Is At Play Vol. 2 a good place to start with deadmau5?

Yes, At Play Vol. 2 is recommended as a starting point for new deadmau5 listeners. A vibrant blend of intricate beats and melodic layers that epitomizes the peak of electronic dance music innovation. When 'At Play Vol. 2' was released in November 2009, deadmau5 had already established himself as a frontrunner in the electronic music scene, following the success of his breakthrough album 'Random Album Title' from 2008. This compilation showcased his evolving sound and production techniques while solidifying his status as a key figure in the electro house genre.

Who is At Play Vol. 2 for?

At Play Vol. 2 works well if you're into steady grooves for focused work, intricate beats for detail hunting and gradual rise with immersive flow.

How many songs are on At Play Vol. 2?

At Play Vol. 2 has 10 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.

At Play Vol. 2

deadmau5 · 2009

66 min · 10 tracks · house music

A vibrant blend of intricate beats and melodic layers that epitomizes the peak of electronic dance music innovation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Outta My Life (Touch mix) Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Attention Whore — This track encapsulates deadmau5's signature sound with its catchy hooks and complex layering, making it a staple in dance clubs.
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Orca — With its atmospheric build and hypnotic rhythms, 'Orca' showcases deadmau5's ability to create immersive soundscapes that transport listeners.
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Sex Slave — 'Sex Slave' combines edgy themes with pulsating beats, demonstrating deadmau5's flair for provocative titles paired with infectious grooves.
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Mr G — 'Mr G' features intricate melodies intertwined with dynamic bass lines, exemplifying the technical prowess and creativity prevalent throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong production and cohesive sound but remains within familiar genre boundaries.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent tempo throughout, with tracks maintaining a steady four-on-the-floor beat typical of house music.
Each track incorporates layered synth melodies that build gradually, often introducing new elements at regular intervals.
Several tracks utilize extended breakdowns where the rhythm drops out, creating tension before the beat returns.
The final track concludes with a fade-out, leaving an open-ended feeling rather than a definitive close.

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

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

steady grooves for focused work
intricate beats for detail hunting
gradual rise with immersive flow
pulsating energy for late nights

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its intricate beats and melodic layers, solidifying deadmau5's style.
Themes: late-night dance floors· immersive soundscapes· provocative club culture
Career context: When 'At Play Vol. 2' was released in November 2009, deadmau5 had already established himself as a frontrunner in the electronic music scene, following the success of his breakthrough album 'Random Album Title' from 2008. This compilation showcased his evolving sound and production techniques while solidifying his status as a key figure in the electro house genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Eric Prydz· Sasha· Above & Beyond