What makes Balter/Saunier by Deerhoof notable?

Balter/Saunier received critical acclaim for its adventurous sound and was noted for its bold experimentation within the art rock genre. The album's unique structure and idiosyncratic compositions contributed to Deerhoof's influence on subsequent indie and avant-garde artists, solidifying their role as trailblazers in the music scene. By the time Deerhoof released Balter/Saunier in 2016, they were already established as pioneers of experimental rock, having formed in 1994. This album represented a continuation of their innovative approach following the critical success of their previous album, La Isla Bonita, which had been released in 2015.

Who is Balter/Saunier for?

Balter/Saunier works well if you're into dynamic progression with climactic moments, kaleidoscopic melodies to explore and short bursts of experimentation.

How many songs are on Balter/Saunier?

Balter/Saunier has 9 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Balter/Saunier

Deerhoof · 2016

49 min · 9 tracks · experimental music

A surreal blend of chaotic rhythms and playful melodies that challenges conventional song structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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meltDown Upshot: Credo — This track opens the album with a frenetic energy that encapsulates the band's eclectic style, setting a tone of playful unpredictability.
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Deerhoof Chamber Variations — Clocking in at over twenty minutes, this expansive piece showcases the band's ability to merge classical elements with their signature chaos, representing the culmination of their artistic vision.
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Pois que nada que dure, ou que durando... — This track stands out for its haunting vocal delivery and intricate arrangements, illustrating Deerhoof's knack for blending contrasting sonic textures.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental nature and unique sound structure make it stand out while still being somewhat accessible.

What we noticed

The album features abrupt shifts in tempo and dynamics, with tracks often transitioning from chaotic sections to quieter, more melodic passages.
The use of layered vocals creates a disorienting effect, with multiple voices overlapping and intertwining rather than following a traditional lead-and-harmony format.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

dynamic progression with climactic moments
kaleidoscopic melodies to explore
short bursts of experimentation
wave-like pacing for engagement

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Deerhoof released Balter/Saunier in 2016, they were already established as pioneers of experimental rock, having formed in 1994. This album represented a continuation of their innovative approach following the critical success of their previous album, La Isla Bonita, which had been released in 2015.
Stylistic neighbors: Battles· Tera Melos· Hella