EP C/B EP cover

Released 20 years ago

EP C/B EP

Battles · 2006

66 min · 14 tracks · experimental rock

A complex tapestry of rhythm and texture that defies conventional structures while inviting listeners to engage with its intricate layers.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    BTTLS — As one of the longer tracks on the EP, BTTLS encapsulates the band's ability to weave together repetitive motifs into an immersive auditory experience, pushing the boundaries of song structure.
  • →
    DANCE — DANCE stands out for its infectious energy and accessible groove, contrasting with the more abstract elements of the EP while maintaining Battles' signature complexity.
  • →
    FANTASY — FANTASY exemplifies the intricate layering and dynamic shifts characteristic of Battles' sound, showcasing their skill at blending various influences into a cohesive piece.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate rhythms and textures, establishing Battles' distinct sound in experimental rock.

What we noticed

  • The album features a non-linear structure, with tracks often transitioning abruptly into one another without traditional verse-chorus forms.
  • The use of unconventional instrumentation, including guitar effects and electronic elements, contributes to a dense sonic texture throughout the record.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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
5/10

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

  • dynamic exploration with quiet moments
  • wave-like pacing with surprises
  • engaging headphone detail hunting
  • abstract soundscapes for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking straightforward song structures
  • prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2006, EP C/B EP was Battles' first major release after their acclaimed debut album, Mirrored. The band was solidifying their reputation for innovative and experimental rock, building on the momentum gained from their previous work. This EP showcases their evolving sound and sets the stage for their future projects.
Stylistic neighbors
Don Caballero· Tortoise· Hella

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • DANCE

    The bridge features an unexpected shift in tempo and instrumentation that disorients yet excites the listener.

    This structural pivot creates an exhilarating contrast that propels the track forward, reflecting Battles' knack for subverting expectations.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 SZ2 9:19
  • 2 TRAS 3 1:11
  • 3 IPT 2 1:49
  • 4 BTTLS 12:27
  • 5 DANCE 4:47
  • 6 TRAS 3:40

Disc 2

  • 1 B+T 6:09
  • 2 UW 3:00
  • 3 HI/LO 7:51
  • 4 IPT-2 1:35
  • 5 TRAS 2 5:55
  • 6 FANTASY 8:31
  • 14 [untitled] 0:04
  • 15 [untitled] 0:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata