Is Collage a good place to start with The Chainsmokers?

Yes, Collage is recommended as a starting point for new The Chainsmokers listeners. A vibrant mix of melodic hooks and pulsating beats that captures the essence of contemporary electronic dance music. Released on November 4, 2016, 'Collage' came as The Chainsmokers' first extended play following their breakout success with singles like 'Closer'. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a duo known for individual hits to a staple act in the EDM scene, solidifying their presence with this collection of tracks.

Collage works well if you're into concise energetic flow, for party playlists and sing-along anthems with friends.

How many songs are on Collage?

Collage has 5 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Collage

The Chainsmokers · 2016

18 min · 5 tracks · electronic dance music

A vibrant mix of melodic hooks and pulsating beats that captures the essence of contemporary electronic dance music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Closer Start here — This track became a cultural phenomenon, marking a high point for The Chainsmokers with its infectious chorus and relatable themes of longing and love.
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Don't Let Me Down — Featuring Daya's compelling vocals, this song captures the urgency of seeking support during vulnerable moments, resonating widely with listeners.
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All We Know — The collaboration with Phoebe Ryan showcases an emotional depth that diverges from typical EDM tracks while maintaining an infectious rhythm.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong hooks and production but follows familiar patterns in EDM and pop.

What we noticed

Tracks four and five shift to a more introspective tone, utilizing softer instrumentation and emotional lyrics that contrast with the earlier upbeat tracks.
The EP maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with all tracks hovering around the same BPM, creating a cohesive flow.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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

concise energetic flow
for party playlists
sing-along anthems with friends
upbeat vibes for celebrations

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive albums
seek deep introspective moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This EP solidified their reputation post-'Closer', showcasing their mainstream appeal.
Themes: late-night longing· dance floor vulnerability· millennial relationships
Career context: Released on November 4, 2016, 'Collage' came as The Chainsmokers' first extended play following their breakout success with singles like 'Closer'. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a duo known for individual hits to a staple act in the EDM scene, solidifying their presence with this collection of tracks.
Stylistic neighbors: Zedd· Calvin Harris· David Guetta

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

All We Know

The bridge introduces a powerful shift in emotion as vulnerability is laid bare through direct acknowledgments of personal struggles.

This moment stands out due to its stark contrast to earlier verses, emphasizing a raw honesty that deepens listener connection.