Released 30 years ago
Don Solaris
808 State · 1996
55 min · 12 tracks · electronic music
A seamless blend of eclectic electronic textures and hypnotic beats that captures the experimental spirit of the mid-90s dance scene.
Top tracks — play these first
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Bond — This track combines intricate rhythms with melodic elements, creating a captivating atmosphere that exemplifies the album's innovative approach.
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Joyrider — Joyrider stands out with its infectious energy and driving beat, making it a dancefloor favorite while showcasing the group's ability to fuse genres.
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Azura — With ethereal synths and a contemplative mood, Azura represents a shift towards a more ambient sound that defines much of the album's character.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases innovative electronic textures and strong production, making it a notable entry in the genre.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a brief ambient track that sets a tranquil mood before transitioning into more rhythmic pieces.
- Several tracks feature layered synths and samples, creating a dense soundscape that evolves throughout each piece.
- The tempo varies across the album, with some tracks maintaining a steady beat while others explore more experimental structures.
- 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
- mesmerizing soundscapes
- intricate beats for focus
- exploratory journey through sound
- for late-night introspection
- evocative rhythms for creative work
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 1996, Don Solaris was 808 State's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed album, Gorgeous. By this time, the group had established themselves as pioneers in the acid house and electronic music scenes, transitioning into a more experimental phase that showcased their versatility.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Chemical Brothers· Orbital· Underworld
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:16
- 2 Bond 5:09
- 3 Bird 3:53
- 4 Azura 5:30
- 5 Black Dartangnon 5:30
- 6 Joyrider 4:40
- 7 Lopez 4:17
- 8 Balboa 5:14
- 9 Kohoutek 4:46
- 10 Mooz 4:35
- 11 Jerusahat 5:12
- 12 Banacheq 5:39
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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