What makes It Overtakes Me by The Flaming Lips notable?

The album is notable for its unique sonic experimentation, which garnered positive reviews from critics and showcased the band's influence on the alternative rock scene. It also received significant attention for its introspective lyrics that tackle themes of mortality and existentialism, resonating with listeners during a time of personal and cultural uncertainty. In 2006, The Flaming Lips released 'It Overtakes Me' as a follow-up to their critically acclaimed album 'At War with the Mystics'. This period marked a continued exploration of experimental sounds following their mainstream success, showcasing their willingness to delve deeper into abstract themes and unconventional song structures.

How many songs are on It Overtakes Me?

It Overtakes Me has 4 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

It Overtakes Me

The Flaming Lips · 2006

16 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A surreal blend of ethereal soundscapes and introspective lyrics creates a haunting atmosphere throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It Overtakes Me — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its dreamy textures and contemplative lyrics, encapsulating the overarching themes of introspection and existential dread.
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I’m Afraid of Dying… Aren’t You? — The track confronts mortality head-on through a blend of haunting melodies and poignant reflections, making it a standout example of the album's thematic depth.
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Free Radicals (The Bird and the Bee mix) — With its infectious energy and playful arrangement, this remix adds an alternative twist to the original while exploring concepts of freedom and chaos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases unique sonic experimentation and introspective lyrics, contributing to its distinctiveness within alternative rock.

What we noticed

The first track features a gradual build-up of layered synths that create an immersive soundscape, lasting over seven minutes.
The second track introduces a spoken-word element, contrasting with the ethereal instrumentation and adding a personal touch to the lyrics.
The third track is a remix that alters the original's structure significantly, incorporating different rhythms and textures.

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: 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Explores a departure from their established sound, showcasing ambient and surreal elements.
Career context: In 2006, The Flaming Lips released 'It Overtakes Me' as a follow-up to their critically acclaimed album 'At War with the Mystics'. This period marked a continued exploration of experimental sounds following their mainstream success, showcasing their willingness to delve deeper into abstract themes and unconventional song structures.
Stylistic neighbors: Animal Collective· Tame Impala· MGMT