The Broken Wave
Hannah Peel · 2010
35 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A haunting blend of ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics that evoke a sense of longing and quiet reflection.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Almond Tree — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its delicate instrumentation and reflective lyrics, encapsulating the themes of nature and introspection.
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Don't Kiss the Broken One — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of vulnerability and emotional scars, using metaphorical language that resonates throughout the album.
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Cailín Deas Crúite Na Mbó — A traditional Irish song reimagined through Peel's lens, this track showcases her ability to intertwine cultural heritage with contemporary soundscapes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features atmospheric builds and emotional string arrangements, creating a distinctive yet cohesive sound.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a slow, atmospheric build with layered instrumentation that creates a sense of space.
- Several songs feature a prominent use of strings, which enhance the emotional weight of the melodies.
- The album closes with 'The Parting Glass', a traditional song that shifts the tone to a reflective farewell, contrasting with earlier tracks.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- haunting melodies for quiet reflection
- short contemplative listening moments
- introspective themes of longing
- gentle pacing for evening solitude
Maybe skip if you
- prefer upbeat, lively tracks
- seek high-energy experiences
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Upon the release of The Broken Wave, Hannah Peel was in the early stages of her solo career, having transitioned from her work with experimental music groups. This debut album serves as a significant introduction to her unique sound, showcasing her talent for blending alternative rock with folk influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bat for Lashes· Lana Del Rey· FKA twigs
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Almond Tree 3:17
- 2 You Call This Your Home 3:02
- 3 Song for the Sea 3:49
- 4 Today Is Not So Far Away 3:21
- 5 Don't Kiss the Broken One 3:06
- 6 Solitude 4:25
- 7 Unwound 2:59
- 8 Is This the Start? 3:02
- 9 Cailín Deas Crúite Na Mbó 4:28
- 10 The Parting Glass 3:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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