What makes Here Be Monsters by Motorpsycho notable?

The album received widespread acclaim from critics, further solidifying Motorpsycho's place in the progressive rock genre. Its intricate compositions and experimental approach helped it achieve high positions on various music charts in Norway, reflecting the band's lasting influence on the scene. Released on February 12, 2016, 'Here Be Monsters' is Motorpsycho's first album following their 2013 release 'Still Life With Eggplant'. At this point in their career, the band continued to explore and expand their distinctive sound, integrating elements of jazz and avant-garde into their established progressive rock framework.

Who is Here Be Monsters for?

Here Be Monsters works well if you're into sprawling journeys of sound, patient exploration of themes and cathartic crescendos and valleys.

How many songs are on Here Be Monsters?

Here Be Monsters has 7 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Here Be Monsters

Motorpsycho · 2016

46 min · 7 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling journey through progressive rock, blending intricate melodies with heavy, rhythmic undertones and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lacuna/Sunrise — This track showcases the band's signature ability to weave complex musical narratives, seamlessly transitioning between atmospheric passages and powerful crescendos.
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Big Black Dog — As the longest track on the album, it epitomizes Motorpsycho's adventurous spirit, merging various musical styles while maintaining a cohesive emotional core.
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Running With Scissors — This song stands out for its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks, offering a more accessible entry point into the album's deeper themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and dynamic shifts, making it a rewarding listen over time.

What we noticed

The album features extended tracks, with three of the seven exceeding six minutes, allowing for gradual development of themes.
Several songs incorporate shifts in tempo and dynamics, creating a sense of movement and tension throughout the record.
The lyrics often reflect introspective themes, with vocal melodies that intertwine with complex instrumental arrangements.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

sprawling journeys of sound
patient exploration of themes
cathartic crescendos and valleys
immersive headphone experience

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, standalone tracks
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic exploration and acclaim within their discography.
Career context: Released on February 12, 2016, 'Here Be Monsters' is Motorpsycho's first album following their 2013 release 'Still Life With Eggplant'. At this point in their career, the band continued to explore and expand their distinctive sound, integrating elements of jazz and avant-garde into their established progressive rock framework.
Stylistic neighbors: The Mars Volta· Porcupine Tree· Opeth