What makes Whispering Afraid by Shona Laing notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, with particular praise for Laing's lyrical depth and melodicism. It helped position her within the burgeoning singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s, influencing subsequent artists in New Zealand and beyond. Whispering Afraid is Shona Laing's debut album, released in 1973. At this time, she was establishing herself as a prominent artist in the New Zealand music scene, transitioning from local performances to international recognition. The album marked a significant step in her early career, showcasing her songwriting skills and vocal talent.

How many songs are on Whispering Afraid?

Whispering Afraid has 10 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Whispering Afraid

Shona Laing · 1973

38 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A blend of introspective lyrics and melodic pop arrangements creates a reflective soundscape that resonates with personal and social themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Whispering Afraid — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, addressing themes of vulnerability and fear.
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Is Anything Ever Everlasting — This track stands out due to its contemplative exploration of impermanence, highlighted by Laing's poignant delivery and intricate arrangements.
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Show Your Love — A vibrant contrast to more subdued tracks, this song showcases Laing's ability to blend upbeat melodies with heartfelt lyrics about connection and affection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album features introspective lyrics and melodic arrangements, establishing Laing's voice in the early singer-songwriter movement.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's dynamic.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic quality of the arrangements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 1905 3:27
2 Lady Dipton 2:29
3 You Are the One 3:34
4 Whispering Afraid 4:16
5 Quiet Night 4:11
6 Show Your Love 3:33
7 If Only 3:36
8 Like Days Gone Before 3:02
9 Is Anything Ever Everlasting 4:57
10 Masquerade 5:30

What to play next

Listen next

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pop music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata