When You Know cover

When You Know

Dianne Reeves · 2008

53 min · 10 tracks · contemporary R&B

A lush blend of jazz and R&B, rich with emotive vocals and intricate arrangements that evoke timeless romance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me) — This track captures the essence of longing through Reeves' soulful interpretation, transforming the classic Motown hit into a poignant jazz ballad.
  • →
    Midnight Sun — Reeves' nuanced phrasing and dynamic control breathe new life into this standard, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions through simplicity.
  • →
    When You Know — The title track is a masterclass in storytelling, blending lush instrumentation with introspective lyrics that reveal the beauty of love's realization.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong vocal performances and arrangements but remains within familiar territory for its genre.

What we noticed

  • Dianne Reeves' vocal delivery is consistently emotive, often employing intricate phrasing and dynamic range that enhances the lyrical content.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • lush arrangements for romantic evenings
  • emotive vocals for intimate moments
  • patient unfolding of heartfelt stories
  • for cozy gatherings
  • reflective listening on quiet nights

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat party music
  • prefer fast-paced listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
When You Know was released as Dianne Reeves' fifth studio album, following her Grammy-winning album, Beautiful Life, in 2006. At this point in her career, Reeves had solidified her reputation as a leading voice in jazz, seamlessly integrating contemporary R&B elements into her sound. This album showcases her continued evolution as an artist while maintaining the high level of artistry expected from her.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me) 4:53
  • 2 Over the Weekend 5:24
  • 3 Lovin' You 5:29
  • 4 I'm in Love Again 4:45
  • 5 Midnight Sun 5:44
  • 6 Once I Loved 5:32
  • 7 The Windmills of Your Mind 5:15
  • 8 Social Call 4:18
  • 9 When You Know 6:45
  • 10 Today Will Be a Good Day 5:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata