Dirty Projectors
Dirty Projectors · 2017
48 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock
Eclectic arrangements blend intricate harmonies with introspective lyrics, crafting an atmospheric journey through heartbreak and self-discovery.
Top tracks — play these first
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Up in Hudson — This track stands out for its lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics that reflect nostalgia and longing, encapsulating the album's central themes of reflection and heartache.
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Death Spiral — Characterized by its rhythmic complexity and haunting melodies, this song captures the feeling of disillusionment while maintaining an infectious groove, showcasing the band's unique approach to songwriting.
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Cool Your Heart — Featuring guest vocals from Syd from The Internet, this track blends R&B influences with art rock elements, highlighting the album's genre-defying nature and collaborative spirit.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends intricate arrangements with personal lyrics, creating a distinct sound that stands out in alternative rock.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a track that features layered vocal harmonies and a steady, driving rhythm, setting an introspective tone.
- The lyrics often explore themes of personal struggle and emotional complexity, with a focus on self-reflection.
- The final track features a gradual fade-out, leaving the listener with an unresolved feeling that echoes the album's themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- dynamic exploration of emotions
- wave-like pacing with surprises
- intimate narratives for reflection
- immersive headphone detail hunting
Maybe skip if you
- seeking straightforward, upbeat tracks
- prefer short, standalone songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Represents a departure from previous sound, reflecting personal changes within the band.
- Career context
- Released in 2017, this self-titled album marked a significant moment for Dirty Projectors as it was their first effort after a hiatus following the departure of key member Amber Coffman. The album reflects a personal and artistic reinvention for frontman David Longstreth, showcasing a shift towards more direct emotional expression and streamlined songwriting.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Grizzly Bear· Animal Collective· Tune-Yards
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Keep Your Name 4:30
- 2 Death Spiral 5:08
- 3 Up in Hudson 7:31
- 4 Work Together 4:23
- 5 Little Bubble 5:05
- 6 Winner Take Nothing 4:49
- 7 Ascent Through Clouds 6:55
- 8 Cool Your Heart 3:49
- 9 I See You 6:05
What to play next
Lamp Lit Prose
2018
Continues the introspective themes with a fresh, vibrant sound.
Swing Lo Magellan
2012
Sets the stage with similar experimental elements and lyrical depth.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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