I Want to Be a Clone cover

I Want to Be a Clone

Steve Taylor · 1983

17 min · 6 tracks · Christian alternative rock

A sharp and satirical blend of alternative rock with biting lyrics that critique conformity and consumerism in a Christian context.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Want to Be a Clone — This title track encapsulates the album's core message, using humor and irony to critique societal pressures toward conformity while simultaneously engaging listeners with its catchy melody.
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    Whatever Happened to Sin? — This track stands out through its provocative questioning of moral standards in society, blending sharp lyrics with a compelling melody that keeps listeners contemplating long after it ends.
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    Written Guarantee — Incorporating a mix of satire and personal reflection, this song uses clever wordplay to discuss faith and assurance, showcasing Taylor's knack for merging profound themes with accessible music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album's sharp lyrics and energetic sound create a distinct voice in the Christian alternative rock genre.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a driving rhythm and repetitive chorus that emphasizes its critique of conformity.
  • Lyrically, the tracks often employ irony and satire, directly addressing societal norms within a Christian framework.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • sharp satirical commentary on conformity
  • quick bursts of energetic tracks
  • playful irreverence with biting wit
  • for short attention spans

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer long, immersive experiences
  • seek serious, reflective moods

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1983, I Want to Be a Clone was Steve Taylor's debut album, marking his entry into the Christian alternative rock scene. At this point, Taylor was transitioning from a budding songwriter to a prominent figure within contemporary Christian music, leveraging wit and social commentary to engage listeners.
Stylistic neighbors
Daniel Amos· The Choir· Lost Dogs

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Steeplechase 1:28
  • 2 I Want to Be a Clone 2:32
  • 3 Whatever Happened to Sin? 3:15
  • 4 Written Guarantee 2:38
  • 5 Bad Rap (Who You Tryin’ to Kid, Kid?) 3:02
  • 6 Whatcha Gonna Do When Your Number’s Up? 4:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata