Is Blowback a good place to start with Tricky?

Yes, Blowback is recommended as a starting point for new Tricky listeners. A gritty blend of trip hop and rock, infused with raw emotion and experimental production techniques. By the time Tricky released Blowback in 2001, he was navigating a complex post-peak phase following his acclaimed debut Maxinquaye in 1995 and the follow-up Pre-Millennium Tension in 1996. This album marked a significant shift as he sought to reinvent his sound amidst changing industry dynamics and personal challenges, collaborating with various artists to explore new sonic territories.

Blowback works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Blowback?

Blowback has 15 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Blowback

Tricky · 2001

58 min · 15 tracks · electronic music

A gritty blend of trip hop and rock, infused with raw emotion and experimental production techniques.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Excess Start here — The opening track sets a dark, immersive tone with its haunting melodies and layered vocal samples that encapsulate Tricky's unique style.
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Girls — This track juxtaposes seductive lyrics with unsettling beats, showcasing Tricky's ability to blend vulnerability with raw aggression.
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Diss Never (Dig Up We History) — With its politically charged lyrics and driving rhythm, this song illustrates Tricky's commitment to addressing social issues through his music.
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Evolution Revolution Love — This standout track combines infectious hooks with poignant themes of change and love, demonstrating Tricky's lyrical depth and musical versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends genres with experimental production but lacks a strong cohesive flow throughout its length.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, with abrupt changes in tempo and mood that challenge traditional listening patterns.
The production employs layered samples and effects, creating a dense atmosphere that often obscures the vocals, making them feel like part of the instrumentation.

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

long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative late-night vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Features bold experimentation and genre-blending, marking a departure from earlier works.
Career context: By the time Tricky released Blowback in 2001, he was navigating a complex post-peak phase following his acclaimed debut Maxinquaye in 1995 and the follow-up Pre-Millennium Tension in 1996. This album marked a significant shift as he sought to reinvent his sound amidst changing industry dynamics and personal challenges, collaborating with various artists to explore new sonic territories.
Stylistic neighbors: Massive Attack· Portishead· DJ Shadow