Money Shot cover

Released 11 years ago this October

Money Shot

Puscifer · 2015

51 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A genre-defying mix of industrial soundscapes and eclectic rhythms punctuated by provocative lyrics and haunting vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Galileo — This track opens the album with atmospheric instrumentation, setting a contemplative tone that reflects on existential themes through its layered vocals and intricate arrangements.
  • →
    The Arsonist — With its driving beat and darkly humorous lyrics, this track exemplifies Puscifer's knack for blending fun with deeper commentary, creating an engaging listening experience.
  • →
    Money Shot — The title track encapsulates the album’s themes of desire and disillusionment through punchy beats and sharp lyrical wit, making it a standout moment.
  • →
    Smoke and Mirrors — This song's exploration of illusion versus reality is underscored by hypnotic rhythms and lush instrumentation, showcasing the band’s signature experimental style.

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 showcases strong writing and production, with unique soundscapes that maintain listener interest.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a slow build in 'Galileo', layering industrial sounds before introducing vocals, setting a moody tone.
  • Tracks like 'Money Shot' and 'The Arsonist' feature abrupt shifts in dynamics, alternating between quiet verses and explosive choruses.
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

  • steady pacing with gradual peaks
  • surreal auditory experience throughout
  • introspective lyrics for deep reflection
  • immersive flow for focused listening
  • for late-night introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Showcased Puscifer's growing influence and received positive critical reception.
Career context
By the time 'Money Shot' was released in 2015, Puscifer had firmly established itself as a side project for Maynard James Keenan, following the band's previous album, 'Conditions of My Parole', from 2011. This album marked a continued evolution in their sound, blending more experimental elements while maintaining their signature theatricality.
Stylistic neighbors
Tool· A Perfect Circle· Nine Inch Nails

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Galileo 5:17
  • 2 Agostina 4:25
  • 3 Grand Canyon 5:58
  • 4 Simultaneous 6:42
  • 5 Money Shot 2:32
  • 6 The Arsonist 4:45
  • 7 The Remedy 6:07
  • 8 Smoke and Mirrors 4:57
  • 9 Life of Brian (Apparently You Haven’t Seen) 4:42
  • 10 Autumn 6:07

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata