What makes Mirrored by Battles notable?

Mirrored received critical acclaim upon release, landing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Battles' reputation within the experimental rock genre. The album peaked at number 42 on the Billboard 200 and was influential in shaping the sound of progressive rock music in the late 2000s, inspiring a wave of artists exploring similar avant-garde techniques. Released in 2007, Mirrored is Battles' debut full-length album following their EPs, establishing them as a significant force in the math rock and experimental scene. The band was transitioning from a well-received live act to a recording entity with this album, which set the stage for their unique sound characterized by complex rhythms and layered instrumentation.

Mirrored works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and experimental sound explorations.

How many songs are on Mirrored?

Mirrored has 11 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Mirrored

Battles · 2007

51 min · 11 tracks · experimental rock

Intricate polyrhythms and vibrant sonic textures intertwine, creating an exhilarating collage of experimental rock that challenges conventional structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Atlas — This track is notable for its infectious rhythm and looping melodies, serving as a standout example of Battles' ability to blend intricate musicianship with accessible hooks.
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Race : In — Opening the album, this track introduces listeners to Battles' distinctive style with its driving beats and dynamic shifts, setting a high-energy tone.
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Tonto — This piece highlights the band's experimental edge, featuring unconventional time signatures and layered sounds that showcase their innovative approach to composition.
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Leyendecker — With its punchy rhythm and catchy motifs, Leyendecker exemplifies the band's knack for creating engaging instrumental music that remains danceable yet complex.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Mirrored showcases intricate compositions and innovative production, establishing a unique sound within experimental rock.

What we noticed

The album features complex polyrhythms that shift frequently, creating a sense of unpredictability in the music.
Tracks often incorporate unconventional song structures, with sections that abruptly change tempo or texture.
Vocal elements are used sparingly and often treated as another layer of instrumentation rather than traditional lead vocals.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
experimental sound explorations
wave-like pacing and flow

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2007, Mirrored is Battles' debut full-length album following their EPs, establishing them as a significant force in the math rock and experimental scene. The band was transitioning from a well-received live act to a recording entity with this album, which set the stage for their unique sound characterized by complex rhythms and layered instrumentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Don Caballero· Tortoise· Hella