Apple cover

Apple

A. G. Cook · 2020

39 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A kaleidoscopic blend of hyperpop and experimental pop, blending sharp production with whimsical melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Beautiful Superstar — This track encapsulates the album's playful yet introspective nature, combining catchy hooks with lyrical themes of self-identity and fame.
  • →
    Animals — With its infectious energy and vibrant production, 'Animals' stands out as a celebration of freedom and individuality, embodying the spirit of the album.
  • →
    The Darkness — This song showcases Cook's ability to blend darker themes with bright, polished production, revealing the duality present throughout 'Apple'.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's innovative structures and production techniques mark it as a significant entry in the hyperpop genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a frenetic pace, which is maintained through the first half before shifting to more introspective themes.
  • The use of unconventional song structures, such as varying lengths and unexpected drops, challenges traditional pop formats.
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
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • whimsical melodic explorations
  • introspective late-night vibes
  • dynamic emotional shifts
  • layered sonic textures
  • short, engaging listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context
A. G. Cook released 'Apple' as his debut studio album after establishing himself in the music scene through collaborations and producing for artists like Charli XCX. This 2020 release marked a significant step from his earlier mixtape '7G' to a more cohesive and expansive artistic statement, showcasing his growth as a solo artist.
Stylistic neighbors
Charli XCX· Sophie· Caroline Polachek

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Haunted

    The song shifts from reflective verses to an explosive chorus filled with layered harmonies.

    This structural contrast amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a dynamic interplay between vulnerability and exuberance.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Oh Yeah 3:32
  • 2 Xxoplex 2:35
  • 3 Beautiful Superstar 4:42
  • 4 Animals 4:08
  • 5 Airhead 4:37
  • 6 Haunted 2:50
  • 7 The Darkness 5:11
  • 8 Jumper 3:05
  • 9 Stargon 4:51
  • 10 Lifeline 4:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata