Magma cover

Released 10 years ago

Magma

Gojira · 2016

43 min · 10 tracks · progressive metal

Magma blends technical precision with atmospheric depth, creating a haunting landscape of groove-laden metal that resonates with emotional power.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Shooting Star Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Silvera — This track encapsulates the album's blend of heavy riffs and melodic elements, showcasing Gojira's ability to balance aggression with lyrical introspection. The infectious chorus creates a memorable hook that highlights the band's evolving sound.
  • →
    Stranded — A standout for its atmospheric build-up and emotional weight, this song reflects themes of isolation and longing. Its dynamic shifts between quiet introspection and explosive energy represent the album's overall thematic depth.
  • →
    Magma — The title track serves as a powerful centerpiece, combining intricate rhythms with evocative lyrics about transformation and resilience. Its haunting ambiance and progressive structure exemplify Gojira's artistic ambition.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Magma showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing heaviness with atmospheric elements effectively.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that create a sense of space between heavier sections.
  • The vocals alternate between melodic singing and aggressive growls, enhancing the emotional contrast throughout the record.
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
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

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 peaks
  • intense soundscape for reflection
  • existential themes resonate deeply
  • dynamic journey through emotions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Moods
Intense· Dark
Career context
At the time of its release in 2016, Gojira had established themselves as prominent figures in the metal scene, following their acclaimed album 'L'Enfant Sauvage' from 2012. 'Magma' marked a notable evolution in their sound, characterized by a more melodic approach while still maintaining their aggressive roots. This album was also their first release after signing with Roadrunner Records, indicating a significant moment in their commercial journey.
Stylistic neighbors
Mastodon· Meshuggah· Opeth

Tracklist

  • 1 The Shooting Star Start here 5:42
  • 2 Silvera 3:32
  • 3 The Cell 3:17
  • 4 Stranded 4:29
  • 5 Yellow Stone 1:19
  • 6 Magma 6:42
  • 7 Pray 5:13
  • 8 Only Pain 3:59
  • 9 Low Lands 6:03
  • 10 Liberation 3:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata