Happenstance - Rachael Yamagata
Happenstance Image
Metascore
74 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critics What's this?

User Score
8.7 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 15 Ratings

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0 out of 10
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  • Summary: 'Happenstance' is the first solo LP for the Chicago-based singer-songwriter, who has also recorded with the funk band Bumpus.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    91
    She proves she can hold her own with the best of the distressed songstresses. [11 Jun 2004, p.123]
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  2. Stylus Magazine
    90
    Ms. Yamagata has moved beyond the slightly jazzy overtones of her debut EP to grandiose, ready-for-radio singer/songwriter pop for the ages.
  3. All Music Guide
    80
    It is an unabashedly lush, deeply textured pop record that makes no apologies for its radio-friendliness or its adornments.
  4. Rolling Stone
    60
    Evokes the singer-songwriter atmospherics of Carole King and Elton John. [24 Jun 2004, p.170]
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See all 15 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. ChesterC.
    10
    Love, love, love this debut album from Rachael Yamagata. From the first note of piano of "Be, Be Your Love" to the harmonious strings of "Quiet", this album exudes class and sophistication. The lyrics are amazingly beautiful too. Rachael Yamagata is a talent to be reckon with.… Expand
  2. AlexisB.
    10
    Really hard to describe the album, but "Impossibly Beautiful" fits very well...Rachael is one of those artists that you can relate to even if the song's got nothing to do with you. Perfect harmony between her voice, the never ending strings...too much emotion, feeling, romance all with a smoky voice...adore it!… Expand
  3. DarylL
    8
    Never has sadness sounded so good. Rachael's voice sounds so morose and soulful, yet not boring. amazing.
  4. ScottY
    6
    Higher quality pop. I'd consider owning it if the CD were at a discount.

See all 11 User Reviews

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