Documentaly cover

Documentaly

Sakanaction · 2011

54 min · 13 tracks · J-pop

A vibrant fusion of J-pop and alternative rock, layered with electronic textures and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    アイデンティティ Start here — This track captures the essence of self-exploration through its catchy melody and dynamic arrangement, representing the album's thematic core of identity.
  • →
    モノクロトウキョー — With its vivid imagery and rhythmic complexity, this song reflects urban life in Tokyo, showcasing Sakanaction’s knack for blending storytelling with infectious beats.
  • →
    ルーキー — This track stands out with its energetic tempo and uplifting themes of ambition, encapsulating the album's drive and youthful spirit.

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 J-pop with alternative rock and electronic textures, showcasing strong writing and production.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with driving rhythms, while the second half shifts to more introspective and slower tempos.
  • Several tracks incorporate electronic elements that blend seamlessly with traditional rock instrumentation, creating a layered sound.
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 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

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative urban reflections

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Documentaly showcases innovative sound and received critical acclaim, marking a high point in their career.
Themes
Tokyo's monochrome lifestyle· urban identity crisis· experimental soundscapes
Career context
When Documentaly was released in September 2011, Sakanaction was transitioning from their breakthrough album, Shin-shin, which had established them as a key player in the Japanese music scene. This third studio album solidified their experimental approach, showcasing their ability to blend genres while gaining wider recognition beyond Japan's indie circles.
Stylistic neighbors
Cornelius· Kyary Pamyu Pamyu· Nujabes

Tracklist

  • 1 RL 0:42
  • 2 アイデンティティ Start here 4:10
  • 3 モノクロトウキョー 3:58
  • 4 ルーキー 5:21
  • 5 アンタレスと針 4:02
  • 6 仮面の街 3:35
  • 7 流線 6:05
  • 8 エンドレス 3:47
  • 9 DocumentaRy 4:08
  • 10 『バッハの旋律を夜に聴いたせいです。』 4:00
  • 11 years 4:23
  • 12 ドキュメント 4:49
  • 13 ホーリーダンス Like a live Mix 5:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata