Inanimate Objects cover

Inanimate Objects

Atlas Genius · 2015

41 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of melodic hooks and reflective lyrics wrapped in shimmering alternative rock textures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Molecules — With its infectious chorus and introspective lyrics, this track encapsulates the band’s knack for blending upbeat melodies with deeper emotional themes.
  • →
    Refugees — This song stands out for its poignant exploration of displacement and belonging, resonating with contemporary global issues through its engaging soundscape.
  • →
    Where I Belong — The anthemic quality of this track makes it a standout moment on the album, reflecting feelings of searching for identity and connection amidst uncertainty.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100
Foothills
Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more introspective tone with softer instrumentation.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Refugees' and 'Friends With Enemies'.
  • The album closes with 'Levitate', which shifts to a more upbeat tempo, contrasting with the reflective nature of earlier songs.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • atmospheric melodies for introspection
  • earworm hooks for sing-alongs
  • for afternoon drives

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced excitement
  • seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Inanimate Objects marks Atlas Genius's sophomore album, following their debut, When It Was Now, which had catapulted them to mainstream recognition in 2013. By this release in 2015, the band was solidifying their sound while navigating the pressures of a growing fanbase and industry expectations.
Stylistic neighbors
Young the Giant· Foster the People· Phoenix

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Stone Mill 3:39
  • 2 Molecules 4:32
  • 3 Stockholm 3:11
  • 4 Refugees 4:15
  • 5 A Perfect End 3:08
  • 6 Friendly Apes 4:10
  • 7 Friends With Enemies 3:47
  • 8 Where I Belong 3:59
  • 9 Balladino 4:00
  • 10 The City We Grow 3:51
  • 11 Levitate 3:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata