Tell Me How You Really Feel
Courtney Barnett · 2018
37 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A candid exploration of vulnerability wrapped in jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that balance humor with melancholy.
Top tracks — play these first
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Nameless, Faceless — This track stands out for its sharp commentary on misogyny and societal expectations, delivering a powerful message through catchy melodies and incisive lyrics.
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Crippling Self Doubt and a General Lack of Self Confidence — The title encapsulates the song's raw honesty, as it delves into feelings of inadequacy with relatable wit and a driving rhythm that captures the struggle.
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I’m Not Your Mother, I’m Not Your Bitch — This track's punchy instrumentation pairs with defiant lyrics that challenge traditional gender roles, showcasing Barnett's bold narrative style.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album combines introspective lyrics with jangly guitars, showcasing Barnett's distinctive voice in alternative rock.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a mid-tempo track that sets a reflective tone, followed by a shift to more upbeat rhythms in the second and third tracks.
- Several songs feature conversational lyrics that blend humor and introspection, often addressing personal and societal themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- candid reflections on vulnerability
- humorous yet melancholic undertones
- short tracks for quick engagement
- thought-provoking themes of identity
- for introspective afternoons
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party vibes
- prefer instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on May 18, 2018, 'Tell Me How You Really Feel' is Courtney Barnett's second studio album, following her acclaimed debut 'Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit.' At this point in her career, Barnett had established herself as a significant voice in the indie rock scene, celebrated for her witty, observational songwriting and unique sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Julia Jacklin· Alvvays· Phoebe Bridgers
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Hopefulessness 4:48
- 2 City Looks Pretty 4:41
- 3 Charity 4:10
- 4 Need a Little Time 3:58
- 5 Nameless, Faceless 3:14
- 6 I’m Not Your Mother, I’m Not Your Bitch 1:50
- 7 Crippling Self Doubt and a General Lack of Self Confidence 2:48
- 8 Help Your Self 3:02
- 9 Walkin’ on Eggshells 4:01
- 10 Sunday Roast 4:44
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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