The music of Manchester's I Am Kloot is just as difficult to place, as the strange band name suggests. Initially, the trio around singer John Bramwell was assigned to the so-called New Acoustic Movement, including Kings Of Convenience. It has proven to be a weakness, the sound on the self-titled sequel to their debut album Natural History shows a rich palette of sounds, with both electric and acoustic
… instruments. Bramwell's snarling voice has an authority that forces you to listen to him, even if lyrically it is not always clear what it is about. Bramwell's voice can best be compared to fellow townsman Liam Gallagher, who has just such a perfect rock stance. But where Oasis deals in massively sing-along stadium songs, the songs of I Am Kloot are a lot more personal, based on the inimitable thoughts of Bramwell. An intriguing record that deserves several spins. (MS)more