Some Loud Thunder cover

Some Loud Thunder

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah · 2007

46 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

A blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that dance between whimsy and melancholy, creating an eclectic sonic landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Satan Said Dance — This track stands out with its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, capturing the album's eclectic spirit while showcasing the band's knack for catchy hooks.
  • →
    Goodbye to Mother and the Cove — With its reflective lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation, this track encapsulates the emotional depth of the album, offering a poignant contrast to more upbeat songs.
  • →
    Mama, Won’t You Keep Them Castles in the Air and Burning? — This song exemplifies the band's unique blend of whimsical storytelling and rich melodies, creating a vivid auditory experience that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album's eclectic sound and experimental structures create a unique listening experience, though it lacks strong cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a title track that features layered vocal harmonies and a gradual build-up of instrumentation, setting a dynamic tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
  • The lyrics often juxtapose whimsical imagery with darker themes, creating a contrast that invites deeper reflection from the listener.
  • The final track is notably more subdued, featuring minimal instrumentation and a slow fade-out that leaves an impression of unresolved tension.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • whimsical melodies with introspective lyrics
  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • haunting atmosphere of joy
  • for reflective afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 29, 2007, Some Loud Thunder marked Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's sophomore effort, coming two years after their self-titled debut which garnered critical acclaim. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the pressures of maintaining momentum while facing the challenges of a rapidly evolving indie rock landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
The National· Arcade Fire· Vampire Weekend

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Some Loud Thunder 3:47
  • 2 Emily Jean Stock 4:00
  • 3 Mama, Won’t You Keep Them Castles in the Air and Burning? 4:27
  • 4 Love Song No. 7 4:31
  • 5 Satan Said Dance 5:32
  • 6 Upon Encountering the Crippled Elephant 1:13
  • 7 Goodbye to Mother and the Cove 5:37
  • 8 Arm and Hammer 2:00
  • 9 Yankee Go Home 3:32
  • 10 Underwater (You and Me) 5:18
  • 11 Five Easy Pieces 6:47

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata