What makes The Holy Single by Kristin Hersh notable?

This album is notable for its exploration of spiritual themes through an alternative rock lens, influencing subsequent artists within the genre. It received critical praise that helped solidify Hersh's reputation as a significant figure in the 90s indie music scene, often cited in discussions about confessional songwriting and female-led rock. In 1995, Kristin Hersh was in a transitional phase following her work with Throwing Muses, having released her solo debut 'Hips and Makers' just a year prior. 'The Holy Single' served as a follow-up, showcasing her distinct voice and lyrical depth while marking her continued evolution as a solo artist.

How many songs are on The Holy Single?

The Holy Single has 4 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

The Holy Single

Kristin Hersh · 1995

11 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of alternative rock and folk elements, where introspective lyrics grapple with faith and personal struggle.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Jesus Christ — This track captures Hersh's ability to weave complex emotions into a brief yet impactful narrative about faith and doubt, setting the tone for the album.
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Amazing Grace — Hersh's reinterpretation of this classic hymn transforms it into a poignant reflection on grace and redemption, highlighting her unique vocal delivery.
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Sinkhole — This song exemplifies the darker undertones of the album, combining vivid imagery with a raw emotional intensity that resonates throughout her work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The EP blends alternative rock and folk with introspective lyrics, showcasing Hersh's unique voice and thematic depth.

What we noticed

The first track features a sparse arrangement with layered vocals that create a haunting atmosphere, while the second track is a reinterpretation of a traditional hymn.
The third track shifts to a more aggressive guitar-driven sound, contrasting with the introspective tone of the previous songs.
The final track incorporates elements of folk music, featuring acoustic instrumentation and harmonies that evoke a sense of community.

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: 8/10

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Jesus Christ 2:23
2 Amazing Grace 3:29
3 Sinkhole 3:14
4 Can the Circle Be Unbroken 2:50

What to play next

Listen next

Strange Angels

1998

Go back to

Hips and Makers

1994

Full Kristin Hersh discography Where to start with Kristin Hersh Artists like Kristin Hersh

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata