What makes Joli Mai by Dan Snaith notable?

Joli Mai received positive reviews from critics, noted for its intricate production and emotive depth. The album showcases Snaith's ability to craft danceable tracks that also convey introspective themes, further solidifying his reputation within the electronic music scene. Released in 2017, Joli Mai is Dan Snaith's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Our Love from 2014. At this point in his career, Snaith was exploring a more diverse sonic palette while continuing to refine his signature sound that combines electronic music with elements of pop and experimentalism.

Joli Mai works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Joli Mai?

Joli Mai has 12 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Released 9 years ago this October

Joli Mai

Dan Snaith · 2017

59 min · 12 tracks · electronic music

A vibrant tapestry of electronic textures and rich melodies, seamlessly blending deep house with psychedelic pop influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Face to Face — This track exemplifies Snaith's knack for melding infectious grooves with lush melodic layers, making it a standout for its seamless transitions between rhythmic sections.
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Vulture — With its haunting vocals and driving beat, Vulture encapsulates the album's exploration of emotional landscapes, offering a captivating blend of tension and release.
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Joli Mai — The title track serves as a reflective centerpiece, showcasing Snaith's ability to weave complex soundscapes while addressing themes of memory and time.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate production and a blend of styles, rewarding attentive listening while maintaining a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered synths and rhythmic percussion that create a dense soundscape throughout its duration.
Several tracks incorporate gradual build-ups, with elements introduced progressively, leading to climactic moments before tapering off.
The final track employs a contrasting minimalist approach, stripping back the complexity to create an introspective conclusion.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2017, Joli Mai is Dan Snaith's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Our Love from 2014. At this point in his career, Snaith was exploring a more diverse sonic palette while continuing to refine his signature sound that combines electronic music with elements of pop and experimentalism.
Stylistic neighbors: Four Tet· Tycho· Bonobo