What makes In the Fishtank 10 by Motorpsycho notable?

This album is significant for its innovative approach to the collaborative format, as it features free improvisational elements alongside structured compositions. It received positive critical reception, further solidifying Motorpsycho's reputation for genre-defying music, which influenced both contemporary progressive rock and the broader experimental music scene. By the time 'In the Fishtank 10' was released in 2003, Motorpsycho had already established themselves as a prominent force in the Norwegian rock scene. This album marked their first collaboration within the 'In the Fishtank' series, following their 2002 release 'Let Them Eat Cake', showcasing their willingness to explore new musical territories and push creative boundaries.

Who is In the Fishtank 10 for?

In the Fishtank 10 works well if you're into kaleidoscopic soundscapes to explore, long-form pieces for deep listening and dynamic shifts in pacing.

How many songs are on In the Fishtank 10?

In the Fishtank 10 has 5 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

In the Fishtank 10

Motorpsycho · 2003

46 min · 5 tracks · progressive rock

An experimental blend of progressive rock and improvisation, merging complex rhythms with expansive soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bombay Brassière — The opening track sets an eclectic tone with its fusion of jazz influences and rock dynamics, establishing the album's adventurous spirit right from the start.
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Pills, Powders and Passion Plays — Showcasing intricate instrumentation and shifting time signatures, this track exemplifies Motorpsycho's ability to blend intricate musicianship with engaging melodies.
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Tristano — At nearly twenty-one minutes long, this piece embodies the essence of the album's improvisational spirit while taking listeners on a deep sonic journey through varying moods and textures.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases a blend of structured and improvisational elements, making it distinctive within progressive rock.

What we noticed

The first track features a complex interplay of guitar and drums, establishing a dense soundscape that evolves over its duration.
The second track shifts to a more structured format with clear verses and choruses, contrasting the improvisational style of the opener.
The final two tracks incorporate jazz elements, with extended instrumental sections that allow for free-form exploration.

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

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

kaleidoscopic soundscapes to explore
long-form pieces for deep listening
dynamic shifts in pacing
immersive experience for curious minds

Maybe skip if you

prefer concise, standalone tracks
seek predictable song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Features a blend of improvisation with structured compositions, marking a departure in their sound.
Career context: By the time 'In the Fishtank 10' was released in 2003, Motorpsycho had already established themselves as a prominent force in the Norwegian rock scene. This album marked their first collaboration within the 'In the Fishtank' series, following their 2002 release 'Let Them Eat Cake', showcasing their willingness to explore new musical territories and push creative boundaries.
Stylistic neighbors: The Mars Volta· Porcupine Tree· Opeth