Big Black Delta cover

Big Black Delta

Big Black Delta · 2013

55 min · 13 tracks · electronic rock

A pulsating blend of electronic beats and rock sensibilities, laced with atmospheric textures and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Put the Gun on the Floor — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its driving beat and compelling hooks, showcasing Bates' ability to fuse rock energy with electronic production.
  • →
    Huggin & Kissin — With its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, this track exemplifies the playful yet introspective nature of the album, making it a standout moment.
  • →
    Money Rain Down — This song contrasts darker lyrics with an infectious melody, highlighting Bates' skill in creating depth within his electronic rock framework.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends electronic and rock elements effectively but lacks a strong cohesive narrative throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that build intensity with layered electronic beats and rock instrumentation, while the second half shifts to more atmospheric and introspective soundscapes.
  • Several tracks incorporate vocal samples that are heavily processed, blending seamlessly with the instrumental elements rather than standing out as traditional lead vocals.
  • The album's pacing varies significantly, with tracks like 'Money Rain Down' and 'Ifuckingloveyou' offering contrasting dynamics that create a push-and-pull effect throughout.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • pulsating energy for late nights
  • dynamic soundscapes for focus
  • engaging rhythms for road trips
  • captivating textures for headphone use

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking calm and minimalism
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Big Black Delta is the debut album from Jonathan Bates, who had previously gained recognition as a member of Mellowdrone. Released in January 2013, this album marked a significant shift as Bates transitioned to a solo project, exploring a more expansive sound that blends electronic and rock elements.
Stylistic neighbors
The Glitch Mob· Odesza· Tycho

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Put the Gun on the Floor 3:39
  • 2 Side of the Road 4:39
  • 3 Huggin & Kissin 4:25
  • 4 Capsize 4:53
  • 5 Money Rain Down 4:31
  • 6 Betamax 4:34
  • 7 The Zebrah 2:53
  • 8 Ifuckingloveyou 5:05
  • 9 x22 2:12
  • 10 Dreary Moon 4:54
  • 11 PB3 5:52
  • 12 Into the Night 3:51
  • 13 Love You This Summer 3:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata