What makes Is It? by Ben Howard notable?

Upon its release, 'Is It?' received significant attention for its introspective themes and innovative soundscapes, quickly entering the UK Albums Chart at number 5. Critics praised Howard's ability to weave complex emotions into accessible melodies, reaffirming his position within the contemporary folk scene and influencing emerging artists seeking to blend traditional elements with modern sensibilities. By the time 'Is It?' was released in June 2023, Ben Howard had already established himself as a prominent figure in folk music, following his successful albums like 'Collections from the Whiteout' in 2021. This release marks his return to form after a brief hiatus and showcases an evolution in both songwriting and production approach, emphasizing a more experimental sound while retaining his signature lyrical depth.

Is It? works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective flow, yearning melodies for introspection and for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on Is It??

Is It? has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Is It?

Ben Howard · 2023

42 min · 10 tracks · folk music

A reflective journey of intertwined melodies and introspective lyrics, blending folk rock with delicate instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Couldn’t Make It Up — Opening the album with a blend of ethereal soundscapes and poignant lyrics, this track sets the tone for Howard's introspective journey throughout the record.
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Days of Lantana — This song stands out with its intricate guitar work and vivid imagery, illustrating Howard's knack for painting emotional landscapes through storytelling.
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Spirit — The track showcases Howard's vocal prowess and emotional range, combining atmospheric sounds with a message of resilience that resonates deeply.
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Walking Backwards — With its haunting melody and reflective lyrics, this track encapsulates the theme of looking back at life's moments while moving forward.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk rock with electronic elements, showcasing strong songwriting and production choices.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent use of layered acoustic guitar melodies, while the second half introduces more electronic elements and ambient textures.
The final track ends on a sustained note, leaving a lingering sense of introspection that contrasts with the more upbeat earlier songs.

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

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

steady mid-tempo reflective flow
yearning melodies for introspection
for evening relaxation
thoughtful lyrics for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer upbeat party vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Is It?' was released in June 2023, Ben Howard had already established himself as a prominent figure in folk music, following his successful albums like 'Collections from the Whiteout' in 2021. This release marks his return to form after a brief hiatus and showcases an evolution in both songwriting and production approach, emphasizing a more experimental sound while retaining his signature lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors: James Vincent McMorrow· Hozier· Nick Mulvey