Released 10 years ago
Pool
Porches · 2016
38 min · 12 tracks
Dreamy synth-pop textures blend with introspective lyrics, creating a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere throughout the album.
Top tracks — play these first
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Underwater — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its ethereal production and contemplative lyrics about vulnerability, encapsulating the overall mood.
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Braid — This song showcases a rhythmic shift that contrasts with the surrounding tracks, featuring a catchy chorus that highlights Maine's lyrical introspection.
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Be Apart — With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics about longing, this track exemplifies the emotional core of Pool, resonating deeply with listeners.
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Mood — Incorporating playful instrumentation, this track captures the essence of modern relationships through its upbeat tempo and relatable themes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases polished production and distinct sound while maintaining emotional depth in its lyrics.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features tracks that build on layered synths and rhythmic bass lines, while the second half shifts to more introspective melodies and sparse arrangements.
- Vocals are often treated with effects, creating a distant quality that complements the dreamy soundscapes throughout the record.
- Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between sections, which adds an element of surprise and keeps the listener engaged.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- nostalgic reflections on modernity
- short tracks for quick engagement
- dreamy soundscapes for introspection
- lighthearted moments with depth
- for late-night drives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy anthems
- seek lengthy, epic compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in early 2016, Pool marked Porches' transition from lo-fi indie rock to a more polished synth-driven sound. This album followed their 2013 debut, Slow Dance in the Cosmos, showcasing Aaron Maine's artistic evolution and expanding his sonic palette significantly.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Frank Ocean· Washed Out· Tame Impala
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Underwater 4:00
- 2 Braid 3:26
- 3 Be Apart 3:05
- 4 Mood 2:28
- 5 Hour 3:06
- 6 Even the Shadow 3:24
- 7 Pool 3:13
- 8 Glow 2:49
- 9 Car 2:35
- 10 Shaver 3:40
- 11 Shape 3:19
- 12 Security 3:06
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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