Cor Cordium cover

Cor Cordium

Glass Hammer · 2011

62 min · 6 tracks · progressive rock

Ethereal melodies intertwine with complex rhythms, creating a lush soundscape that embodies the essence of modern progressive rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Nothing Box Start here — The opening track sets the stage with its sprawling arrangement and profound thematic exploration, encapsulating the band's signature sound and lyrical weight.
  • →
    Dear Daddy — This emotionally charged piece features intricate instrumentation and poignant lyrics that delve into personal themes, making it a standout moment on the album.
  • →
    To Someone — At over eighteen minutes long, this epic track showcases the band’s progressive tendencies with dynamic shifts and a narrative structure that keeps listeners engaged throughout.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases complex compositions and strong production but remains within familiar progressive rock territory.

What we noticed

  • The album features lengthy tracks, with four of the six exceeding seven minutes, allowing for extended instrumental passages and thematic development.
  • Vocal harmonies are layered intricately, often blending with the instrumentation rather than standing apart, as heard in 'One Heart'.
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
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • gradual build to emotional climax
  • nostalgic melodies for reflection
  • introspective journeys with patience
  • immersive listening in quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of quick gratification
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases ambitious progressive rock, solidifying their reputation in the genre.
Career context
By the time Glass Hammer released Cor Cordium in 2011, they were well-established in the progressive rock scene, following their acclaimed album 'Threading the Needle' from 2009. This release marked a continuation of their artistic evolution, showcasing their ability to blend intricate compositions with lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors
The Flower Kings· Spock's Beard· Yes

Tracklist

  • 1 Nothing Box Start here 10:53
  • 2 One Heart 6:20
  • 3 Salvation Station 5:08
  • 4 Dear Daddy 10:30
  • 5 To Someone 18:15
  • 6 She, a Lonely Tower 10:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata