Don't Shoot the Messenger
Puscifer · 2007
18 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock
A surreal blend of electronic textures and haunting vocals that challenges conventional rock structures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Trekka (Sean Beaven mix) — This track encapsulates the album's experimental spirit, featuring layered soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional rock.
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REV 22:20 — The song's rich textures and thought-provoking lyrics exemplify Puscifer’s ability to combine philosophical themes with compelling music.
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The Undertaker (Renholdër mix) — With its driving beat and eerie atmosphere, this track highlights the band’s knack for creating tension through sound and lyricism.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP blends industrial rock and electronic elements effectively, but its experimental nature may limit broader appeal.
What we noticed
- The first track features a heavy use of electronic beats layered with distorted guitar riffs, creating a dense soundscape.
- The second track incorporates haunting vocal harmonies that intertwine with minimalist instrumentation, emphasizing atmosphere over traditional song structure.
- The EP concludes with another remix of the second track, which alters its dynamics and adds new electronic elements.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This EP helped solidify Puscifer's identity and gain wider recognition.
- Career context
- Released in early 2007, Don't Shoot the Messenger marked Puscifer's first full-length album after a series of EPs and singles. This project came during a period of exploration for Maynard James Keenan, as he was also involved with Tool and A Perfect Circle, further showcasing his versatility and creative breadth.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tool· A Perfect Circle· Nine Inch Nails
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Trekka (Sean Beaven mix) 4:47
- 2 REV 22:20 4:39
- 3 The Undertaker (Renholdër mix) 3:55
- 4 REV 22:20 (REV 4:20 mix) 4:47
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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