What makes In the Fishtank 12 by Karate notable?

This album is significant for its unique format, where established artists reinterpret songs in a studio setting without overdubs, showcasing raw performances. It received positive critical reception and highlighted Karate's influence on the indie rock genre, particularly in how they approached lyrical themes and musical experimentation. In the Fishtank 12 marked Karate's fifth release overall and their first foray into the collaborative In the Fishtank series. By this time, they had established themselves in the indie rock scene since their debut in 1996, refining their sound and approach to songwriting across several albums. This project illustrates a moment of artistic exploration as they reinterpret classic songs alongside original compositions.

How many songs are on In the Fishtank 12?

In the Fishtank 12 has 8 tracks, running approximately 21 minutes.

In the Fishtank 12

Karate · 2005

21 min · 8 tracks · indie rock

A raw, experimental journey blending indie rock with poignant covers and biting social commentary.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Strange Fruit — This haunting cover transforms Billie Holiday's iconic protest song into a stark and chilling experience, emphasizing its still-relevant message against racial injustice.
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Tears of Rage — Originally by The Band, Karate’s rendition brings a contemplative depth to the lyrics while maintaining a sense of urgency that resonates with contemporary listeners.
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Bob Dylan Wrote Propaganda Songs — This track critiques the use of music for political agendas, demonstrating Karate's ability to blend insightful commentary with compelling musicality in a concise format.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The EP's raw performances and unique arrangements create a compelling but uneven listening experience.

What we noticed

Tracks are performed without overdubs, creating an unpolished sound that highlights the band's live performance energy.
The first three tracks maintain a consistent tempo, while the latter half introduces more varied pacing and dynamics.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Strange Fruit 2:18
2 The Only Minority 1:03
3 Tears of Rage 4:12
4 Bob Dylan Wrote Propaganda Songs 1:35
5 Need a Job 2:20
6 This Ain't No Picnic 1:55
7 Colors 2:29
8 A New Jeruselem 5:37

What to play next

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2004

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indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata