Duality cover

Released 12 years ago today

Duality

Set It Off · 2014

37 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A dynamic blend of theatrical pop-punk and alternative rock, layered with catchy hooks and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Wolf in Sheep's Clothing — This track exemplifies the album's theatricality with its clever lyrics about deception and betrayal, wrapped in an infectious melody that resonates with listeners.
  • →
    Why Worry — With its uplifting message and catchy chorus, this song stands out for its exploration of anxiety and resilience, making it relatable for many fans.
  • →
    The Haunting — Opening the album with a dramatic flair, this track sets the tone for the thematic exploration of inner struggles and personal demons throughout Duality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting but lacks consistent cohesion across its runtime.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a high energy level with fast tempos and layered instrumentation, while the second half introduces slower, more introspective tracks.
  • Several songs feature theatrical elements, such as spoken word sections and dramatic shifts in dynamics, particularly evident in 'Wolf in Sheep's Clothing'.
  • The lyrics often explore themes of personal struggle and self-identity, with a notable use of metaphor and vivid imagery throughout multiple tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo engagement
  • catchy sing-along moments
  • introspective themes with energy
  • for youthful nostalgia

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification
  • dislike cohesive listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on October 14, 2014, Duality was Set It Off's second studio album, following their debut, Cinematic. This album marked a significant step forward in their musical evolution, showcasing a more mature sound and deeper lyrical content as they sought to expand their reach within the alternative rock scene.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Why Worry

    The verses shift from self-doubt to empowerment through a repeated refrain that encourages perseverance.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Haunting 2:54
  • 2 N.M.E. 3:30
  • 3 Forever Stuck in Our Youth 3:15
  • 4 Why Worry 3:21
  • 5 Ancient History 3:15
  • 6 Bleak December 3:09
  • 7 Duality 4:04
  • 8 Wolf in Sheep's Clothing 3:10
  • 9 Tomorrow 3:37
  • 10 Bad Guy 3:11
  • 11 Miss Mysterious 4:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata