Is ALT a good place to start with Van der Graaf Generator?

Yes, ALT is recommended as a starting point for new Van der Graaf Generator listeners. Experimental soundscapes intertwine with intricate rhythms, showcasing a bold evolution in progressive rock's experimental edge. Released on June 25, 2012, ALT marks Van der Graaf Generator's first studio album in over a decade, following their previous release, Present (2005). At this point in their career, the band was re-establishing their presence in the progressive rock scene after a long hiatus, showcasing their continued innovation and musical exploration.

ALT works well if you're into dynamic progression with peaks, wave-like pacing for contemplation and experimental soundscapes to explore.

How many songs are on ALT?

ALT has 14 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

ALT

Van der Graaf Generator · 2012

61 min · 14 tracks · progressive rock

Experimental soundscapes intertwine with intricate rhythms, showcasing a bold evolution in progressive rock's experimental edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Earlybird Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Colossus — This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of complex structures and emotional depth, anchored by powerful instrumentation and haunting vocals that evoke a sense of grandeur.
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Repeat After Me — With its hypnotic repetition and intricate layers, this track serves as a compelling exploration of rhythm and texture, showcasing the band’s avant-garde tendencies.
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Dronus — The lengthy composition pushes boundaries through its immersive soundscape and experimental approach, embodying the essence of what makes Van der Graaf Generator unique.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions but lacks some cohesion and polish typical of their earlier work.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside instrumental sections, creating a layered auditory experience.
The final track, 'Dronus', extends into an ambient soundscape that gradually fades out, contrasting with the more structured pieces earlier in the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

dynamic progression with peaks
wave-like pacing for contemplation
experimental soundscapes to explore
immersive headphone detail hunting

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Shows a bold evolution in sound, pushing musical boundaries in progressive rock.
Themes: avant-garde experimentation· immersive soundscapes· complex rhythmic structures
Career context: Released on June 25, 2012, ALT marks Van der Graaf Generator's first studio album in over a decade, following their previous release, Present (2005). At this point in their career, the band was re-establishing their presence in the progressive rock scene after a long hiatus, showcasing their continued innovation and musical exploration.
Stylistic neighbors: King Crimson· Genesis· Yes