Death Grips cover

Death Grips

Death Grips · 2011

25 min · 6 tracks · hardcore hip-hop

A chaotic blend of aggressive beats and frenetic energy that pushes the boundaries of rap and punk aesthetics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Takyon (Death Yon) — With its relentless tempo and abrasive lyrics, this track exemplifies the group's signature intensity and serves as a manifesto of their sonic philosophy.
  • →
    Face Melter (How to Do Impossible Things) — This track's frenetic pacing and chaotic production showcase Death Grips' ability to merge punk sensibilities with electronic elements, defining their unique sound.
  • →
    Full Moon (Death Classic) — Integrating haunting melodies with powerful beats, this song demonstrates the band's experimental edge while maintaining an accessible hook that resonates with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

This EP's chaotic energy and genre-blending sound create a distinct and influential listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The EP opens with a track that features distorted vocals layered over aggressive percussion, setting a chaotic tone.
  • Each track maintains a high energy level, with rapid tempo changes and abrupt transitions that keep the listener engaged.
  • The production incorporates unconventional sounds, such as industrial noise and samples, which contribute to its experimental nature.
  • Vocals are often delivered in a shouted style, blending elements of punk rock with hip-hop delivery.
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
9/10

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

  • front-loaded energetic rush
  • challenging sound for adventurous listeners
  • short bursts of intensity
  • highly engaging headphone experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer smooth, laid-back sounds
  • seek long, immersive tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2011, this self-titled EP marked Death Grips' debut project, establishing their reputation for genre-blending experimentation. It arrived shortly after their formation in 2010, setting the stage for their groundbreaking approach to hip-hop and digital music.
Stylistic neighbors
Black Midi· Shabazz Palaces· Ho99o9

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Death Grips (Next Grips) 4:22
  • 2 Face Melter (How to Do Impossible Things) 3:31
  • 3 Full Moon (Death Classic) 3:49
  • 4 Known for It (Freak Grips) 4:15
  • 5 Takyon (Death Yon) 2:50
  • 6 Where’s It At (Death Heated) 6:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata