What makes Actual Fucking by Cex notable?

This album is significant for its innovative blending of genres and techniques, contributing to the ongoing dialogue in IDM. It received attention from critics for its unique sound and was influential within underground electronic circles, helping to shape the direction of experimental music in the mid-2000s. By 2006, Cex had established himself as a notable figure in the intelligent dance music scene following his previous album, 'Being Watched' in 2004. 'Actual Fucking' represents his continued evolution in sound, showcasing a deeper engagement with rhythm and texture while maintaining his signature experimental edge.

Who is Actual Fucking for?

Actual Fucking works well if you're into chaotic energy for late nights, fragmented beats for focused work and immersive headphone detail exploration.

How many songs are on Actual Fucking?

Actual Fucking has 8 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Actual Fucking

Cex · 2006

40 min · 8 tracks · intelligent dance music

A glitchy, cerebral exploration of electronic soundscapes layered with intricate rhythms and introspective samples.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Baltimore — The opening track sets a compelling tone with its blend of upbeat rhythms and complex layers, encapsulating the album's adventurous spirit.
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Chicago — This track features an infectious groove paired with intricate sampling that exemplifies Cex's ability to merge danceable beats with cerebral experimentation.
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Los Angeles — Here, Cex pushes the boundaries of structure and melody, creating a dynamic soundscape that showcases his technical prowess and artistic vision.

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's intricate rhythms and glitchy textures create a unique sound within IDM.

What we noticed

Tracks frequently transition without clear breaks, leading to a continuous flow that challenges traditional song structures.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 3/10

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

chaotic energy for late nights
fragmented beats for focused work
immersive headphone detail exploration
dynamic pacing with surprise shifts

Maybe skip if you

seeking straightforward melodies
prefer predictable song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: By 2006, Cex had established himself as a notable figure in the intelligent dance music scene following his previous album, 'Being Watched' in 2004. 'Actual Fucking' represents his continued evolution in sound, showcasing a deeper engagement with rhythm and texture while maintaining his signature experimental edge.
Stylistic neighbors: Amon Tobin· Squarepusher· Aphex Twin