Mesmer cover

Mesmer

Northlane · 2017

43 min · 11 tracks · hardcore punk

A pulsating blend of metalcore and electronic elements that explores themes of identity and existential struggle.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Citizen — The opening track sets a tone of urgency with its relentless energy and introspective lyrics, effectively drawing listeners into the album's thematic journey.
  • →
    Heartmachine — This track combines ethereal vocals with aggressive instrumentals, representing the album's fusion of melody and heaviness while exploring themes of technology and humanity.
  • →
    Fade — With its haunting atmosphere and reflective lyrics, this song captures the essence of self-exploration, making it a standout moment in the album's narrative arc.

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

The album blends metalcore with electronic elements effectively, showcasing strong production and unique vocal dynamics.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with aggressive guitar riffs and electronic overlays, while the second half shifts to more atmospheric and introspective soundscapes.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements and layered vocals, creating a dynamic interplay between harsh and clean singing.
  • The album's production includes heavy use of synthesizers and digital effects, which blend seamlessly with traditional metal instrumentation.
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 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 mid-tempo immersive flow
  • atmospheric soundscapes for focus
  • visceral emotional engagement throughout
  • balanced intensity for reflective moments

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek upbeat party energy

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2017, 'Mesmer' is Northlane's fourth studio album, coming after their critically acclaimed record 'Node' (2015). The band was solidifying their status in the metalcore scene, embracing more experimental sounds and lyrical depth while maintaining their hardcore roots.
Stylistic neighbors
Parkway Drive· While She Sleeps· Architects

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Citizen 4:24
  • 2 Colourwave 3:41
  • 3 Savage 4:39
  • 4 Solar 3:16
  • 5 Heartmachine 4:04
  • 6 Intuition 3:51
  • 7 Zero‐One 3:57
  • 8 Fade 3:58
  • 9 Render 3:56
  • 10 Veridian 3:25
  • 11 Paragon 4:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata