What makes This Land by Gary Clark Jr. notable?

'This Land' received critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone highlighting its exploration of racial tensions in America, leading to significant discussions around social justice. The title track not only charted highly but also became an anthem for protests, cementing Clark's role as a voice for change within the blues genre. When 'This Land' was released in January 2019, Gary Clark Jr. was emerging from a breakthrough period marked by his Grammy win for Best Contemporary Blues Album in 2014. This album served as his fourth studio release, showcasing his evolution as an artist who blends traditional blues with contemporary themes and sounds.

Who is This Land for?

This Land works well if you're into raw intensity with social themes, reflective moments of solitude and cathartic release through storytelling.

How many songs are on This Land?

This Land has 17 tracks, running approximately 72 minutes.

This Land

Gary Clark Jr. · 2019

72 min · 17 tracks · blues

A vibrant blend of blues, rock, and soul that confronts social issues with raw honesty and electrifying guitar work.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Land — The title track addresses systemic racism and personal experiences, melding powerful lyrics with an unforgettable riff that captures the album's spirit.
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What About Us — This song combines a catchy melody with pointed lyrics about societal neglect, showcasing Clark's ability to blend social commentary with accessible music.
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Pearl Cadillac — A poignant ballad that reflects on love and loss, it highlights Clark's soulful vocal delivery and emotional depth amidst the album's more upbeat tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album blends blues, rock, and soul while addressing social issues, showcasing strong guitar work and lyrical depth.

What we noticed

The title track opens the album with a strong, anthemic chorus that sets a confrontational tone for the following tracks.
Several songs feature extended guitar solos that showcase Clark's virtuosity, particularly in 'I Got My Eyes on You' and 'Dirty Dishes Blues'.
The album shifts between slower ballads and more upbeat tracks, with the pacing fluctuating notably around the mid-point.
Lyrically, many tracks address social issues directly, using vivid imagery and personal narratives to engage the listener.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

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

raw intensity with social themes
reflective moments of solitude
cathartic release through storytelling
late-night contemplation and reflection
dynamic shifts in emotional tone

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'This Land' was released in January 2019, Gary Clark Jr. was emerging from a breakthrough period marked by his Grammy win for Best Contemporary Blues Album in 2014. This album served as his fourth studio release, showcasing his evolution as an artist who blends traditional blues with contemporary themes and sounds.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Bonamassa· Keb' Mo'· John Mayer