By the Throat cover

By the Throat

Ben Frost · 2009

45 min · 11 tracks · electronic music

A visceral blend of dark electronics and haunting soundscapes that immerses the listener in a world of tension and atmosphere.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Killshot Start here — This opening track sets an intense tone with its pulsating beats and dramatic sound layers, encapsulating the album's overall aesthetic of tension.
  • →
    Híbakúsja — This piece showcases Frost's ability to blend intricate textures with powerful dynamics, creating an almost cinematic experience that defines the album.
  • →
    Peter Venkman, Part I — With its brooding atmosphere and gradual build-up, this track exemplifies Frost's skill in crafting immersive soundscapes that draw listeners into a deeper emotional state.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's innovative sound design and immersive atmosphere establish it as a notable entry in the experimental electronic genre.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a heavy, distorted drone that sets a dark tone, while subsequent tracks layer intricate textures and rhythms.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt transitions, such as 'Peter Venkman, Part I' leading directly into 'Peter Venkman, Part II', creating a sense of continuity.
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
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • immersive soundscapes for deep focus
  • wave-like pacing that unfolds gradually
  • haunting textures for late nights
  • dynamic exploration of dark atmospheres

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek upbeat, lively tempos

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Frost's reputation with innovative sound design in post-classical genre.
Themes
dark electronic landscapes· cinematic tension· brooding atmospheres
Career context
By the Throat is Ben Frost's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed 2007 release, Theory of Machines. At this point in his career, Frost was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the experimental electronic music scene, known for his unique fusion of classical and electronic elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Tim Hecker· Fennesz· Oneohtrix Point Never

Tracklist

  • 1 Killshot Start here 6:11
  • 2 The Carpathians 2:57
  • 3 O God Protect Me 2:55
  • 4 Híbakúsja 7:25
  • 5 Untitled Transient 0:50
  • 6 Peter Venkman, Part I 4:29
  • 7 Peter Venkman, Part II 5:05
  • 8 Leo Needs a New Pair of Shoes 7:04
  • 9 Through the Glass of the Roof 1:35
  • 10 Through the Roof of Your Mouth 4:34
  • 11 Through the Mouth of Your Eye 2:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata