Happenstance
by Rachael Yamagata
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Jun 8, 2004
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 19 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 19
  3. Negative: 1 out of 19

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  1. MichelleP.
    Jul 9, 2004
    8
    Her songs are deep and smoky, and she reveals a simplicity in lyrics and complexity in arrangment that turn out to be an excellent marriage.
  2. JerryR
    Jan 22, 2006
    10
    amazing
  3. davidb
    Jul 22, 2004
    10
    Rachael has star quality not seen in years. True to herself and her music she can grasp you with the vibrating air and make you feel her happiness, sorrow, confusion, but best just being touched in your soul.
  4. KenS
    Dec 29, 2005
    9
    sultry voice, catchy tunes. really enjoyed this album
  5. DarylL
    May 28, 2005
    8
    Never has sadness sounded so good. Rachael's voice sounds so morose and soulful, yet not boring. amazing.
  6. fdgddfgdfgdgdfgddf
    Jan 22, 2007
    10
    bloddy good
  7. AlexisB.
    May 18, 2007
    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!
  8. ChesterC.
    Apr 15, 2008
    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.

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Under The Radar
    50
    There's just nothing that sets her apart from the bevy of female artists she holds as influences. [#7]
  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.
    Read full review
  3. Spin
    50
    Her songs are feeling like Jason Mraz's leftovers. [Jul 2004, p.110]
See all critic reviews »