What makes No Roots by Alice Merton notable?

No Roots gained critical acclaim and commercial success, charting in multiple countries and leading to Merton winning the European Border Breakers Award in 2018. The title track became a viral hit, further cementing her reputation and influencing a wave of contemporary pop artists. Released in early 2017, No Roots was Alice Merton's debut EP, following her breakthrough single of the same name. The EP marked a pivotal moment in her career, establishing her as a significant new voice in the indie music scene.

No Roots works well if you're into concise bursts of energy, infectious melodies for sing-alongs and introspective themes with punch.

How many songs are on No Roots?

No Roots has 5 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

No Roots

Alice Merton · 2017

16 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

An energetic blend of indie pop and alternative rock, characterized by catchy hooks and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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No Roots — The titular track served as Merton's breakout single, combining an infectious melody with themes of belonging and identity that resonate widely.
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Lash Out — This track showcases Merton's emotional range and lyrical depth, presenting a powerful narrative of frustration and empowerment against personal betrayal.
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Hit the Ground Running — With its upbeat tempo and motivational lyrics, this song captures the essence of resilience and determination, making it a standout on the EP.

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 EP showcases strong hooks and contrasts in tempo, marking Merton's emergence in indie music.

What we noticed

The title track opens with a driving beat and layered vocals, establishing an energetic tone that persists through the first three tracks.
The EP concludes with 'Lie to My Face', which shifts to a more subdued tempo and introspective lyrics, providing a contrast to the preceding tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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

concise bursts of energy
infectious melodies for sing-alongs
introspective themes with punch
morning commute pick-me-ups

Maybe skip if you

slow, drawn-out listening experiences
preference for lengthy albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 2017, No Roots was Alice Merton's debut EP, following her breakthrough single of the same name. The EP marked a pivotal moment in her career, establishing her as a significant new voice in the indie music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Muna· Chvrches· Of Monsters and Men