Undress cover

Undress

Jesca Hoop · 2014

44 min · 10 tracks · traditional folk music

Haunting melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a tapestry of delicate folk and experimental sounds.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Murder of Birds — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its ethereal soundscapes and evocative storytelling, drawing listeners into Hoop's world.
  • →
    Angel Mom — Exploring the complexities of motherhood and loss, this track stands out for its emotional depth and haunting arrangement, becoming a fan favorite.
  • →
    Whispering Light — Brimming with delicate harmonies and intricate instrumentation, this track exemplifies Hoop's ability to blend vulnerability with artistic sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional folk with experimental elements, showcasing strong songwriting and unique arrangements.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich, atmospheric soundscape.
  • The album closes with a gradual decrescendo, where the final track fades out on a soft, unresolved chord.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • haunting melodies with introspective themes
  • delicate soundscapes for quiet moments
  • thoughtful reflections during solitude
  • emotional depth in lyrical content

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced music
  • want straightforward, catchy tunes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2014, Undress is Jesca Hoop's third studio album, following her breakthrough record The House That Jack Built. At this point in her career, she had begun to cultivate a distinctive sound that merges traditional folk with avant-garde elements, solidifying her place within the indie music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Laura Marling· Sufjan Stevens· Nick Mulvey

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Murder of Birds 4:52
  • 2 The Kingdom 3:24
  • 3 Whispering Light 4:04
  • 4 Four Dreams 4:38
  • 5 Bed Across the Sea 4:06
  • 6 Feast of the Heart 3:46
  • 7 Tulip 5:23
  • 8 Hurting My Dress 4:44
  • 9 Angel Mom 5:29
  • 10 While You Were Away 3:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata