Saliva cover

Saliva

Saliva · 1997

55 min · 13 tracks · heavy metal

A raw fusion of heavy guitar riffs and aggressive rhythms, infused with a distinctive nu metal edge.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Beg — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious chorus and driving energy, establishing Saliva's presence in the nu metal landscape.
  • →
    Cellophane — The lyrical depth and dynamic shifts in this track highlight the band's ability to blend aggression with vulnerability, showcasing their songwriting range.
  • →
    Suffocate — This song exemplifies the album's darker themes while delivering a powerful performance, making it a standout that resonates deeply with fans.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100
Lowland
Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album showcases energetic tracks with dynamic vocals but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track, 'Beg', which sets a fast pace that is maintained through the first half.
  • Several tracks feature alternating vocal styles between melodic singing and aggressive shouting, creating dynamic contrasts.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, providing a contrasting exhale after the intense opening.
  • The production emphasizes heavy guitar riffs and rhythmic drumming, with a raw sound that aligns with the nu metal aesthetic.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • immersive listening sessions
  • catchy hooks and melodies

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This debut album established Saliva's presence in the nu metal scene.
Career context
Released in 1997, Saliva's self-titled debut album marked the band's introduction to the heavy metal scene. At this point, they were still establishing their identity amid the burgeoning nu metal movement, following early performances that garnered attention in local circuits.
Stylistic neighbors
Mudvayne· Disturbed· Godsmack

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Beg 3:34
  • 2 Sink 4:01
  • 3 Call It Something 4:12
  • 4 Spitshine 3:03
  • 5 Greater Than Less Than 3:46
  • 6 Cellophane 3:54
  • 7 Tongue 4:20
  • 8 Pin Cushion 4:49
  • 9 Sand Castle 5:10
  • 10 Groovy 4:07
  • 11 I Want It 3:20
  • 12 Suffocate 4:51
  • 13 800 5:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata