Dead
Young Fathers · 2014
34 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop
Eclectic soundscapes merge haunting vocals with introspective lyrics, creating an immersive experience that defies easy categorization.
Top tracks — play these first
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No Way — This opening track sets a haunting tone with its layered harmonies and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the album's emotional depth.
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War — With its urgent rhythm and sharp social commentary, this track stands out as a critique of conflict and societal struggles, showcasing the band's lyrical prowess.
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Mmmh Mmmh — The song's infectious hook and intricate production highlight Young Fathers' ability to blend catchy melodies with profound themes of identity and belonging.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic sound and unconventional structures create a distinct listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a track that features layered vocal harmonies and a minimalist beat, setting a tone of introspection.
- Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes, such as 'War', which shifts from a slow build to a frenetic climax.
- The use of unconventional song structures is evident, with multiple tracks featuring non-repetitive arrangements and varied dynamics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- 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
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
- frenetic energy for active listening
- short bursts of emotional intensity
- raw vocals driving urgency
- quick-paced tracks for attention
- challenging sounds that provoke thought
Maybe skip if you
- prefer smoother, longer songs
- seek predictable song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Dead' was released in January 2014, Young Fathers were on the rise after their debut EP, 'Tape One', garnered critical acclaim. This album marked their first full-length release and showcased their unique blend of hip-hop, pop, and experimental sounds, solidifying their position in the UK music scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Shabazz Palaces· Death Grips· Run the Jewels
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Just Another Bullet
The narrative shifts to confront mortality directly through stark imagery.
This shift emphasizes the raw vulnerability present throughout the album, contrasting personal introspection with broader existential themes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 No Way 2:49
- 2 Low 3:11
- 3 Just Another Bullet 2:37
- 4 War 2:50
- 5 Get Up 3:51
- 6 Dip 3:03
- 7 Paying 3:12
- 8 Mmmh Mmmh 3:31
- 9 Hangman 2:53
- 10 Am I Not Your Boy 3:08
- 11 I've Arrived 3:22
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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