What makes Epicloud by Devin Townsend Project notable?

Epicloud received critical acclaim upon release, praised for its ambitious orchestration and strong songwriting. The album debuted at number 21 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums chart, solidifying Townsend's reputation in the progressive metal scene and influencing subsequent artists seeking to blend heaviness with melodic optimism. At the time of its release in 2012, Epicloud was the fourth studio album by the Devin Townsend Project, following the ambitious and darker record, Deconstruction. This album represented a shift towards a more accessible sound, showcasing Townsend's ability to merge heavy music with uplifting themes. It marked a pivotal moment in his career as he embraced a more positive and expansive musical direction.

Epicloud works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Epicloud?

Epicloud has 23 tracks, running approximately 97 minutes.

Epicloud

Devin Townsend Project · 2012

97 min · 23 tracks

Epicloud blends soaring melodies and progressive metal intricacies with a vibrant, joyful energy that encapsulates Devin Townsend's eclectic vision.

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Top tracks — play these first

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True North — This track exemplifies the album's optimistic tone, featuring powerful vocal hooks layered over dynamic instrumentation that captures the essence of personal liberation.
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Kingdom — With its epic structure and anthemic chorus, this song highlights Townsend's knack for marrying heavy riffs with uplifting lyrics about hope and perseverance.
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Grace — This track stands out for its emotional depth, combining haunting melodies with heartfelt lyrics that reflect on vulnerability and acceptance, showcasing Townsend's lyrical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Epicloud combines energetic melodies with orchestration, creating a distinct sound within progressive metal.

What we noticed

The first six tracks maintain a high energy level with driving rhythms and layered vocals, while the seventh track introduces a more contemplative tone.
The album includes orchestral elements that enhance the melodic lines, particularly in the choruses of songs like 'Kingdom' and 'Grace'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: At the time of its release in 2012, Epicloud was the fourth studio album by the Devin Townsend Project, following the ambitious and darker record, Deconstruction. This album represented a shift towards a more accessible sound, showcasing Townsend's ability to merge heavy music with uplifting themes. It marked a pivotal moment in his career as he embraced a more positive and expansive musical direction.