What makes This by Peter Hammill notable?

This album received positive critical reception for its lyrical depth and musical complexity, solidifying Hammill's standing as an influential songwriter. While it did not chart extensively, it has influenced contemporary artists within the progressive rock and art rock scenes who admire Hammill's unique approach to narrative and structure. By 1998, Peter Hammill was in a phase of artistic introspection, having established himself as a key figure in the progressive rock genre since the early '70s. This album followed his previous release, 'The Margin', showcasing a more stripped-down, intimate approach to songwriting that continued to evolve his sound.

This works well if you're into introspective melodies for deep thinking, haunting personal reflections throughout and quiet moments of emotional depth.

How many songs are on This?

This has 10 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

This

Peter Hammill · 1998

49 min · 10 tracks · rock music

A contemplative exploration of personal and existential themes through intricate melodies and Hammill's distinctive vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Unrehearsed — This track highlights Hammill's raw vocal intensity and intricate piano work, capturing the essence of spontaneity within structured composition.
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Since the Kids — The song juxtaposes personal reflection with broader generational themes, showcasing Hammill's ability to weave storytelling into his music.
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The Light Continent — As the longest track on the album, it serves as a culmination of Hammill's philosophical musings, blending poetic lyrics with dynamic musical shifts.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Hammill's lyrical depth and complex melodies, maintaining a strong emotional and musical coherence.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, contemplative track that sets a reflective tone, followed by a series of songs that alternate between mid-tempo and slower ballads.
Hammill's vocal delivery is often layered with harmonies, creating a rich texture that complements the intricate melodies throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 3/10

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

introspective melodies for deep thinking
haunting personal reflections throughout
quiet moments of emotional depth
patient pacing with rich narratives

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat, fast-paced tunes
prefer standalone tracks over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context: By 1998, Peter Hammill was in a phase of artistic introspection, having established himself as a key figure in the progressive rock genre since the early '70s. This album followed his previous release, 'The Margin', showcasing a more stripped-down, intimate approach to songwriting that continued to evolve his sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Van der Graaf Generator· Robert Wyatt· King Crimson