Is 13 a good place to start with Indochine?

Yes, 13 is recommended as a starting point for new Indochine listeners. A sweeping blend of atmospheric rock and synth-driven melodies, reflecting both nostalgia and forward-thinking creativity. Released on September 8, 2017, '13' marks Indochine's twelfth studio album and their return after a five-year hiatus since 'Black City Parade'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their legacy as one of France's most enduring rock acts, exploring new themes while maintaining their signature sound.

13 works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, gradual builds and payoffs and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on 13?

13 has 13 tracks, running approximately 77 minutes.

13

Indochine · 2017

77 min · 13 tracks · new wave

A sweeping blend of atmospheric rock and synth-driven melodies, reflecting both nostalgia and forward-thinking creativity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Black Sky Start here — The opening track sets a dramatic tone with its atmospheric soundscapes, blending introspective lyrics with a powerful instrumental backdrop that encapsulates the album's overall aesthetic.
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La vie est belle — This track stands out for its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, showcasing the band's ability to balance melancholy themes with a sense of hope and joy.
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Suffragettes BB — With its bold political undertones and infectious rhythm, this song captures Indochine's knack for addressing contemporary issues while remaining engaging and catchy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album combines atmospheric rock and synth elements, showcasing strong production and varied pacing.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cinematic intro that sets a moody atmosphere, followed by tracks that blend driving rhythms with lush synth layers.
Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies, creating a rich texture that enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The pacing varies throughout, with mid-tempo tracks interspersed with more upbeat songs, allowing for dynamic shifts in energy.
The final track features an extended outro that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering sense of reflection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance in their later career, achieving chart success.
Themes: futuristic visions· gender equality activism
Moods: Nostalgic· Introspective
Career context: Released on September 8, 2017, '13' marks Indochine's twelfth studio album and their return after a five-year hiatus since 'Black City Parade'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their legacy as one of France's most enduring rock acts, exploring new themes while maintaining their signature sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· The Cure· Duran Duran