Four Wall Blackmail cover

Four Wall Blackmail

Dead Poetic · 2002

38 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A visceral blend of post-hardcore intensity and melodic alternative rock, steeped in lyrical introspection and atmospheric textures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Burgundy — The opening track sets a compelling tone with its mix of driving rhythms and poignant lyrics, effectively introducing listeners to the band's sound.
  • →
    Four Wall Blackmail — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of entrapment and personal struggle, featuring dynamic shifts that highlight the band's range.
  • →
    Tell Myself Goodbye — Closing the album, this track offers a hauntingly reflective conclusion that showcases both emotional weight and musical sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends post-hardcore intensity with melodic elements, showcasing strong lyrical themes and dynamic shifts.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming, establishing a high-energy opening that contrasts with the more melodic elements introduced in track four.
  • Lyrical themes of introspection and emotional struggle are prevalent, with verses often alternating between spoken word and sung choruses.
  • Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that create a sense of space, allowing for dynamic shifts between intensity and calm.
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
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Burgundy 3:43
  • 2 The Corporate Enthusiast 3:06
  • 3 A Green Desire 3:30
  • 4 Four Wall Blackmail 5:31
  • 5 August Winterman 4:02
  • 6 Ollie Otson 3:33
  • 7 Bliss Tearing Eyes 4:05
  • 8 Stereochild 4:20
  • 9 Arlington Arms 3:06
  • 10 Tell Myself Goodbye 3:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata