What makes Screen Memories (album) by John Maus notable?

Screen Memories received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and thematic depth, with publications like Pitchfork praising its unique blend of pop and experimental elements. Its distinct style has influenced a wave of artists in the underground synth-pop scene, solidifying Maus's role as a pivotal figure in contemporary electronic music. Released on October 27, 2017, Screen Memories is John Maus's first album since 2011's We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves. This record marks a return for Maus after a six-year hiatus during which he engaged in academic pursuits, allowing him to explore new themes and sonic textures.

Who is Screen Memories (album) for?

Screen Memories (album) works well if you're into nostalgic soundscapes for reflection, steady pacing for focused listening and short tracks for quick engagement.

How many songs are on Screen Memories (album)?

Screen Memories (album) has 12 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Released 9 years ago this October

Screen Memories (album)

John Maus · 2017

38 min · 12 tracks · rock music

A kaleidoscopic blend of lo-fi synths and haunting melodies that evoke nostalgia and unease in equal measure.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Teenage Witch — This track encapsulates the album's playful yet eerie aesthetic, merging catchy hooks with unsettling lyrical imagery that evokes the trials of adolescence.
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The People Are Missing — With its infectious rhythm and introspective lyrics, this song highlights Maus's ability to create danceable tracks that also provoke thought about societal issues.
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Find Out — The track stands out for its driving beat and anthemic chorus, serving as a rallying cry for self-discovery amidst the chaos of modern life.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends nostalgic melodies with experimental elements, creating a unique sound that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace with layered synths, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective tone.
Several tracks utilize repetitive melodic motifs that create a sense of nostalgia and unease, particularly in 'Teenage Witch' and 'The People Are Missing'.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually strip down instrumentation, leading to a sparse arrangement in 'Bombs Away', which emphasizes vocal delivery.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

nostalgic soundscapes for reflection
steady pacing for focused listening
short tracks for quick engagement
mid-tempo flow for relaxed vibes
ethereal textures for immersive experience

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy instant gratification
seek longer, sprawling compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on October 27, 2017, Screen Memories is John Maus's first album since 2011's We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves. This record marks a return for Maus after a six-year hiatus during which he engaged in academic pursuits, allowing him to explore new themes and sonic textures.
Stylistic neighbors: Dan Deacon· Oneohtrix Point Never· Ariel Pink