Politics cover

Politics

Sébastien Tellier · 2004

40 min · 11 tracks · electronic music

A lush tapestry of electronic sounds intertwines with orchestral elements, creating an immersive auditory experience that challenges pop conventions.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    La Ritournelle — This track exemplifies Tellier's ability to merge classical instrumentation with modern electronic elements, creating a captivating and emotive soundscape that resonates deeply.
  • →
    Wonderafrica — With its rhythmic complexity and evocative melodies, this song showcases Tellier's global influences and his skill in crafting atmospheric soundscapes.
  • →
    Ketchup vs Genocide — The provocative title and contrasting musical styles reflect Tellier's penchant for combining humor with serious themes, highlighting his unique artistic approach.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate blend of electronic and orchestral sounds creates a unique listening experience, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a gradual build-up of layers, starting with soft synths that evolve into more complex arrangements over the first three tracks.
  • Each track features a distinct sonic palette, with orchestral elements woven into electronic beats, creating varied textures throughout.
  • The standout track 'La Ritournelle' is notably longer than others, featuring an extended instrumental section that contrasts with the shorter, more structured pieces.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • whimsical melodies for daydreaming
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • eclectic soundscapes for exploration
  • reflective moments for introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced instant gratification
  • seeking traditional song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2004, Politics was Sébastien Tellier's second studio album, following his debut, L'Incroyable Vérité. At this point in his career, Tellier was beginning to carve out a unique niche within the French electronic music scene, blending diverse influences and showcasing his artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors
Air· M83· Tycho

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Bye‐Bye 2:18
  • 2 League Chicanos 3:12
  • 3 Wonderafrica 5:07
  • 4 Broadway 4:03
  • 5 La Ritournelle 7:34
  • 6 Benny 3:10
  • 7 Slow Lynch 1:20
  • 8 Mauer 3:18
  • 9 La Tuerie 2:57
  • 10 Ketchup vs Genocide 3:45
  • 11 Zombie 3:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata