GoGo Penguin cover

GoGo Penguin

GoGo Penguin · 2020

43 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A seamless fusion of jazz, electronic textures, and minimalist melodies that invites introspection and movement.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Atomised — The track captures the band's unique blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic beauty, showcasing their talent for creating dynamic soundscapes that invite deep listening.
  • →
    Signal in the Noise — This piece exemplifies the group's ability to weave intricate melodies through an atmospheric backdrop, creating a sense of tension and release that resonates throughout the album.
  • →
    Kora — The incorporation of diverse musical influences in this track reflects GoGo Penguin’s commitment to innovation while maintaining a core jazz essence, highlighting their versatility as artists.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
73 /100
Alpine
Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions with strong cohesion and depth, inviting repeated listens.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of electronic elements layered over acoustic instruments, creating a textural depth that evolves throughout the tracks.
  • Each track typically builds from a minimalist melody, gradually adding complexity through rhythmic variations and dynamic shifts.
  • Several tracks incorporate abrupt transitions, such as 'Kora' moving from a serene passage to an energetic climax, which challenges listener expectations.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
9/10

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

  • intricate rhythms that invite focus
  • uplifting moments of sonic exploration
  • thoughtful soundscapes for deep listening
  • dynamic interplay between instruments
  • pulsing energy for creative work

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of straightforward melodies
  • prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
GoGo Penguin's self-titled album is their fifth studio release, following the critically acclaimed 'A Humdrum Star' from 2018. By this point in their career, the band had firmly established themselves within the contemporary jazz scene, blending traditional elements with modern influences and earning a reputation for their innovative approach.
Stylistic neighbors
Portico Quartet· BadBadNotGood· Phronesis

Tracklist

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

  • 1 1_# 2:02
  • 2 Atomised 4:23
  • 3 Signal in the Noise 6:03
  • 4 Open 4:47
  • 5 F Maj Pixie 5:48
  • 6 Kora 5:35
  • 7 Totem 3:54
  • 8 Embers 3:00
  • 9 To the Nth 4:34
  • 10 Don’t Go 3:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata