A Pox on the Pioneers cover

A Pox on the Pioneers

Andrew Weatherall · 2009

44 min · 10 tracks · electronica

A kaleidoscopic blend of electronic textures and hypnotic rhythms, crafted for both introspection and the dancefloor.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Fail We May, Sail We Must — Opening the album with its rhythmic pulse and layered synths, this track sets the tone for Weatherall's eclectic exploration of sound that follows.
  • →
    Privately Electrified — This track stands out with its intricate production and moody atmosphere, showcasing Weatherall's ability to fuse melancholic melodies with driving beats.
  • →
    Let's Do The 7 Again — With its catchy hooks and danceable rhythm, this track exemplifies Weatherall's unique blend of electronica that appeals to both club-goers and home listeners alike.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate electronic textures with hypnotic rhythms, appealing to both introspective listening and dance settings.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of layered synths and rhythmic patterns that evolve gradually over its ten tracks.
  • Several tracks incorporate field recordings and spoken word elements, adding texture without dominating the instrumental focus.
  • The tempo varies across tracks, with some maintaining a steady beat while others explore more abstract soundscapes.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • hypnotic rhythms for late nights
  • introspective grooves for reflection
  • dancefloor energy with depth
  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes to explore

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'A Pox on the Pioneers' was released in 2009, Andrew Weatherall had established himself as a pivotal figure in the UK electronic music scene, known for his production work and DJing. This album followed 'The Last of the Famous International Playboys', showcasing his ongoing evolution as an artist while maintaining the experimental edge he was celebrated for.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Fail We May, Sail We Must 3:54
  • 2 Privately Electrified 5:35
  • 3 Miss Rule 3:35
  • 4 Selective Walking 4:11
  • 5 Liar With Wings 3:55
  • 6 Let's Do The 7 Again 3:41
  • 7 A Pox On The Pioneers 4:15
  • 8 All The Little Things (That Make Life Worth Living) 4:54
  • 9 Built Back Higher 3:56
  • 10 Walk Of Shame 6:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata