Paracosm cover

Paracosm

Washed Out · 2013

41 min · 9 tracks · synth-pop

Dreamy synth layers intertwine with lush melodies, creating an immersive soundscape that invites listeners into a tranquil reverie.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    It All Feels Right — This track highlights the seamless blend of nostalgic synths and upbeat rhythms, encapsulating the album's overarching themes of escapism and positivity.
  • →
    Weightless — With its ethereal vocals and expansive production, this song exemplifies the dreamy aesthetic that defines Paracosm, inviting moments of introspection.
  • →
    Great Escape — The infectious groove and vibrant instrumentation create a sense of liberation, making it a standout anthem for those seeking solace in music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

57 /100
Foothills
Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The album creates a cohesive dreamy atmosphere with layered synths, though it doesn't push boundaries in composition.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a soft, ambient track that sets a tranquil mood, followed by mid-tempo songs that maintain a consistent dreamy atmosphere.
  • Each track features layered synths and gentle vocals, often using reverb to enhance the ethereal quality of the sound.
  • The last three tracks gradually decrease in tempo, creating a sense of winding down and reflection as the album concludes.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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

  • dreamy soundscapes for relaxation
  • nostalgic introspection on quiet afternoons
  • immersive listening during quiet moments
  • gentle pacing for reflective moods

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy engagement
  • prefer fast-paced, upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Paracosm is Washed Out's sophomore album, following the acclaimed debut Within and Without released in 2011. By 2013, the project had solidified its place in the chillwave movement, showcasing Ernest Greene's growth as a producer and songwriter while refining his signature sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Toro y Moi· Neon Indian· Tycho

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Falling Back

    The bridge introduces a shift in perspective that reveals deeper emotional vulnerability amidst the song's upbeat sound.

    This moment contrasts the previously carefree tone, adding depth to the narrative by exposing underlying feelings of uncertainty.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Entrance 1:25
  • 2 It All Feels Right 4:05
  • 3 Don't Give Up 3:54
  • 4 Weightless 4:55
  • 5 All I Know 5:26
  • 6 Great Escape 5:06
  • 7 Paracosm 6:32
  • 8 Falling Back 5:46
  • 9 All Over Now 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata