Is Time Out of Mind a good place to start with Bob Dylan?

Yes, Time Out of Mind is recommended as a starting point for new Bob Dylan listeners. A brooding exploration of mortality set against a backdrop of bluesy Americana and hauntingly introspective lyrics. Released on September 30, 1997, 'Time Out of Mind' marked Bob Dylan's return to the spotlight after a seven-year hiatus since his last studio album, 'Under the Red Sky'. This period was significant as it reestablished him in the music scene during a time when his influence had waned, showcasing a mature artist navigating themes of love and loss.

Who is Time Out of Mind for?

Time Out of Mind works well if you're into haunting melodies for introspection, long tracks for deep reflection and melancholic themes of yearning.

How many songs are on Time Out of Mind?

Time Out of Mind has 11 tracks, running approximately 72 minutes.

Time Out of Mind

Bob Dylan · 1997

72 min · 11 tracks · blues

A brooding exploration of mortality set against a backdrop of bluesy Americana and hauntingly introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Love Sick Start here — Opening the album, this track encapsulates the haunting atmosphere and sets a tone of longing and disillusionment that permeates throughout the record.
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Not Dark Yet — This song poignantly addresses themes of aging and existential reflection, showcasing Dylan's ability to blend melancholy with rich imagery.
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Make You Feel My Love — A heartfelt ballad that has been covered by numerous artists, it highlights Dylan's lyrical prowess and emotional depth in expressing love's complexities.
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'til I Fell in Love With You — This track blends elements of nostalgia and regret, illustrating Dylan's mastery in crafting narratives that resonate with personal experience.
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Highlands — The closing track is an epic journey through storytelling, showcasing Dylan's unique narrative style while reflecting on life's mundane yet profound moments.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album's introspective lyrics and bluesy sound create a cohesive yet complex listening experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections, allowing for atmospheric build-up and reflection.
The lyrics often employ vivid imagery and metaphor, creating a narrative that unfolds gradually across the album.

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

haunting melodies for introspection
long tracks for deep reflection
melancholic themes of yearning
late-night solitude and contemplation
patient storytelling with emotional weight

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat, quick listens
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Revitalized Dylan's career after a hiatus, gaining critical acclaim and recognition.
Themes: mortality reflections· blues-infused longing· post-commercial revival
Career context: Released on September 30, 1997, 'Time Out of Mind' marked Bob Dylan's return to the spotlight after a seven-year hiatus since his last studio album, 'Under the Red Sky'. This period was significant as it reestablished him in the music scene during a time when his influence had waned, showcasing a mature artist navigating themes of love and loss.
Stylistic neighbors: Leonard Cohen· Neil Young· Johnny Cash