Individ cover

Individ

The Dodos · 2015

38 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock

A tapestry of intricate guitar work and rhythmic percussion layered with introspective lyrics, evoking a sense of personal exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Precipitation — The opening track sets the tone with its expansive soundscape and poignant reflections on change, establishing thematic continuity for the album.
  • →
    Competition — This track contrasts upbeat melodies with lyrically charged content, showcasing the band's ability to blend lightness with deeper emotional struggles.
  • →
    Goodbyes and Endings — Here, the use of dynamic shifts creates an evocative atmosphere that encapsulates themes of farewell and closure, resonating throughout the album's narrative.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The Dodos blend intricate guitar work with introspective lyrics, creating a solid yet uneven listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature intricate guitar melodies that intertwine with syncopated percussion, establishing a rhythmic foundation.
  • The album shifts to a more subdued tone in the middle section, particularly with 'Darkness' and 'Goodbyes and Endings', which slow the tempo significantly.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, creating a rich texture that complements the introspective lyrics.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • meditative moments for reflection
  • steady pacing with gradual build
  • intricate layers of emotional depth
  • thoughtful background for creativity

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Individ marks The Dodos' fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Carrier in 2013. At this point, the band was solidifying their unique sound while facing the challenges of maintaining momentum in an evolving indie rock landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Fleet Foxes· Sufjan Stevens· Grizzly Bear

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Precipitation 6:10
  • 2 The Tide 3:25
  • 3 Bubble 3:12
  • 4 Competition 3:19
  • 5 Darkness 3:53
  • 6 Goodbyes and Endings 4:32
  • 7 Retriever 4:36
  • 8 Bastard 2:23
  • 9 Pattern/Shadow 7:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata