Play Dead
Mutemath · 2017
51 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
An eclectic blend of alternative rock and electronic elements, merging introspective lyrics with dynamic instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Break the Fever — This track encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of personal struggle and resilience, featuring an infectious chorus that showcases the band's signature blend of rock and electronic sounds.
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War — With its powerful lyrics and driving rhythm, 'War' stands out as a commentary on conflict and inner turmoil, reflecting the emotional depth present throughout the album.
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Everything’s New — The closing track offers a reflective culmination of the album's themes, combining atmospheric instrumentation with poignant lyrics that highlight transformation and hope.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases a blend of rock and electronic sounds with introspective lyrics, maintaining a solid but not identity.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
- Several tracks incorporate electronic elements that blend seamlessly with traditional rock instrumentation, creating a layered sound.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 mid-tempo exploration
- introspective moments of reflection
- atmospheric journey through emotions
- consistent flow throughout listening
- thoughtful soundscapes for focus
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced excitement
- seek standalone hits only
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2017, Play Dead is Mutemath's fourth studio album, following the commercial success of their 2015 release, Vitals. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique sound while exploring new musical avenues after lineup changes and a shift towards more experimental production techniques.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Anberlin· The Postal Service· Mew
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Break the Fever
The bridge shifts to a moment of raw vulnerability where the narrator questions their reality amidst a backdrop of soaring melodies.
This transition heightens emotional intensity by contrasting earlier confidence with self-doubt, showcasing a pivotal moment of introspection.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Hit Parade 5:15
- 2 Pixie Oaks 4:29
- 3 Stroll On 3:57
- 4 Break the Fever 5:33
- 5 Nuisance 3:22
- 6 Placed on Hold 5:23
- 7 Everything’s New 6:05
- 8 War 4:50
- 9 Achilles Heel 6:38
- 10 Marching to the End 6:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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