Cloaca Maxima cover

Cloaca Maxima

CMX · 1997

169 min · 44 tracks · progressive rock

A labyrinth of intricate melodies intertwines with haunting lyrics, creating an immersive journey through existential themes.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Ainomieli '97 Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Nainen tanssii tangoa — This track exemplifies the band's ability to fuse traditional Finnish musical elements with progressive rock, showcasing both lyrical storytelling and dynamic instrumentation.
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    Elokuun kruunu — With its ethereal soundscapes and reflective lyrics, this song captures the essence of longing and introspection that permeates the album.
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    Ruoste — The track stands out for its haunting melody and vivid imagery, presenting a powerful commentary on decay and renewal that resonates throughout the record.
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    Saatana — This song's provocative title and intricate composition highlight CMX's willingness to tackle controversial themes while maintaining artistic integrity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • layered, dense sonic textures
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — This album is noted for its critical acclaim and solidified the band's influence.
Themes
Finnish tango fusion· decay and renewal
Career context
Released in 1997, 'Cloaca Maxima' was CMX's fifth studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Vainajala' from 1996. At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation within the Finnish progressive rock scene, experimenting with complex arrangements and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Amorphis· Opeth· Porcupine Tree

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Kätketty kukka

    The narrative shifts from abstract imagery to a personal reflection on hidden truths, revealing layers of vulnerability.

    This transition from metaphorical to personal engages listeners by inviting them into a more intimate space within the song.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Ainomieli '97 Start here 3:30
  • 2 Nimetön 3:37
  • 3 Kultanaamio 4:55
  • 4 Nahkaparturi 1:48
  • 5 Nainen tanssii tangoa 4:34
  • 6 Vallat ja väet 4:21
  • 7 Kirosäkeet 4:10
  • 8 Suljettu astia 3:34
  • 9 Elokuun kruunu 4:32
  • 10 Rautakantele 4:32
  • 11 Hiki 2:03
  • 12 Manalainen 3:25
  • 13 Kätketty kukka 4:38
  • 14 Linnunhammas 3:21
  • 15 Marian ilmestys 5:47

Disc 2

  • 1 Hiljaisuuteen 2:04
  • 2 Ruoste 4:01
  • 3 Helvetin hyvä paimen 2:47
  • 4 Talviunia 3:30
  • 5 Turkoosi 4:18
  • 6 Veden ääri 3:07
  • 7 Aura 3:31
  • 8 Pelasta maailma 4:16
  • 9 Tähteinvälinen '97 5:06
  • 10 Tulikiveä 3:50
  • 11 Yöllisiä 3:20
  • 12 Mikään ei vie sitä pois 3:19
  • 13 Yö ei ole pimeä päivä 3:08
  • 14 Talvipäivänseisaus 4:46

Disc 3

  • 1 Musiikin ystävälliset kasvot '97 4:08
  • 2 Katariinanpyörä (akustinen versio) 2:33
  • 3 Siivekäs 4:41
  • 4 Hyvä tahto 4:11
  • 5 Joet 3:47
  • 6 Aamutähti '97 4:29
  • 7 Keskellä 2:18
  • 8 Marmori 4:17
  • 9 Seittemän jeesusta 3:20
  • 10 Riitti 4:43
  • 11 Saatana 4:17
  • 12 Pimeä maa (live'95) 3:58
  • 13 Näkyjen pitelijä 5:21
  • 14 Shakti 4:35
  • 15 Reuna 3:07

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata