Noctourniquet
The Mars Volta · 2012
64 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock
A haunting blend of intricate rhythms and ethereal melodies that evoke a dreamlike state.
Why this album works
'Noctourniquet' received critical acclaim for its experimental approach, debuting at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart. It was notable for its concept surrounding themes of life and death, drawing inspiration from the work of author Marcel Proust, which positioned it within a broader cultural conversation about narrative in music. The album is often considered a pivotal release that influenced progressive rock's evolution in the early 2010s.
- Best for
- wave-like pacing with resolution haunting melodies for introspection dynamic progression through moods
- Context
- Released on March 26, 2012, 'Noctourniquet' is The Mars Volta's sixth studio album, following their commercially successful 'Octahedron' from 2009. At this point in their career, the band was navigating a period of artistic refinement, incorporating more melodic structures while still maintaining their signature complexity. This album also reflects a shift after the departure of founding member Jon Theodore, influencing its sound and direction.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Muse· Nikolai Noskov· Tool
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Whip Hand Standout 4:49
- 2 Aegis 5:11
- 3 Dyslexicon Standout 4:22
- 4 Empty Vessels Make the Loudest Sound Standout 6:43
- 5 The Malkin Jewel 4:44
- 6 Lapochka 4:16
- 7 In Absentia 7:26
- 8 Imago 3:58
- 9 Molochwalker 3:33
- 10 Trinkets Pale of Moon 4:25
- 11 Vedamalady 3:54
- 12 Noctourniquet 5:39
- 13 Zed and Two Naughts 5:36
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.