Exquisite Corpse cover

Exquisite Corpse

Warpaint · 2008

33 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

Hypnotic rhythms intertwine with ethereal harmonies, creating a dreamlike soundscape that blurs the lines between pop and experimental rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Stars — The opening track sets the tone with its mesmerizing blend of layered vocals and intricate instrumentation, encapsulating the band's signature ethereal style.
  • →
    Elephants — This track showcases Warpaint's ability to create tension through dynamic shifts, featuring haunting melodies that linger long after it ends.
  • →
    Billie Holiday — With its moody atmosphere and introspective lyrics, this song highlights the band's lyrical depth while maintaining a captivating musicality throughout.

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

The EP showcases strong songwriting and unique soundscapes while establishing Warpaint's identity in alternative rock.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a steady, hypnotic drum pattern that persists throughout the EP, creating a trance-like atmosphere.
  • Vocals are layered and often harmonized, with multiple singers contributing to a cohesive yet ethereal sound.
  • Each track features a distinct instrumental arrangement, with guitars and bass weaving in and out of the mix, enhancing the dreamlike quality.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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

  • dreamlike soundscapes for introspection
  • hypnotic rhythms for late-night focus
  • immersive journey through emotional landscapes
  • gentle ebb and flow dynamics

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in early 2008, Exquisite Corpse was Warpaint's debut EP, marking their arrival on the indie music scene. At this point, the band was still refining their identity, having formed just two years prior and quickly gaining attention for their unique blend of art rock and atmospheric sounds.
Stylistic neighbors
Beach House· Bat for Lashes· Tame Impala

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Burgundy

    The verse employs a repeated melodic motif that gradually shifts in harmony, inviting listeners into a deeper emotional space.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Stars 6:26
  • 2 Elephants 4:45
  • 3 Billie Holiday 6:45
  • 4 Beetles 6:58
  • 5 Burgundy 4:41
  • 6 Krimson 4:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata