What makes The Story by Brandi Carlile notable?

The Story received widespread acclaim upon release, with its title track becoming a defining song in Carlile's career and featuring prominently in various media, including TV shows. It also contributed to her growing fan base, peaking at number 20 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart and earning her a place in the contemporary folk-rock movement. Released as Brandi Carlile's second studio album in 2007, The Story followed her self-titled debut from 2005. At this point in her career, she was beginning to establish herself as a significant voice in the folk and rock scenes, garnering attention for her songwriting and vocal prowess.

Who is The Story for?

The Story works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling throughout journey, wave-like pacing with emotional peaks and intimate moments for quiet reflection.

How many songs are on The Story?

The Story has 13 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

The Story

Brandi Carlile · 2007

52 min · 13 tracks · pop rock

A blend of heartfelt storytelling and rich melodies, driven by Carlile's powerful vocals and acoustic instrumentation.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
The Story — This track embodies Carlile's signature style with its emotive lyrics and soaring chorus, making it an anthem of resilience and self-discovery.
→
Turpentine — This song showcases Carlile’s raw vocal power and intricate storytelling, reflecting on themes of love and vulnerability that resonate throughout the album.
→
Cannonball — With its infectious energy and compelling narrative, this track captures the essence of personal liberation and emotional depth that defines the album.
→
Wasted — This poignant ballad highlights Carlile's ability to convey heartbreak through vivid imagery and haunting melodies, emphasizing the album's emotional core.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and vocal performances, though it follows familiar pop rock structures.

What we noticed

The title track features a gradual build-up, starting with soft instrumentation and culminating in a powerful vocal climax.
Several tracks incorporate layered harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The album maintains a consistent acoustic sound, with most songs featuring guitar-driven arrangements and minimal electronic elements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
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 storytelling throughout journey
wave-like pacing with emotional peaks
intimate moments for quiet reflection
dynamic shifts in mood and

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid long, cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album established Carlile's reputation and featured a defining track.
Career context: Released as Brandi Carlile's second studio album in 2007, The Story followed her self-titled debut from 2005. At this point in her career, she was beginning to establish herself as a significant voice in the folk and rock scenes, garnering attention for her songwriting and vocal prowess.
Stylistic neighbors: The Civil Wars· Sara Bareilles· Kacey Musgraves