Dataplex cover

Dataplex

Ryoji Ikeda · 2005

55 min · 20 tracks · electronic music

A labyrinth of glitchy textures and minimalist pulses, evoking the essence of data in an auditory landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    data.microhelix — This track stands out for its intricate layering of sounds that create a sense of depth and movement, embodying Ikeda's meticulous attention to sonic detail.
  • →
    data.vertex — With its captivating build-up and evolving textures, this piece encapsulates the dynamic interplay between order and chaos that characterizes the entire album.
  • →
    data.vortex — As one of the longer tracks, it allows for a deeper immersion into Ikeda's sound world, showcasing his ability to maintain tension and intrigue over an extended duration.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Dataplex showcases intricate sound design and thematic unity, marking it as a significant work in electronic music.

What we noticed

  • The album consists of 20 tracks, each named with a prefix 'data.' that suggests a thematic coherence around data structures.
  • Tracks feature glitchy textures and minimalist pulses, often layering sounds in complex ways that evolve over time.
  • Several pieces utilize silence and space effectively, creating a contrast between dense soundscapes and moments of quiet.
  • The overall structure is non-linear, with transitions that often blur the boundaries between individual tracks.
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
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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

  • immersive exploration of soundscapes
  • short bursts of auditory intrigue
  • ideal for focused listening sessions
  • labyrinthine textures that challenge perception
  • thought-provoking sonic experimentation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking conventional song structures
  • prefer melodic, lyrical content

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time Ryoji Ikeda released Dataplex in 2005, he had established himself as a prominent figure in the electronic avant-garde, following his critically acclaimed works such as 2002's Matrix. This album marked a continued exploration of his signature blend of sound art and mathematical precision, building on themes introduced in his earlier projects and further solidifying his reputation within the experimental music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Alva Noto· Fennesz· Oval

Tracklist

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

  • 1 data.index 1:39
  • 2 data.simplex 1:02
  • 3 data.duplex 0:53
  • 4 data.triplex 1:45
  • 5 data.multiplex 1:50
  • 6 data.complex 0:49
  • 7 data.hypercomplex 1:19
  • 8 data.googolplex 0:51
  • 9 data.microhelix 3:12
  • 10 data.superhelix 2:28
  • 11 data.minimax 3:08
  • 12 data.syntax 4:17
  • 13 data.telex 1:05
  • 14 data.flex 2:28
  • 15 data.reflex 4:16
  • 16 data.convex 1:28
  • 17 data.vertex 2:05
  • 18 data.vortex 5:48
  • 19 data.matrix 10:01
  • 20 data.adaplex 5:00

What to play next

Test Pattern
Listen next

Test Pattern

2008
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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata