What makes Scale by Matthew Herbert notable?

Scale received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to sound design and composition, pushing boundaries in the electronic genre. It was noted for its exploration of themes surrounding identity and societal constructs, influencing subsequent artists within both electronic and experimental music circles. Released in 2006, Scale is Matthew Herbert's fifth studio album, showcasing his evolution as an artist deeply invested in blending genres. This period marked Herbert's transition towards more conceptual works, following the acclaimed album Bodily Functions in 2001, which established him as a significant figure in electronic music.

Scale works well if you're into playful introspection with acoustic elements, delicate textures for focused listening and thoughtful exploration of personal themes.

How many songs are on Scale?

Scale has 13 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Scale

Matthew Herbert · 2006

53 min · 13 tracks · classical music

A delicate fusion of electronic textures and acoustic instrumentation that challenges conventional soundscapes with a playful yet introspective approach.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rise And Fall — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its ethereal blend of organic sounds and digital manipulation, establishing Herbert’s signature style.
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Money — This track critiques capitalism through intricate sound layering and rhythmic playfulness, demonstrating Herbert's knack for embedding social commentary within music.
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I Am Me and She Is She — This song encapsulates Herbert's exploration of identity using layered vocals and complex arrangements that challenge traditional narrative forms in music.
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No Man Is An Island — With its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, this track reflects on human connection and isolation, resonating deeply within the album's overarching themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful introspection with acoustic elements
delicate textures for focused listening
thoughtful exploration of personal themes
dynamic contrasts throughout the album

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification tracks
prefer straightforward, upbeat sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, Scale is Matthew Herbert's fifth studio album, showcasing his evolution as an artist deeply invested in blending genres. This period marked Herbert's transition towards more conceptual works, following the acclaimed album Bodily Functions in 2001, which established him as a significant figure in electronic music.
Stylistic neighbors: Alva Noto· Ryoji Ikeda· Amon Tobin

Tracklist

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

1 Rise And Fall 5:07
2 Be A Bird 3:24
3 Out Of Them All 4:13
4 Fear Is a Tree 3:17
5 I Am Me and She Is She 5:26
6 Love Is A Lifeboat 3:31
7 Money 4:37
8 Dig Up Yer Ancestors 2:45
9 No Man Is An Island 3:58
10 Poppy Flower 6:13
11 Stay B4 I Go Aalap 1:08
12 Stay B4 I Go 3:33
13 Pieces 5:55

What to play next

Listen next

There's Me and There's You

2008

Go back to

Plat du Jour

2005

Full Matthew Herbert discography Artists like Matthew Herbert

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata