Kronik cover

Kronik

Voivod · 1998

60 min · 11 tracks · progressive metal

A cerebral blend of progressive and thrash metal, weaving intricate arrangements with heavy live energy and experimental remixes.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Forlorn (remix) Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Mercury (remix) — This track exemplifies Voivod's signature fusion of progressive structures and thrash intensity, enhanced by the creative reinterpretation found in the remix.
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    Vortex — With its dynamic shifts and intricate guitar work, Vortex captures the essence of Voivod's avant-garde approach to metal, making it a standout original track.
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    Project X (live) — As a live recording, Project X showcases the raw energy and tight musicianship of Voivod, bringing their complex studio sound to vibrant life on stage.
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    Astronomy Domine (live) — This cover of Pink Floyd’s classic demonstrates Voivod's ability to reinterpret iconic material while infusing it with their unique thrash metal identity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Kronik blends remixed and live tracks, showcasing Voivod's experimental edge while maintaining a cohesive sound.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks are remixed versions of earlier songs, introducing a more polished sound before transitioning to original material.
  • The last four tracks are live recordings that capture the raw energy of the band, contrasting with the studio remixes.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • wave-like pacing with surprises
  • dynamic shifts between live tracks
  • immersive remixes for deep listening
  • experimental soundscapes for exploration
  • engaging late-night listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • dislike lengthy experimental pieces
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Features innovative remixes and a departure from established sound.
Themes
experimental remixes· live metal energy· avant-garde reinterpretation
Career context
Kronik is Voivod's sixth studio album, released in 1998 following their acclaimed album Negatron. This record marks a transitional phase for the band, featuring remixed tracks from their earlier work alongside live recordings that showcase their evolving sound and performance prowess.
Stylistic neighbors
Meshuggah· Gojira· Death

Tracklist

  • 1 Forlorn (remix) Start here 6:55
  • 2 Nanoman (remix) 5:27
  • 3 Mercury (remix) 5:50
  • 4 Vortex 4:39
  • 5 Drift 5:36
  • 6 Erosion 4:31
  • 7 Ion 4:32
  • 8 Project X (live) 4:45
  • 9 Cosmic Conspiracy (live) 7:30
  • 10 Astronomy Domine (live) 5:47
  • 11 Nuclear War (live) 5:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata