Is Controlling Crowds – Part IV a good place to start with Archive?

Yes, Controlling Crowds – Part IV is recommended as a starting point for new Archive listeners. A haunting blend of atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that meld alternative rock with trip hop rhythms. In 2009, Archive was in a phase of artistic expansion following their previous release, 'Controlling Crowds – Part III' from 2008. This album marked their continued exploration of complex themes and sound textures, reinforcing their position within the progressive rock and alternative scenes.

Who is Controlling Crowds – Part IV for?

Controlling Crowds – Part IV works well if you're into contemplative soundscape for introspection, steady pacing with emotional peaks and atmospheric depth for headphone listening.

How many songs are on Controlling Crowds – Part IV?

Controlling Crowds – Part IV has 11 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Controlling Crowds – Part IV

Archive · 2009

48 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that meld alternative rock with trip hop rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Pills Start here — The opening track sets a reflective tone with its moody instrumentation and contemplative lyrics about dependency, showcasing the album's thematic depth.
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The Empty Bottle — With its dynamic build-up and emotional intensity, this track exemplifies Archive's ability to weave intricate narratives through music, resonating with listeners on multiple levels.
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Thought Conditioning — This track features an engaging interplay between ethereal vocals and driving rhythms, highlighting the band's unique sound and lyrical complexity.
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Blood in Numbers — A stark commentary on societal issues, this song blends powerful lyrics with a gripping sonic landscape, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends atmospheric soundscapes with varied vocal styles, creating a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that build gradually in intensity, while the second half shifts to more subdued and introspective pieces.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements interspersed with melodic vocals, creating a layered narrative effect.
The use of electronic textures alongside traditional rock instrumentation creates a dynamic contrast throughout the record.

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

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

contemplative soundscape for introspection
steady pacing with emotional peaks
atmospheric depth for headphone listening
engaging flow through entire album

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — This album showcases Archive's artistic expansion and complex themes, receiving critical acclaim.
Themes: dependency narratives· societal commentary· moody soundscapes
Career context: In 2009, Archive was in a phase of artistic expansion following their previous release, 'Controlling Crowds – Part III' from 2008. This album marked their continued exploration of complex themes and sound textures, reinforcing their position within the progressive rock and alternative scenes.
Stylistic neighbors: Massive Attack· Portishead· Radiohead