Copper Gone
Sage Francis · 2014
54 min · 14 tracks · hip-hop
A blend of introspective lyricism and experimental beats that pushes the boundaries of alternative hip-hop.
Top tracks — play these first
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Pressure Cooker — This opening track sets the tone with its urgent flow and vivid imagery, illustrating the internal pressures faced by the artist.
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Id Thieves — In this track, Francis critiques societal norms through sharp wordplay and commentary on identity theft, making it a standout example of his thought-provoking style.
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The Place She Feared Most — This song delves into themes of fear and vulnerability, showcasing Francis's ability to convey complex emotions through layered storytelling.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases innovative production and varied lyrical styles, making it a strong entry in alternative hip-hop.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features dense, layered production with complex rhythms, while the second half shifts to more minimalist beats and introspective themes.
- Sage Francis employs varied vocal delivery styles, alternating between rapid-fire verses and slower, more contemplative flows throughout the tracks.
- Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt transitions and unexpected beat changes that challenge traditional hip-hop formats.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- steady pacing for deep reflection
- introspective lyrics for personal exploration
- consistent flow encourages full listen
- raw soundscapes evoke contemplative moods
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer standalone hit tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in early 2014, Copper Gone is Sage Francis's first album in over five years since Li(f)e (2007), marking a significant return to form. At this point in his career, he had already established himself as an influential figure in underground hip-hop, but this album showcased a refined sound and deeper lyrical introspection.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Aesop Rock· Atmosphere· Brother Ali
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Grace
The narrative shifts from personal struggle to a broader commentary on societal expectations and forgiveness.
This transition not only underscores the conflict between personal pain and external pressures but also emphasizes Francis's skill in addressing larger themes within intimate narratives.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Pressure Cooker 4:02
- 2 Grace 3:28
- 3 Id Thieves 3:16
- 4 Cheat Code 4:05
- 5 Dead Man’s Float 4:08
- 6 Over Under 2:48
- 7 Make Em Purr 3:40
- 8 Vonnegut Busy 4:50
- 9 Thank You 3:52
- 10 The Set Up 4:05
- 11 The Place She Feared Most 3:10
- 12 Once Upon a Blood Moon 4:23
- 13 Say Uncle 4:14
- 14 Maint Reqd 4:03
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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