Natural History cover

Natural History

I Am Kloot · 2001

43 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Melancholic melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a reflective soundscape that captures the essence of alternative rock's early 2000s.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    To You — This opening track sets the album's tone with its lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, establishing a personal connection that resonates throughout the record.
  • →
    Morning Rain — With its evocative imagery and subtle dynamics, this track encapsulates the band's ability to blend melancholy with beauty, showcasing their distinctive sound.
  • →
    Stop — This song stands out for its rhythmic complexity and lyrical depth, revealing an introspective side of the band that aligns with their narrative style.
  • →
    86 TV's — Delivering sharp social commentary through its clever lyrics, this track reflects the band's knack for merging storytelling with engaging melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and atmospheric production, establishing a solid identity for the band.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks utilize layered instrumentation, creating a rich soundscape that enhances the melancholic themes.
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
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

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

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • introspective, contemplative moods
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context
Natural History is I Am Kloot's debut album, released in March 2001 after years of local performances and demos. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the UK alternative rock scene, transitioning from underground acts to broader recognition.
Stylistic neighbors
The Delgados· Elbow· Doves

Tracklist

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

  • 1 To You 3:16
  • 2 Morning Rain 3:20
  • 3 Bigger Wheels 3:28
  • 4 No Fear of Falling 2:10
  • 5 Loch 4:33
  • 6 Storm Warning 3:59
  • 7 Dark Star 2:22
  • 8 Stop 3:56
  • 9 Sunlight Hits the Snow 2:44
  • 10 Twist 2:57
  • 11 86 TV's 2:55
  • 12 Because 7:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata