Description
Ben Howard – Is It? – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Is It? is the fifth studio album by British singer-songwriter Ben Howard, released on June 16, 2023. Known for his introspective lyricism and genre-blending sound, Howard explores new creative directions on this album, blending elements of indie rock, electronic music, and ambient textures to create a distinctive and atmospheric soundscape. Is It? delves into themes of self-reflection, fleeting moments, and existential musings, capturing Howard’s journey through personal growth and artistic exploration.
Following the release of Collections from the Whiteout (2021), which marked a departure into more experimental territory, Is It? sees Howard further expanding his musical horizons. The album was written and recorded largely in isolation, capturing a sense of introspection and simplicity. Howard, who suffered a mini-stroke during the album’s development, reflected deeply on life and creativity, and this experience has shaped the album’s contemplative tone.
Musically, Is It? is a layered and atmospheric experience. Howard continues to push boundaries, blending indie folk with ambient electronic textures, soft beats, and hypnotic melodies. The guitar, which has long been central to his sound, is often set against lush synths and subtle percussion, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The album’s production is minimalistic yet immersive, allowing Howard’s voice and lyrics to take center stage amid a dreamlike sonic landscape.
Key Tracks
“Couldn’t Make It Up” – The opening track is a soft yet haunting piece with Howard’s familiar fingerpicked guitar lines, accompanied by atmospheric synths. Its lyrics reflect on the unpredictable nature of life, capturing a sense of wonder and melancholy.
“Walking Backwards” – This single has a rhythmic, groove-based feel, combining layered instrumentation with introspective lyrics. The track’s upbeat tempo contrasts with its reflective lyrics, creating a mood of resigned optimism.
“Days of Lantana” – Featuring rich textures and a warm, repetitive melody, “Days of Lantana” reflects on memory and nostalgia. Howard’s vocals are layered and harmonized, creating a hazy, dreamlike quality that makes the track feel both intimate and expansive.
“Life in the Time” – This track is meditative and atmospheric, with minimalist production and lyrics that explore themes of time and existential uncertainty. Howard’s delicate guitar work is complemented by ambient synth layers, creating a soothing and contemplative soundscape.
“Spirit” – One of the album’s more hopeful tracks, “Spirit” has an uplifting, airy quality. The song builds gradually, layering vocals and instrumentation to a powerful climax, evoking a feeling of transcendence and connection.
“Interim of Sense” – A haunting, introspective track that captures Howard’s lyrical depth, “Interim of Sense” delves into themes of perception and understanding. The song’s minimalistic arrangement allows Howard’s poetic lyrics to shine, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere.
“Richmond Avenue” – This reflective track brings warmth and intimacy to the album, evoking a sense of place and memory. Howard’s soft vocals and gentle guitar strumming create a nostalgic, melancholic feel.
“Little Plant” – Closing the album, “Little Plant” is a contemplative song that explores themes of growth, resilience, and acceptance. The track’s minimalist production and soothing melody give it a meditative quality, ending the album on a peaceful, introspective note.
Is It? is a deeply reflective album that grapples with themes of time, identity, and the transience of life. The title itself raises open-ended questions, inviting listeners to ponder existential topics. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, often blurring the line between reality and introspection. Howard’s words focus on life’s smaller, more intimate moments, capturing the essence of memory, change, and personal growth.
The production is carefully crafted, with ambient and electronic elements that create an immersive experience. Howard’s voice often floats above layers of guitar and synths, with production that leans toward subtlety and nuance rather than overpowering instrumentation. The album has an almost cinematic feel, with its quiet moments creating space for reflection, perfectly matching the contemplative nature of the lyrics.
Is It? received praise from critics and fans for its honest and introspective nature, as well as for its atmospheric production. Many have noted that the album shows a maturation in Howard’s sound, taking the experimental direction he started in his previous album even further. The introspective and ambient qualities of Is It? have resonated with listeners, who find solace in the album’s tranquil yet probing exploration of life’s complexities.
As a significant addition to Howard’s catalog, Is It? highlights his evolution as an artist willing to experiment while remaining grounded in his songwriting roots. The album has further solidified Howard’s reputation as a genre-defying artist capable of crafting both intimate and expansive music.
Is It? represents a new chapter in Ben Howard’s career, capturing his journey toward self-discovery and his exploration of musical innovation. The album’s contemplative sound and meditative themes offer listeners a space for reflection, making it a timeless work that speaks to the delicate, transient nature of life. For fans of indie, folk, and ambient music, Is It? is a deeply resonant album that encapsulates Howard’s signature introspective style and his dedication to artistic growth.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Couldn’t Make It Up
Walking Backwards
Days Of Lantana
Life In The Time
Moonraker
Richmond Avenue
Interim Of Sense
Total Eclipse
Spirit
Little Plant
