What makes Face First by Tribal Tech notable?

Face First received positive reviews from critics, showcasing Tribal Tech's unique blend of genres that helped define the progressive rock movement of the early '90s. The album is notable for its intricate musicianship and has influenced numerous artists in the fusion and progressive rock landscapes. Released in 1993, Face First was Tribal Tech's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Thick in the Head. At this point in their career, the band had established a reputation for their complex compositions and improvisational style, further solidifying their influence within the progressive rock scene.

How many songs are on Face First?

Face First has 11 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Face First

Tribal Tech · 1993

70 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock

Innovative fusion of progressive rock and jazz elements, driven by intricate rhythms and virtuosic instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Face First — The opening track sets the tone with its dynamic shifts and showcases the band's technical prowess, making it a definitive statement of their sound.
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Canine — This track features an infectious groove and complex time signatures that highlight the band's ability to blend jazz influences with rock energy.
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After Hours — A standout piece that combines atmospheric elements with intricate guitar work, it exemplifies the album’s emotional depth and creativity.

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 musicianship and genre fusion, making it distinctive yet occasionally challenging to follow.

What we noticed

Instrumental sections often showcase extended improvisation, allowing each musician to explore their parts without strict adherence to a melody.
Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes, creating a sense of unpredictability that challenges the listener's expectations.

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