbors: Tim Hardin· John Sebastian· Nick Drake