What makes Lightlessness Is Nothing New by Maps & Atlases notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim, with notable features in publications like Pitchfork and NPR Music, which praised its lyrical depth and sonic experimentation. It also marked a resurgence for the band within the alternative rock scene, re-establishing their presence after years of relative quiet. Released on January 1, 2018, Lightlessness Is Nothing New marks Maps & Atlases' first album in six years following their 2012 record, Beware and Be Grateful. The band returned to the studio after a period of exploration and lineup changes, aiming to redefine their sound while retaining their distinctive blend of art rock and folk influences.

How many songs are on Lightlessness Is Nothing New?

Lightlessness Is Nothing New has 10 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Lightlessness Is Nothing New

Maps & Atlases · 2018

38 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Intricate guitar work intertwines with introspective lyrics, creating a tapestry of sound that balances complexity and accessibility.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Fear — This opening track features a dynamic interplay between rhythmic precision and melodic exploration, setting the tone for the album's intricate sound.
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Fall Apart — With its haunting melodies and reflective lyrics, this track encapsulates the emotional core of the album, revealing vulnerability amidst complex arrangements.
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Learn How to Swim — This song stands out for its compelling rhythmic shifts and layered instrumentation, showcasing the band's ability to blend catchy hooks with sophisticated musicality.
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War Dreams — The poignant lyrics paired with a captivating arrangement highlight the band's evolution while tackling themes of conflict and introspection.
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Wrong Kind of Magic — Closing the album on a reflective note, this track combines ethereal sounds with an introspective narrative, leaving listeners with lingering thoughts.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate arrangements and introspective lyrics, marking a mature evolution in sound.

What we noticed

Lyrically, the tracks delve into introspective themes, with verses often structured around vivid imagery and metaphorical language.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that build in intensity, particularly in the choruses, enhancing emotional impact.

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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Fear 3:13
2 Fall Apart 3:54
3 Ringing Bell 3:51
4 Violet Threaded 3:40
5 Fog and the Fall 3:12
6 Learn How to Swim 3:51
7 Super Bowl Sunday 3:07
8 War Dreams 3:56
9 4/25 4:38
10 Wrong Kind of Magic 4:48

What to play next

Go back to

Beware and Be Grateful

2012

Full Maps & Atlases discography Artists like Maps & Atlases

alternative rock

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