Art Metal cover

Art Metal

Jonas Hellborg · 2007

49 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A fusion of intricate jazz rhythms and progressive rock textures, creating an expansive sonic landscape that invites deep listening.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Muthucutpor Start here — This opening track sets the tone with a complex interplay of rhythms and melodies, establishing the album's thematic explorations of cultural fusion.
  • →
    Nataraja — With its hypnotic groove and dynamic shifts, this track exemplifies Hellborg's ability to weave intricate motifs into a cohesive soundscape.
  • →
    The Three Princes of Serendip — At over eleven minutes, this ambitious piece showcases the album's depth, combining improvisational elements with structured composition to create a captivating journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
68 /100
Alpine
Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

Intricate rhythms and extended improvisation define this fusion of jazz and progressive rock.

What we noticed

  • Each track showcases extended instrumental sections, allowing for improvisation and exploration of themes.
  • The use of electric bass as the lead instrument drives the melodies, supported by layered guitar and keyboard textures.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • intricate improvisations that unfold gradually
  • extended tracks for deep exploration
  • reflective moments of sonic solitude
  • dynamic shifts in emotional intensity

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking quick, catchy tunes
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Innovative fusion of genres marks a departure from Hellborg's established sound.
Themes
cultural fusion· hypnotic grooves· improvisational journeys
Career context
By 2007, Jonas Hellborg was an established figure in the jazz and progressive rock scenes, known for his virtuosic bass playing. 'Art Metal' marked his return after a five-year hiatus since his last studio album, showcasing his unique blend of styles and collaborative spirit with various musicians.
Stylistic neighbors
Bill Laswell· Michael Manring· Chick Corea

Tracklist

  • 1 Muthucutpor Start here 5:10
  • 2 Manirambha 5:50
  • 3 Nataraja 4:12
  • 4 Solitude 3:09
  • 5 The Three Princes of Serendip 11:20
  • 6 Round Metal Hat 4:46
  • 7 Vyakhan-kar 6:00
  • 8 Art Metal 9:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata