Pagans in Vegas cover

Pagans in Vegas

Metric · 2012

49 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

Ethereal synths and driving beats intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a soundscape both celebratory and haunting.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Lie Lie Lie Start here — Opening the album with a catchy hook, this track encapsulates the band's blend of infectious melodies and sharp social commentary, setting the tone for the project.
  • →
    Fortunes — This song juxtaposes upbeat instrumentals with reflective lyrics about uncertainty, showcasing Metric's ability to mix danceable rhythms with deeper themes.
  • →
    Cascades — Cascades features lush soundscapes and a poignant narrative that highlights the emotional core of the album, illustrating Metric's evolution as songwriters.
  • →
    Other Side — With its introspective lyrics and atmospheric production, this track serves as a moment of reflection amidst the album's vibrant energy, deepening its thematic complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic synths with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong production but varying depth in songwriting.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a driving beat and layered synths, creating an energetic atmosphere that persists through the first half.
  • Several tracks feature a call-and-response vocal arrangement, enhancing the sense of dialogue between the lead and backing vocals.
  • The final two tracks are instrumental, providing a stark contrast to the preceding lyrical content and allowing for a reflective conclusion.
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
6/10

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 progression with resolution
  • synth-driven anthems for reflection
  • celebratory vibes for gatherings
  • introspective lyrics for deep listening
  • vibrant soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Explores new sonic territory, marking a shift in Metric's established sound.
Themes
Vegas nightlife· digital disconnection· celebratory uncertainty
Career context
Released in 2012, Pagans in Vegas marked Metric's fifth studio album, following their successful record Synthetica. At this point in their career, the band was exploring new sonic territory while maintaining their signature blend of indie rock and electronic influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Chvrches· Yeah Yeah Yeahs· Bat for Lashes

Tracklist

  • 1 Lie Lie Lie Start here 4:15
  • 2 Fortunes 4:12
  • 3 The Shade 3:36
  • 4 Celebrate 4:00
  • 5 Cascades 5:24
  • 6 For Kicks 4:56
  • 7 Too Bad, So Sad 3:24
  • 8 Other Side 3:51
  • 9 Blind Valentine 3:22
  • 10 The Governess 4:01
  • 11 The Face, Part I 5:01
  • 12 The Face, Part II 3:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata