Released in 1969, the first album by Clouds, The Clouds Scrapbook, showcases the band's distinctive organ-driven sound, which was a precursor to the styles of later progressive rock icons like Emerson, Lake & Palmer and Yes. Billy Ritchie, the band's organist, was particularly influential, being one of the first to play a significant role as a keyboardist, setting a precedent for future musicians in the genre. The album was critically acclaimed upon its release, with Melody Maker naming it "Album of the Month" in September 1969. Despite its initial success, the band struggled for commercial recognition, and their innovative approach was not widely appreciated at the time. However, in retrospect, Scrapbook is regarded as a pioneering work that laid the foundation for the progressive rock movement.