Katorz cover

Released 20 years ago

Katorz

Voivod · 2006

45 min · 10 tracks · progressive metal

A gritty fusion of progressive and thrash metal, powered by intricate compositions and an experimental edge.

Top tracks — play these first

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    The Getaway Start here — Opening with a punchy rhythm and intricate guitar work, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of themes like escape and transformation.
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    Mr. Clean — This song showcases Voivod's signature blend of heavy riffs and thought-provoking lyrics, illustrating their unique storytelling style within a metal context.
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    Odds & Frauds — With its complex time signatures and layered instrumentation, this track encapsulates the band's progressive tendencies while addressing themes of deception in society.
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    Polaroids — The closing track reflects on nostalgia and memory, blending haunting melodies with intense musical complexity that leaves a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Katorz blends intricate compositions with a gritty sound, reflecting Voivod's evolution while maintaining their distinct style.

What we noticed

  • The guitar work incorporates dissonant chords and layered effects, creating an experimental sound that diverges from traditional metal.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • steady progression with intricate layers
  • reflective moments amidst chaos
  • engaging in-order listening experience
  • thought-provoking themes throughout tracks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced instant gratification
  • seek easily digestible singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a shift in sound after a key member's passing, showcasing new directions.
Themes
gritty nostalgia· posthumous tribute· societal deception
Career context
Released in 2006, Katorz was Voivod's first album after the passing of guitarist Denis 'Piggy' D'Amour, marking a significant transition for the band. This album came five years after their previous release, Voivod, reflecting both a mourning period and a willingness to explore new sonic territories while staying true to their roots.
Stylistic neighbors
Meshuggah· Gojira· Death

Tracklist

  • 1 The Getaway Start here 3:58
  • 2 Dognation 4:05
  • 3 Mr. Clean 4:33
  • 4 After All 4:27
  • 5 Odds & Frauds 4:50
  • 6 Red My Mind 4:41
  • 7 Silly Clones 3:17
  • 8 No Angel 5:06
  • 9 The X-Stream 4:58
  • 10 Polaroids 5:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata