Baralku cover

Baralku

Emancipator · 2017

60 min · 14 tracks · trip hop

A smooth fusion of downtempo beats and lush instrumentation creates an immersive soundscape throughout the album.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Baralku — The title track opens the album with ethereal melodies and rhythmic intricacies that capture the listener's attention immediately, setting the tone for the entire project.
  • →
    Goodness — This track features a rich tapestry of sound that combines organic samples with electronic elements, showcasing Emancipator’s skill in blending genres seamlessly.
  • →
    Time for Space — As one of the longest tracks on the album, it allows for an expansive journey through sound, illustrating Emancipator's ability to build atmosphere and emotional depth.

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 intricate production and smooth transitions create an engaging downtempo experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of layered instrumentation, with strings and electronic elements intertwining throughout the tracks.
  • The tempo remains predominantly slow to mid-tempo, creating a relaxed atmosphere that encourages deep listening.
  • Transitions between tracks often include ambient interludes, which contribute to a seamless flow across the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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

  • dreamlike soundscapes for relaxation
  • background warmth for creative work
  • gentle ebb and flow pacing
  • explorative listening during introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
By the release of Baralku in 2017, Emancipator had established himself as a key figure in the downtempo scene, following his previous album, Seven Seas, which showcased his unique blend of electronic and organic sounds. This album marked a continuation of his exploration into more complex arrangements and layered textures, solidifying his artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors
Bonobo· Nujabes· Odesza

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Baralku 3:25
  • 2 Ghost Pong 4:51
  • 3 Mako 4:12
  • 4 Daffodil Pickles 2:34
  • 5 Tree Hunt 4:39
  • 6 Abracadabra 2:31
  • 7 Goodness 5:25
  • 8 Udon 3:46
  • 9 Bat Country 4:28
  • 10 Pancakes 4:47
  • 11 Rappahannock 5:14
  • 12 Winter Dub 4:46
  • 13 Time for Space 7:13
  • 14 Sands 2:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata