What makes Ice on the Dune by Empire of the Sun notable?

The album debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart and received positive reviews for its catchy melodies and expansive production. It marked a significant moment for the band as they continued to influence the electronic pop landscape with tracks like Alive, which became an anthem in various media. Released on June 14, 2013, Ice on the Dune is Empire of the Sun's sophomore album, following their breakthrough debut, Walking on a Dream. The band sought to expand their sound while maintaining their signature theatricality and visual flair, solidifying their presence in the alternative and electronic music scenes.

Who is Ice on the Dune for?

Ice on the Dune works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, uplifting anthems for celebration and dreamlike melodies for daydreaming.

How many songs are on Ice on the Dune?

Ice on the Dune has 12 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Ice on the Dune

Empire of the Sun · 2013

43 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of synth-pop and glam rock that transports listeners to a euphoric, sun-soaked dreamscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Alive — This track encapsulates the album's euphoric spirit with infectious hooks and an uplifting chorus that became emblematic of the band's sound.
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DNA — With its pulsating beats and striking lyrics about identity, DNA showcases the duo's knack for blending meaningful themes with danceable rhythms.
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Ice on the Dune — The title track weaves atmospheric instrumentals with a sense of grandeur, reflecting the band's artistic vision and distinctive style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album combines catchy melodies with theatrical production, creating a distinct sound that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and layered synths, establishing a vibrant energy that persists through much of the album.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements or interludes, such as 'Concert Pitch', which create pauses in the flow without losing thematic continuity.
The album closes with 'Keep a Watch', which features a gradual build-up to an expansive climax, contrasting with earlier tracks' more immediate hooks.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo dance vibes
uplifting anthems for celebration
dreamlike melodies for daydreaming
for upbeat gatherings
inviting sing-alongs with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, introspective sounds
seek heavy lyrical depth

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on June 14, 2013, Ice on the Dune is Empire of the Sun's sophomore album, following their breakthrough debut, Walking on a Dream. The band sought to expand their sound while maintaining their signature theatricality and visual flair, solidifying their presence in the alternative and electronic music scenes.
Stylistic neighbors: MGMT· Passion Pit· Cut Copy