Time Machine cover

Time Machine

Alma · 2023

36 min · 13 tracks · pop music

A vibrant pop odyssey blending catchy hooks with introspective lyrics, capturing the bittersweet essence of youth and self-discovery.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Summer Really Hurt Us — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of heartbreak, juxtaposing upbeat instrumentation with deeply reflective lyrics about loss and emotional resilience.
  • →
    Everything Beautiful — Its infectious chorus and uplifting message of self-acceptance showcase Alma's knack for merging catchy pop sensibilities with meaningful content.
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    I Forgive Me — This song captures a moment of vulnerability as it delves into themes of self-forgiveness, highlighted by a minimalist arrangement that allows Alma's vocals to shine.
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    Time Machine — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's core theme of nostalgia and reflection, blending lush production with contemplative storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends catchy pop hooks with introspective lyrics, though it lacks standout production elements.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with strong rhythmic hooks, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
  • The lyrics often reflect personal experiences and self-discovery, creating a narrative thread that connects many of the songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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, consistent energy levels
  • short, impactful listening sessions
  • reflective moments of introspection
  • uplifting and empowering themes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on April 21, 2023, 'Time Machine' marks Alma's sophomore album, following her debut 'Have U Seen My Daughter?' from 2020. This release comes as she solidifies her presence in the pop landscape, showcasing her artistic evolution while navigating personal themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Tove Lo· Charli XCX· Muna

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • I Forgive Me

    The song features a pivotal moment where the narrator confronts past mistakes directly, expressing a desire for self-acceptance.

    This direct address shifts the tone from regret to empowerment, marking a crucial turning point in the narrative arc of the album.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Dreaming 2:27
  • 2 Everything Beautiful 2:19
  • 3 Tell Mama 2:50
  • 4 Summer Really Hurt Us 2:48
  • 5 Time Machine 2:50
  • 6 Natalia 2:48
  • 7 I Forgive Me 2:17
  • 8 Run Run Run 3:15
  • 9 The Cure 3:07
  • 10 Stupid People 2:15
  • 11 One in a Million 2:59
  • 12 I Will Survive 3:34
  • 13 Hey Mom Hey Dad 2:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata