Atomic cover

Atomic

Labrinth · 2013

21 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of electronic beats and soulful melodies, creating an immersive sonic landscape that is both energetic and introspective.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Atomic Start here — The title track stands out with its energetic production and catchy chorus, encapsulating the EP's overall theme of empowerment and resilience.
  • →
    Let the Dogs Run Wild — This track combines infectious rhythms with introspective lyrics, demonstrating Labrinth's ability to merge upbeat sounds with deeper emotional themes.
  • →
    Under the Knife — 'Under the Knife' showcases Labrinth's vocal range and lyrical vulnerability, offering a poignant contrast to the more energetic tracks on the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, blending genres effectively while maintaining a unique sound.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a heavy electronic beat that is maintained throughout the EP, creating a consistent rhythmic foundation.
  • Vocals are layered with harmonies and effects, particularly in 'Let the Dogs Run Wild,' which features a call-and-response structure.
  • Each track varies in tempo but maintains a cohesive sound palette, blending electronic elements with soulful melodies.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

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

  • gradual build to emotional release
  • vibrant exploration of soundscapes
  • engaging rhythmic textures throughout
  • late-night reflective listening experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, instant gratification
  • dislike experimental sound explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Atomic helped solidify Labrinth's presence in the music scene after his debut.
Themes
electronic empowerment· introspective rhythms· vulnerable resilience
Career context
Released in 2013, Atomic marked Labrinth's first EP following his debut album, Electronic Earth. At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a versatile artist blending R&B with electronic music influences, setting the stage for subsequent projects that would expand his creative reach.
Stylistic neighbors
James Blake· Sampha· Sufjan Stevens

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Let the Dogs Run Wild

    The narrative shifts from playful abandon to a more serious reflection on personal freedom.

    This shift adds depth to the song, revealing layers of meaning beneath its initially carefree exterior.

Tracklist

  • 1 Atomic Start here 5:01
  • 2 Let the Dogs Run Wild 4:28
  • 3 No Prisoners 4:18
  • 4 Meanest Man 4:42
  • 5 Under the Knife 3:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata