When I Was Born for the 7th Time
Cornershop · 1997
54 min · 15 tracks · indie rock
An eclectic fusion of rock, Indian music, and witty social commentary that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Top tracks — play these first
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Brimful of Asha — This track not only became Cornershop's most successful single but also celebrates Bollywood culture through catchy melodies and clever lyrics. Its infectious groove captures the essence of the band's unique sound.
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Sleep on the Left Side — Opening the album, this track sets a laid-back tone while cleverly mixing traditional sounds with modern rock elements, inviting listeners into Cornershop's distinctive world.
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Funky Days Are Back Again — With its upbeat tempo and energetic vibe, this song reflects a sense of optimism and revival, encapsulating the spirit of the late '90s indie scene while highlighting Cornershop's diversity in sound.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic mix and witty lyrics create a unique listening experience, though cohesion dips due to its varied styles.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature unconventional instrumentation, such as sitars and tablas, creating a distinct sound that differentiates them from typical indie rock.
- The lyrics often contain social commentary delivered in a playful manner, with shifts in vocal delivery that keep the listener engaged throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- witty social commentary with nostalgia
- short bursts of playful energy
- road trip sing-alongs with friends
- eclectic mixes that surprise frequently
Maybe skip if you
- prefer lengthy, immersive albums
- want consistent pacing throughout
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When I Was Born for the 7th Time is Cornershop's third studio album, released in 1997 after the band gained attention with their previous work. This album marked a significant moment in their career, showcasing a deeper exploration of their South Asian heritage while maintaining their indie rock roots.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Beta Band· Gogol Bordello· Beastie Boys
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Sleep on the Left Side 4:06
- 2 Brimful of Asha 5:16
- 3 Butter the Soul 3:19
- 4 Chocolat 1:24
- 5 We’re in Yr Corner 5:47
- 6 Funky Days Are Back Again 3:40
- 7 What Is Happening? 2:15
- 8 When the Light Appears Boy 2:41
- 9 Coming Up 1:03
- 10 Good Shit 4:40
- 11 Good to Be on the Road Back Home Again 5:45
- 12 It’s Indian Tobacco My Friend 4:51
- 13 Candyman 3:49
- 14 State Troopers 3:07
- 15 Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) 2:28
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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