What makes Art Angels by Grimes notable?

Art Angels received widespread acclaim, debuting at number one on the Billboard Dance/Electronic Albums chart and making several year-end lists. Its eclectic sound and bold production influenced a wave of artists in the pop and electronic scenes, establishing Grimes as a cultural icon and advocate for artistic independence. Released on November 6, 2015, Art Angels followed Grimes' critically acclaimed album Visions from 2012. This album marked her transition to a more assertive and polished sound, embracing mainstream appeal while maintaining her experimental roots. It solidified her status as a leading figure in contemporary pop music.

Who is Art Angels for?

Art Angels works well if you're into short, punchy listening bursts, dynamic emotional contrasts and playful and provocative themes.

How many songs are on Art Angels?

Art Angels has 15 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Art Angels

Grimes · 2015

54 min · 15 tracks · contemporary R&B

A kaleidoscopic blend of avant-pop and electronic textures that pulse with a fierce, playful energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Flesh without Blood — This track showcases Grimes' signature blend of catchy hooks and danceable beats, combining emotional depth with upbeat production. Its lyrics explore themes of identity and the complexities of fame.
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Kill V. Maim — With its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus, this song stands out for its exploration of conflict and transformation. The energetic delivery makes it a defining moment of empowerment on the album.
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California — This track captures a whimsical yet reflective take on life in California, blending dreamy melodies with vibrant instrumentation. Its playful narrative contrasts sharply with the darker undertones present in other tracks.
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Venus Fly — Featuring Janelle Monáe, this collaboration emphasizes themes of strength and femininity through its dynamic soundscape. The fusion of their voices creates a powerful statement about female empowerment in contemporary music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Art Angels showcases bold production choices and eclectic songwriting, making it a standout in contemporary R&B.

What we noticed

The album features abrupt transitions between tracks, often shifting genres and tempos within the same song.
Vocals are layered with harmonies and effects, creating a dense soundscape that varies from track to track.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as 'SCREAM', which blends spoken word with melodic hooks.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

short, punchy listening bursts
dynamic emotional contrasts
playful and provocative themes
explorative auditory experiences
vibrant and colorful soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on November 6, 2015, Art Angels followed Grimes' critically acclaimed album Visions from 2012. This album marked her transition to a more assertive and polished sound, embracing mainstream appeal while maintaining her experimental roots. It solidified her status as a leading figure in contemporary pop music.
Stylistic neighbors: FKA twigs· Chvrches· Bat for Lashes