Language cover

Language

The Contortionist · 2014

48 min · 9 tracks · progressive metal

Complex rhythms intertwine with atmospheric melodies, creating a sonic landscape that is both intricate and emotionally resonant.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Language I: Intuition — This track sets the tone for the album, featuring ethereal vocals paired with complex instrumentation that embodies the seamless blend of atmosphere and technicality.
  • →
    Integration — In 'Integration', the band explores dynamic contrasts, shifting between heavy riffs and serene passages, illustrating their ability to balance aggression with melody.
  • →
    Ebb & Flow — This track showcases the band's lyrical depth and thematic exploration of life's cyclical nature, further enhanced by its intricate musicianship and haunting melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate structures and atmospheric elements create a compelling yet challenging listen.

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
7/10

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

  • immersive sonic landscapes to explore
  • patient unfolding of intricate rhythms
  • emotional resonance in complex arrangements
  • thoughtful reflection during quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • want high-energy party anthems

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on September 16, 2014, 'Language' marked The Contortionist's third studio album and followed their critically acclaimed release 'Intrinsic' from 2012. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their identity within the progressive metal scene while incorporating more expansive and melodic elements into their sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Intervals· Periphery· Tesseract

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Source 2:39
  • 2 Language I: Intuition 5:24
  • 3 Language II: Conspire 4:15
  • 4 Integration 5:46
  • 5 Thrive 6:04
  • 6 Primordial Sound 6:28
  • 7 Arise 3:58
  • 8 Ebb & Flow 7:06
  • 9 The Parable 7:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata