What makes Derelicts by Carbon Based Lifeforms notable?

'Derelicts' received critical acclaim for its lush soundscapes and deep atmospheric qualities, solidifying Carbon Based Lifeforms' position as pioneers in ambient music. The album's standout tracks have made significant impressions in various electronic and ambient playlists, contributing to the resurgence of interest in long-form ambient compositions. Released on January 1, 2017, 'Derelicts' marks Carbon Based Lifeforms' first album in nearly a decade since 'Interloper' in 2010. At this point in their career, the duo sought to explore even deeper sonic environments and expand their signature ambient style, building upon their established reputation in the genre.

Who is Derelicts for?

Derelicts works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Derelicts?

Derelicts has 12 tracks, running approximately 78 minutes.

Derelicts

Carbon Based Lifeforms · 2017

78 min · 12 tracks · ambient music

Expansive soundscapes intertwine with intricate textures, creating an immersive journey through ambient realms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Accede — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its ethereal synths and gentle rhythms, immersing listeners in a tranquil soundscape that previews the expansive journey ahead.
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Derelicts — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with haunting melodies and layered textures that evoke a sense of desolation and beauty, making it a focal point of the listening experience.
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Equilibrium — This track showcases a compelling balance between serene harmonies and dynamic movement, illustrating the duo's ability to create tension and release within an ambient context.
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Everwave — Closing the album with a lengthy, deeply immersive piece, 'Everwave' invites listeners into a meditative space that lingers long after the final notes fade, exemplifying the album’s overarching themes of exploration and introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album excels in creating expansive soundscapes with intricate textures, making it a strong entry in ambient music.

What we noticed

The album features long, evolving tracks that often exceed six minutes, allowing for gradual development of themes.
Each track employs layered synth textures that create a sense of depth and space, enhancing the immersive quality.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2017, 'Derelicts' marks Carbon Based Lifeforms' first album in nearly a decade since 'Interloper' in 2010. At this point in their career, the duo sought to explore even deeper sonic environments and expand their signature ambient style, building upon their established reputation in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Solar Fields· Aes Dana· Biosphere