What makes First Temple by Closure in Moscow notable?

The album received praise for its ambitious blend of genres, with critics noting its fresh approach to progressive rock. It helped establish Closure in Moscow as a significant player in the Australian music landscape, leading to tours alongside well-known acts and contributing to the rise of alternative rock in the late 2000s. First Temple is Closure in Moscow's debut album, released in January 2009. At this point, the band was emerging from the Australian music scene, having garnered attention for their energetic live performances and unique sound. This album set the stage for their future endeavors and artistic exploration.

How many songs are on First Temple?

First Temple has 12 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

First Temple

Closure in Moscow · 2009

44 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

Eclectic soundscapes weave together progressive rock intricacies with alternative melodies, creating an immersive auditory experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kissing Cousins — Opening with a punchy rhythm and dynamic vocals, this track encapsulates the band's energetic style and introduces their eclectic sound palette.
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Reindeer Age — This song showcases intricate guitar work and lyrical depth, highlighting the band's ability to blend technical skill with emotive storytelling.
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Sweet#hart — With its catchy chorus and driving beat, this track reflects the band's knack for crafting memorable hooks within complex musical structures.
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A Night at the Spleen — This track stands out for its atmospheric build-up and lyrical exploration of introspection, demonstrating the band's range beyond upbeat tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases eclectic compositions with varied structures but lacks a strong cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

The album features frequent shifts in tempo and dynamics, with tracks alternating between high-energy sections and quieter, introspective moments.
Vocal melodies often intertwine with intricate guitar work, creating a layered sound that emphasizes both harmony and dissonance.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as extended instrumental passages and abrupt transitions.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Reindeer Age

A shift occurs when the narrative voice transitions from reflective to confrontational, challenging perceptions directly.

This pivot in perspective deepens the emotional impact, allowing listeners to engage with both vulnerability and assertiveness.

Tracklist

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

1 Kissing Cousins 4:02
2 Reindeer Age 3:54
3 Sweet#hart 4:05
4 Vanguard 3:49
5 A Night at the Spleen 3:56
6 I’m a Ghost of Twilight 3:58
7 Permafrost 3:38
8 Deluge 3:51
9 Afterbirth 3:35
10 Arecibo Message 4:26
11 Couldn’t Let You Love Me 1:06
12 Had to Put It in the Soil 4:27

What to play next

Listen next

Pink Lemonade

2014

Go back to

The Penance and the Patience

2008

Full Closure in Moscow discography Artists like Closure in Moscow

alternative rock progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata