What makes Cyclops Reap by Tim Presley notable?

Cyclops Reap received critical acclaim upon its release, particularly for its unique sound and lyrical depth, landing features in prominent publications such as Pitchfork and The Guardian. The album has since been recognized for its influence on the lo-fi and garage rock revival of the early 2010s, as it encapsulates the DIY ethos of that era while pushing sonic boundaries. Released in 2013, Cyclops Reap marked Tim Presley's first full-length album under his own name following his work with the band White Fence. By this time, Presley had already established himself as a prolific figure in the underground music scene, contributing to various projects that showcased his distinctive blend of psychedelic and garage influences.

How many songs are on Cyclops Reap?

Cyclops Reap has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Cyclops Reap

Tim Presley · 2013

37 min · 11 tracks · garage rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of lo-fi garage rock and introspective lyricism, infused with an experimental edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Chairs in the Dark — Opening with a haunting melody, this track establishes the album's introspective tone while showcasing Presley's keen lyrical prowess and melodic sensibility.
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Only Man Alive — This track stands out with its poignant exploration of isolation and existential themes, delivered through catchy hooks that linger long after listening.
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Pink Gorilla — With its playful yet dark undertones, this song exemplifies Presley's ability to merge whimsical imagery with more serious subject matter, creating a compelling contrast.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends lo-fi garage rock with introspective lyrics, creating a unique yet somewhat uneven listening experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo shifts, such as 'Beat' which transitions from a slow groove to a frenetic pace.

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

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Chairs in the Dark 3:11
2 Beat 3:18
3 Pink Gorilla 2:30
4 Trouble Is Trouble Never Seen 2:44
5 Live on Genevieve 2:41
6 To the Boy I Jumped in the Hemlock Alley 2:52
7 New Edinburgh 4:23
8 Make Them Dinner at Our Shoes 4:16
9 White Cat 3:56
10 Only Man Alive 2:54
11 Run by the Same 4:34

What to play next

Listen next

For the Recently Found Innocent

2014

Go back to

Family Perfume

2012

Full Tim Presley discography Artists like Tim Presley

garage rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata