Corrs Albums Ranked: From Best to Least
The Corrs, the Irish sibling band known for their captivating blend of Celtic folk, pop, and rock, have gifted the world with a rich discography. Ranking their albums is a subjective task, sparking debates among devoted fans. However, considering critical reception, commercial success, and lasting impact, we can attempt a reasoned ordering, acknowledging that personal preference will always hold sway.
This ranking considers the overall cohesiveness of the album, the quality of songwriting, the originality of the sound, and the lasting impact on their career and the broader musical landscape.
1. Talk on Corners (1997): This is undoubtedly the Corrs' masterpiece and a defining album of the late 90s. "Talk on Corners" propelled them to international stardom, showcasing their mature sound and masterful blending of genres. Tracks like "What Can I Do?" and "Only When I Sleep" remain timeless classics, demonstrating their vocal harmonies and instrumental prowess. The album's success lies in its balance – it's accessible yet sophisticated, commercially viable yet artistically ambitious. Its influence can still be heard in contemporary folk-pop artists.
2. In Blue (2000): Building on the success of "Talk on Corners," "In Blue" saw the Corrs experimenting further, incorporating elements of world music and exploring a more mature songwriting style. While perhaps lacking the raw energy of their earlier work, the album boasts beautiful ballads like "Breathless" and "Radio," alongside powerful anthems like "Secret Garden." The production is polished and sophisticated, reflecting their growing confidence as artists.
3. Forgiven, Not Forgotten (1998): This album, while released quickly after their debut, solidified their success. It built upon the foundation laid by "Talk on Corners," refining their sound and expanding on their Celtic influences. Tracks like "Runaway" showcased their ability to craft catchy pop songs with a unique Irish twist. Its slightly more raw, less polished sound compared to later albums gives it a certain charm for fans who appreciate that unrefined energy.
4. Borrowed Heaven (2004): "Borrowed Heaven" marked a significant shift for The Corrs, incorporating more pronounced rock elements into their sound. While this change wasn't universally embraced by all fans, the album showcases the band's versatility and ambition. Tracks like "Summer Sunshine" and "Angel" highlight their ability to seamlessly transition between genres. While commercially successful, it felt a departure from their original sound for some.
5. White Light (2007): "White Light" represents a return to the band's more acoustic, folk-influenced roots. While containing some strong tracks, the album felt less cohesive and lacked the consistent brilliance of their earlier work. The production felt somewhat dated, and while it showed a desire to recapture their earlier magic, it ultimately fell short of achieving that.
6. Home (2005): A Christmas album, "Home" is a delightful collection of festive classics with the Corrs' signature harmonies. It's a charming and pleasant listen, particularly during the holiday season, but doesn’t represent their best work considering their overall body of work. It's a nice addition to a Christmas playlist, but lacks the overall artistic merit of their studio albums.
Conclusion:
The Corrs' musical journey is evident in their evolving sound across their albums. While personal preference will always influence individual rankings, this assessment considers critical acclaim, commercial success, and long-term impact. "Talk on Corners" remains a landmark achievement, defining their signature sound and establishing their place in music history. However, each album offers something unique and valuable, showcasing the talent and versatility of this exceptional Irish family band. Ultimately, the best Corrs album is the one that resonates most deeply with the individual listener.