What makes Metals by Feist notable?

The album debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200 and received widespread critical acclaim for its mature sound and complex songwriting. It was nominated for the Polaris Music Prize and further established Feist as a unique voice within the indie folk genre, influencing subsequent artists with its blend of simplicity and sophistication. Metals is Feist's fourth studio album, following her breakthrough record The Reminder in 2007. By 2011, she had solidified her place in the indie music landscape, shifting from mainstream success to a more experimental approach with this release, which showcases deeper lyrical themes and intricate arrangements.

Metals works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and introspective and contemplative vibes.

How many songs are on Metals?

Metals has 12 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Metals

Feist · 2011

49 min · 12 tracks · folk music

A rich tapestry of introspective melodies and organic rhythms that intertwine folk traditions with modern pop sensibilities.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Bad in Each Other — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melodies and vivid imagery, exploring themes of interpersonal conflict and emotional vulnerability.
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A Commotion — With its infectious rhythm and layered instrumentation, this track encapsulates the album's exploration of chaos versus calm, showcasing Feist's dynamic vocal range.
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Graveyard — This song combines poignant lyrics about loss with a delicate arrangement, illustrating Feist's ability to convey profound emotions through simplicity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

Metals showcases intricate songwriting and unique arrangements, making it a standout in Feist's discography.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, layered arrangement that gradually introduces more instruments, creating a rich sonic landscape.
Several tracks feature unconventional song structures, such as 'A Commotion,' which shifts between different musical sections without a clear verse-chorus pattern.
The use of varied instrumentation, including strings and percussion, adds depth to the melodies and creates an organic feel throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
introspective and contemplative vibes
rich emotional storytelling

Where this album fits

Career context: Metals is Feist's fourth studio album, following her breakthrough record The Reminder in 2007. By 2011, she had solidified her place in the indie music landscape, shifting from mainstream success to a more experimental approach with this release, which showcases deeper lyrical themes and intricate arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· Laura Marling