Death Magic cover

Death Magic

Health · 2015

39 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

Aggressive synths intermingle with haunting melodies, creating a visceral soundscape that oscillates between chaos and catharsis.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Stonefist — This track encapsulates the album's aggressive energy with its driving beats and distorted vocals, setting a tone that resonates throughout the project.
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    Flesh World (UK) — The song showcases a dynamic interplay between harsh instrumentals and ethereal vocals, reflecting the thematic contrasts present in the album.
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    Dark Enough — With its haunting atmosphere and introspective lyrics, this track stands out as a poignant moment of vulnerability amidst the chaos of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

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

The album blends aggressive noise rock with electronic elements, showcasing strong production and distinct sound.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that sets an aggressive tone, followed by a shift to more melodic elements in the second track.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between chaotic noise and quieter, introspective moments, creating a push-and-pull dynamic.
  • The use of layered synths and distorted vocals is prevalent throughout, contributing to a dense soundscape that often feels overwhelming.
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 5/10

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 intensity throughout experience
  • chaotic energy for late nights
  • melodic hooks with dark undertones
  • engaging journey with resolution

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • avoid complex sonic explorations

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Death Magic' was released in 2015, Health was transitioning from their experimental roots into a more polished sound, following their critically acclaimed album 'Get Color' in 2009. This record marked their return after a six-year hiatus, showcasing an evolution in both production and songwriting as they navigated the indie rock landscape.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Victim 2:00
  • 2 Stonefist 3:24
  • 3 Men Today 2:03
  • 4 Flesh World (UK) 3:54
  • 5 Courtship II 3:35
  • 6 Dark Enough 3:42
  • 7 Life 3:53
  • 8 Salvia 1:48
  • 9 New Coke 3:39
  • 10 L.A. Looks 3:24
  • 11 Hurt Yourself 4:10
  • 12 Drugs Exist 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata