I Was / I Am
Noah Kahan · 2021
36 min · 10 tracks
A heartfelt blend of folk-pop melodies and introspective lyrics that explore the complexities of personal growth and identity.
Top tracks — play these first
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Animal — This track captures the tension between vulnerability and strength, showcasing Kahan's signature melodic hooks and introspective lyricism.
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Fear of Water — Here, Kahan confronts anxiety with poignant imagery, creating an atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners navigating similar fears.
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Hollow — In this track, Kahan's raw vocal delivery amplifies themes of emptiness and longing, making it a standout representation of the album's emotional core.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album effectively blends folk-pop elements with introspective themes, showcasing Kahan's growth as a songwriter.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks build momentum with upbeat tempos and layered instrumentation, while the fourth track shifts to a more subdued arrangement.
- Several songs feature a recurring motif of introspective lyrics that reflect on personal experiences, often paired with folk-inspired melodies.
- The album closes with two tracks that gradually lower the energy, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- intimate storytelling through melodies
- reflective moments for quiet thinking
- short tracks for quick sessions
- melodic hooks that linger
- cathartic releases of emotion
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party vibes
- prefer standalone hit singles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- I Was / I Am is Noah Kahan's sophomore album, following his debut, Busyhead, released in 2019. At this juncture, Kahan had gained recognition for his storytelling ability and emotional depth, which he further explores in this follow-up, marking a significant evolution in his sound and lyrical themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Maggie Rogers· Vance Joy· Hozier
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Part of Me 3:59
- 2 Animal 3:39
- 3 Caves 3:21
- 4 Bad Luck 3:11
- 5 Godlight 4:07
- 6 Someone Like You 3:06
- 7 Fear of Water 2:51
- 8 Hollow 4:32
- 9 Bury Me 3:14
- 10 Howling 4:45
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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