Times of Our Lives
Judy Collins · 1982
40 min · 10 tracks · folk music
A reflective blend of folk melodies and poignant lyrics that capture the complexities of love and life transitions.
Top tracks — play these first
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Great Expectations Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its introspective lyrics exploring hopes and dreams, embodying the emotional core of Collins' storytelling.
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It's Gonna Be One of Those Nights — This song captures a sense of nostalgia and longing, showcasing Collins' ability to weave personal experiences into universal sentiments.
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Drink a Round to Ireland — A lively tribute that combines cultural storytelling with an infectious melody, reflecting Collins’ deep connection to her roots and heritage.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features strong storytelling and varied instrumentation, though it doesn't fully stand out in its genre.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- The instrumentation varies from solo piano to full arrangements, creating dynamic shifts in mood throughout the record.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 reflective moments
- poignant storytelling in each song
- for nostalgic evenings
- sing-along reflections with friends
Maybe skip if you
- seek instant gratification tracks
- prefer high-energy party music
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Deep Cut — A solid entry in her catalog, appreciated for lyrical depth but not widely recognized as a standout.
- Themes
- nostalgic storytelling· Irish heritage celebration· reflective life journey
- Career context
- By 1982, Judy Collins was an established figure in the folk music scene, having gained fame with her earlier works such as 'Wildflowers' in 1967. 'Times of Our Lives' marked a continued evolution in her sound, showcasing her ability to blend personal storytelling with broader themes amidst changing musical landscapes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Joan Baez· Linda Ronstadt· Carole King
Tracklist
- 1 Great Expectations Start here 4:05
- 2 The Rest of Your Life 4:10
- 3 Granddaddy 3:20
- 4 It's Gonna Be One of Those Nights 3:45
- 5 Memory 4:09
- 6 Sun Son 4:27
- 7 Mama Mama 4:17
- 8 Drink a Round to Ireland 3:31
- 9 Angel on My Side 4:35
- 10 Don't Say Goodbye Love 4:12
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Pink Moon
Nick Drake
Shares reflective storytelling and melancholic melodies that explore personal and existential themes.
Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
Combines folk, jazz, and poetic lyrics to capture life's transitions and emotional depth.
Songs of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
Delivers introspective lyrics and a haunting vocal style that resonate with life's complexities.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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