What makes This Time by Robert Cray notable?

'This Time' received positive reviews for its authentic blend of blues and soul, highlighting Cray's signature guitar style and songwriting prowess. The album helped maintain his presence in the blues scene, contributing to his reputation as a modern blues icon. By the time 'This Time' was released in 2009, Robert Cray had established himself as a significant figure in the blues genre, following his Grammy-winning album 'Take Your Shoes Off' from 1999. This record marked his return to the studio after a five-year gap, showcasing his continued evolution as a musician and songwriter.

Who is This Time for?

This Time works well if you're into steady mid-tempo grooves, heartfelt storytelling throughout and soulful melodies for relaxation.

How many songs are on This Time?

This Time has 9 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

This Time

Robert Cray · 2009

48 min · 9 tracks · blues

A soulful blend of blues, infused with heartfelt lyrics and smooth guitar work that embodies a classic Americana vibe.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Chicken in the Kitchen — Opening with a catchy groove, this track sets the tone for the album with its playful lyrics and infectious rhythm that captures Cray's signature sound.
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This Time — The title track features introspective lyrics paired with emotive guitar solos, illustrating Cray's talent for blending storytelling with musicality.
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Forever Goodbye — This poignant ballad showcases Cray's vocal depth and emotional resonance, making it a standout moment that reflects on themes of loss and farewell.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and skilled musicianship, maintaining a cohesive blues sound throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and prominent guitar solos, while the subsequent songs shift to slower, more reflective themes.
Each song typically follows a verse-chorus structure, with Cray's guitar work often taking center stage during instrumental breaks.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response elements between vocals and guitar, enhancing the blues tradition.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

steady mid-tempo grooves
heartfelt storytelling throughout
soulful melodies for relaxation
reflective mood for evenings

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'This Time' was released in 2009, Robert Cray had established himself as a significant figure in the blues genre, following his Grammy-winning album 'Take Your Shoes Off' from 1999. This record marked his return to the studio after a five-year gap, showcasing his continued evolution as a musician and songwriter.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Bonamassa· Keb' Mo'· Susan Tedeschi