Nostalchic cover

Nostalchic

Lapalux · 2013

46 min · 12 tracks

A sonic exploration where intricate samples intertwine with haunting melodies, creating a lush and immersive soundscape.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Guuurl — This track stands out with its playful yet moody production, blending layers of vocal samples with rich basslines that encapsulate the album's experimental spirit.
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    Without You — The track features an evocative melody paired with poignant vocal sampling, creating an atmospheric experience that highlights Lapalux’s ability to evoke emotion through sound.
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    The Dead Sea — With its haunting sound design and intricate layering, this track exemplifies Lapalux's skill in crafting immersive audio landscapes that transport the listener.
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    Swallowing Smoke — The interplay between serene melodies and glitchy beats creates a captivating tension, showcasing the album's ability to blend beauty with complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

70 /100
Alpine
Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

Nostalchic showcases innovative production and unique arrangements that contribute to its immersive sound.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a tape intro that sets a hazy, atmospheric tone before transitioning into the first track.
  • Each track features layered samples and textures, often blending vocal snippets with instrumental elements to create depth.
  • Several tracks utilize unconventional song structures, eschewing traditional verse-chorus formats in favor of more fluid arrangements.
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
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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

  • immersive soundscapes for deep focus
  • soulful samples evoke nostalgia
  • subtle rhythms for evening relaxation
  • gentle pacing for reflective moments
  • tape interludes create seamless flow

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, high-energy tracks
  • want instant gratification from music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2013, Nostalchic marked Lapalux's debut album, following a series of well-received EPs. At this point, he was establishing himself within the burgeoning electronic music scene, known for his unique blend of experimental sounds and emotional depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Shlohmo· Mount Kimbie· Hudson Mohawke

Tracklist

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

  • 1 IAMSYS (Tape Intro) 2:53
  • 2 Guuurl 3:45
  • 3 Kelly Brook 2:58
  • 4 One Thing 3:55
  • 5 Flower 4:12
  • 6 Swallowing Smoke 4:29
  • 7 Without You 5:26
  • 8 Straight Over My Head 3:31
  • 9 Dance 3:37
  • 10 The Dead Sea 4:23
  • 11 Walking Words 2:38
  • 12 O E A (Tape Outro) 4:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata