Dark Jovian cover

Dark Jovian

Amon Tobin · 2015

39 min · 8 tracks · electronic music

A mesmerizing blend of intricate soundscapes and immersive rhythms that dance between the realms of electronic and experimental music.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dark Jovian Start here — The title track sets the tone for the album with its rich textures and haunting melodies, encapsulating the overall atmosphere of exploration and wonder.
  • →
    Io — This track features dynamic shifts in rhythm and layered sounds, showcasing Tobin's masterful manipulation of space and time within musical composition.
  • →
    Encounter on Io — With its extended structure and evolving themes, this piece exemplifies Tobin's cinematic approach to sound design, creating an auditory journey that captivates listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
73 /100
Alpine
Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album excels in creating immersive soundscapes with intricate rhythms, showcasing Tobin's craftsmanship and cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The first five tracks create a continuous flow of sound, with each piece transitioning seamlessly into the next, maintaining a consistent atmosphere.
  • Several tracks utilize field recordings and manipulated samples, adding an organic quality to the electronic soundscapes.
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
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
9/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • steady progression with peaks
  • immersive soundscapes for focus
  • exploratory listening in solitude
  • rhythmic pulses for contemplation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases Amon Tobin's innovative approach, marking a significant evolution in his sound.
Career context
By 2015, Amon Tobin had established himself as a pioneer in electronic music, with 'Dark Jovian' being his first full-length album since 'ISAM' in 2011. This release marked a continued evolution in his sound, emphasizing atmospheric depth and complex production techniques as he explored new sonic territories.
Stylistic neighbors
Squarepusher· Bonobo· Boards of Canada

Tracklist

  • 1 Dark Jovian Start here 2:49
  • 2 In Your Own Time 3:07
  • 3 Adrastea Contact 4:25
  • 4 Io 6:30
  • 5 Encounter on Io 7:00
  • 6 Encounter on Io (Lee Gamble reshape) 7:08
  • 7 Adrastea Contact (Logos remix) 4:13
  • 8 In Your Own Time (Eprom remix) 3:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata