Review of I Am Kloot's CD "Gods and Monsters"

I Am Kloot: Gods and Monsters

I Am Kloot are a stripped-down, intelligent slice of Manc attitude. This, their third LP sees them taking their winning formula of angular balladry into more brooding and questioning territory. Soft melodies are contrasted with cutting lyrics and a distinctive local twang, and there's always inventive percussive ideas to fill out the sound. My normal listening pattern is impatient and involves picking out my favourites, but I just haven't been able to do this with Gods and Monsters, it's such a delight as an entirety.

Highlights (if I must) being; "strange without you", a love song that sounds like it's chasing its tail, the blunt harmonies of "dead men's cigarettes", and the left of the middle idealism of album closer "I believe". I Am Kloot's debut "Natural History" was one of my favourite albums of 2002, and "Gods and Monsters" matches its quality without giving me time or inclination to flicker. Perfect music for people who hate perfection.

• www.iamkloot.com

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