Röd
Kent · 2009
56 min · 11 tracks · rock music
A moody blend of rock and synth-pop, laced with existential themes and haunting melodies that linger long after the final note.
Top tracks — play these first
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18:29-4 Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Taxmannen — This track combines driving rhythms with poignant lyrics about societal pressures and personal struggle, making it a standout representation of the album's thematic depth.
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Hjärta — With its sweeping melodies and emotional weight, this song encapsulates the longing and heartache prevalent throughout Röd, showcasing the band's lyrical prowess.
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Det finns inga ord — The closing track stands out with its expansive arrangement and contemplative lyrics, offering a powerful meditation on communication and connection.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Röd combines atmospheric rock with existential themes, creating a moody yet engaging experience.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features a consistent use of layered synths that create a dense atmosphere, while the second half shifts to more stripped-down arrangements.
- The lyrics often explore themes of isolation and despair, with a recurring motif of darkness that is reflected in the instrumentation.
- 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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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 progression with emotional peaks
- haunting soundscapes for introspection
- evening solitude with reflective mood
- thoughtful listening for deep contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seek instant gratification
- prefer upbeat, fast-paced rhythms
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Röd is a significant artistic achievement, noted for its darker themes and critical acclaim.
- Themes
- Swedish societal burdens· emotive vocal delivery
- Career context
- Released on November 5, 2009, Röd is Kent's eighth studio album, following their successful record Tillbaka till samtiden. At this point in their career, Kent was solidifying their status as a leading force in Swedish music, known for their introspective lyrics and innovative sound that continued to evolve with each release.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The National· Interpol· M83
Tracklist
- 1 18:29-4 Start here 2:26
- 2 Taxmannen 4:32
- 3 Krossa allt 4:48
- 4 Hjärta 5:34
- 5 Sjukhus 6:17
- 6 Vals för satan (din vän pessimisten) 6:47
- 7 Idioter 4:12
- 8 Svarta linjer 4:29
- 9 Ensamheten 5:46
- 10 Töntarna 4:40
- 11 Det finns inga ord 6:59
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Clinging to a Scheme
The Radio Dept.
Shares the same blend of melancholic pop and introspective lyrics with atmospheric production.
Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
M83
Combines ethereal synth textures and emotional weight, reflecting on personal and societal themes.
( )
Sigur Rós
Offers haunting soundscapes and introspective lyrics, creating a similar emotional resonance.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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