What makes I See Seaweed by The Drones notable?

This album received widespread critical acclaim, solidifying The Drones' reputation as one of Australia’s most innovative bands. It was nominated for the 2013 Australian Music Prize and showcased their ability to merge poetic lyrics with raw, powerful instrumentation, influencing a wave of Australian alternative rock artists. By the time 'I See Seaweed' was released in 2013, The Drones were already an established band in the Australian music scene, following their acclaimed album 'Gala Mill' from 2006. This record marked a continuation of their exploration into darker themes and complex musical structures, showcasing their evolution as a band unafraid to challenge conventional rock norms.

How many songs are on I See Seaweed?

I See Seaweed has 8 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

I See Seaweed

The Drones · 2013

52 min · 8 tracks · alternative rock

A claustrophobic blend of dissonant guitars and haunting vocals that evokes a sense of unease and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I See Seaweed — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic depth, merging vivid imagery with a relentless sonic intensity that sets the tone for the entire record.
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They’ll Kill You — This track's driving rhythm and urgent vocals reflect a sense of impending doom, making it a standout moment that captures the album's overall tension.
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A Moat You Can Stand In — The song juxtaposes serene melodies with dark lyrical content, illustrating the band's knack for blending contrasting elements effectively.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of dissonance and introspective lyrics creates a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features layered, dissonant guitar riffs and a steady, driving rhythm that sets a tense atmosphere.
Vocals are often delivered in a spoken style, creating an unsettling contrast with the chaotic instrumentation.
Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo shifts, such as 'They’ll Kill You,' which transitions from a slow build to an explosive climax.
The final track ends on a quiet note, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of unresolved tension.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

How to See Through Fog

There is a moment where the narrative shifts from personal reflection to broader societal commentary through fragmented thoughts.

This shift in perspective enhances the emotional weight of the song, allowing listeners to connect individual experiences to a larger context.

Tracklist

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

1 I See Seaweed 8:34
2 How to See Through Fog 4:12
3 They’ll Kill You 6:05
4 A Moat You Can Stand In 4:22
5 Nine Eyes 7:12
6 The Grey Leader 6:15
7 Laika 6:20
8 Why Write a Letter That You’ll Never Send 9:17

What to play next

Listen next

A Thousand Mistakes: Warehouse Sessions

2015

Go back to

Havilah

2008

Full The Drones discography Artists like The Drones

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata