What makes AZD by Actress notable?

AZD received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with significant praise from major publications like Pitchfork, which highlighted its bold sonic experimentation. The album not only reinforced Actress's status within the electronic scene but also influenced subsequent artists embracing avant-garde approaches to production. By the time Actress released AZD, he was already recognized for his innovative approach in electronic music, following his 2012 album R.I.P., which had solidified his reputation. AZD marks a continued evolution of his sound, showcasing a more experimental and abstract aesthetic that builds on the groundwork laid by his previous works.

AZD works well if you're into haunting soundscapes for introspection, kaleidoscopic beats for deep focus and abstract textures that provoke thought.

How many songs are on AZD?

AZD has 12 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

AZD

Actress · 2017

55 min · 12 tracks · electronic music

A dense tapestry of glitchy textures and abstract rhythms that challenge conventional electronic music structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Fantasynth — Fantasynth encapsulates the album's experimental essence with its intricate layers of sound and unexpected shifts in rhythm, pushing the boundaries of traditional electronic music.
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CYN — This track stands out for its haunting melodies interwoven with glitchy beats, creating a palpable tension that defines much of AZD's atmosphere.
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Dancing in the Smoke — With an extended runtime, this piece allows for a deep exploration of soundscapes, immersing listeners in a meditative state that showcases Actress's unique production style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

69 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

AZD's innovative textures and abstract rhythms create a distinct and immersive electronic experience.

What we noticed

The album features a non-linear structure, with tracks often blending into one another without clear breaks.
The sound palette is dominated by glitchy textures and abstract soundscapes, with minimal melodic content throughout.

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

Influence 4/10

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

haunting soundscapes for introspection
kaleidoscopic beats for deep focus
abstract textures that provoke thought
dynamic shifts in mood and

Maybe skip if you

seeking straightforward song structures
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Actress released AZD, he was already recognized for his innovative approach in electronic music, following his 2012 album R.I.P., which had solidified his reputation. AZD marks a continued evolution of his sound, showcasing a more experimental and abstract aesthetic that builds on the groundwork laid by his previous works.
Stylistic neighbors: Burial· Arca· Oneohtrix Point Never

Tracklist

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

1 Nimbus 0:54
2 Untitled 7 5:13
3 Fantasynth 5:02
4 Blue Window 3:42
5 CYN 3:18
6 X22RME 5:04
7 Runner 5:12
8 Falling Rizlas 2:25
9 Dancing in the Smoke 6:21
10 Faure in Chrome 6:02
11 There's an Angel in the Shower 7:33
12 Visa 4:29

What to play next

Listen next

LAGEOS

2018

Go back to

Ghettoville

2014

Full Actress discography Artists like Actress

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata