What makes Poison by The Prodigy notable?

'Poison' reached significant chart success, peaking at number 3 on the UK Singles Chart and receiving critical acclaim for its innovative sound. The song's production and energetic style influenced the burgeoning electronic music scene, contributing to The Prodigy's reputation as pioneers in the big beat movement. Released in 1995, 'Poison' marked a pivotal moment for The Prodigy as they were transitioning from underground rave sensations to mainstream icons. This single followed their breakthrough album 'Music for the Jilted Generation', consolidating their position in the big beat genre and setting the stage for their later commercial peak with 'The Fat of the Land'.

How many songs are on Poison?

Poison has 4 tracks, running approximately 21 minutes.

Poison

The Prodigy · 1995

21 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A frenetic blend of breakbeat and electronic elements erupts into an intoxicating rush of sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Poison (95 EQ) — This track encapsulates the raw energy and chaotic beats characteristic of The Prodigy's sound, making it an anthem of the mid-90s rave culture.
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Rat Poison — Blending aggressive beats with dark lyrical themes, this track showcases the group's ability to merge intensity with danceable rhythms, representing their innovative approach.
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Scienide — With its layered electronic textures and driving basslines, 'Scienide' exemplifies The Prodigy's experimentation within the electronic rock genre during this period.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong production and distinct tracks but lacks full cohesion in its sequencing.

What we noticed

The title track features a rapid tempo with layered breakbeats and aggressive synth lines that create a chaotic yet captivating atmosphere.
The second track, 'Rat Poison', shifts to a more subdued pace while maintaining the electronic elements, providing contrast to the opening.
The final track, 'Poison (Environmental Science dub mix)', extends the original into a more experimental territory, emphasizing rhythm over melody.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked the transition to mainstream success for The Prodigy.
Themes: mid-90s rave culture· aggressive breakbeat rhythms· underground to mainstream transition
Career context: Released in 1995, 'Poison' marked a pivotal moment for The Prodigy as they were transitioning from underground rave sensations to mainstream icons. This single followed their breakthrough album 'Music for the Jilted Generation', consolidating their position in the big beat genre and setting the stage for their later commercial peak with 'The Fat of the Land'.
Stylistic neighbors: The Chemical Brothers· Fatboy Slim· Pendulum