Apocalypse cover

Apocalypse

Thundercat · 2013

40 min · 12 tracks · electronic music

A vibrant blend of funk, electronic textures, and introspective lyrics creates a sonic landscape that feels both lush and deeply personal.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Heartbreaks + Setbacks — This track encapsulates the album's emotional core, blending catchy melodies with poignant reflections on love and loss, making it relatable and impactful.
  • →
    Oh Sheit It's X — With its infectious groove and playful lyrics, this song stands out as an energetic anthem that highlights Thundercat's skillful bass work and vocal charisma.
  • →
    A Message for Austin / Praise the Lord / Enter the Void — This closing piece serves as an ambitious showcase of musical exploration, merging multiple sections that reflect spiritual themes while showcasing Thundercat's versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
66 /100
Alpine
Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions with vibrant instrumentation and a cohesive sound, though it may not have widespread recognition.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that blend intricate bass lines with layered electronic textures, creating a rich sonic tapestry.
  • Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections, allowing for improvisation and exploration within the arrangements.
  • The final track is a medley that combines multiple themes and motifs from earlier songs, providing a sense of closure to the album.
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
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • vibrant soundscapes for introspection
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • playful grooves for upbeat moods
  • immersive late-night listening experience
  • cathartic reflections on personal themes

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, sprawling compositions
  • prefer straightforward, repetitive sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in early 2013, Apocalypse marked Thundercat's second studio album following his debut, The Golden Age of Apocalypse. This album showcased his growing artistry as he transitioned from a supporting musician for artists like Flying Lotus and Erykah Badu to a solo act asserting his unique sound.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Tenfold 3:05
  • 2 Heartbreaks + Setbacks 3:24
  • 3 The Life Aquatic 2:37
  • 4 Special Stage 2:56
  • 5 Tron Song 2:34
  • 6 Seven 2:17
  • 7 Oh Sheit It's X 3:47
  • 8 Without You 4:41
  • 9 Lotus and the Jondy 4:53
  • 10 Evangelion 2:21
  • 11 We'll Die 0:56
  • 12 A Message for Austin / Praise the Lord / Enter the Void 6:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata