Love in the Time of Science cover

Love in the Time of Science

Emilíana Torrini · 1999

38 min · 11 tracks · indie pop

Dreamy melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a surreal landscape of indie pop and trip hop textures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dead Things — The haunting atmosphere and contemplative lyrics explore themes of loss and longing, encapsulating the album's emotional core while showcasing Torrini's vocal range.
  • →
    Wednesday's Child — This track combines whimsical melodies with poignant storytelling, making it a standout example of Torrini's ability to merge lightness with deeper themes.
  • →
    Unemployed in Summertime — With its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics about existential uncertainty, this track highlights the playful yet serious tone that permeates the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends dreamy melodies with trip hop elements, showcasing strong songwriting and production.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and textures.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a lush soundscape, particularly in 'Fingertips' and 'Telepathy'.
  • The use of electronic elements is prominent, with trip hop influences evident in the production style throughout the record.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • short, reflective listening sessions
  • whimsical and playful moods
  • gentle emotional exploration
  • introspective background ambiance
  • light, airy sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1999, Love in the Time of Science was Emilíana Torrini's debut album following her move to London. At this point, she was transitioning from her early career in Iceland to a broader international audience, showcasing her unique blend of musical styles and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Lisa Hannigan· Bat for Lashes· Fiona Apple

Tracklist

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

  • 1 To Be Free 3:23
  • 2 Wednesday's Child 3:52
  • 3 Baby Blue 4:03
  • 4 Dead Things 4:23
  • 5 Unemployed in Summertime 3:42
  • 6 Easy 3:19
  • 7 Fingertips 3:43
  • 8 Telepathy 4:00
  • 9 Tuna Fish 3:11
  • 10 Summerbreeze 3:43
  • 11 Sea People 1:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata