What makes Second by Baroness notable?

The EP received critical acclaim from various music publications, cementing Baroness's place in the underground metal scene. It has been noted for influencing later generations of bands within the sludge and progressive metal genres, helping to shape the sound of modern heavy music. Released on September 5, 2005, 'Second' was Baroness's debut EP, following their formation in 2003 and positioning them as significant players in the emerging sludge metal scene. This release showcased their evolving sound, setting the stage for their later full-length albums and establishing their reputation for complex song structures.

How many songs are on Second?

Second has 3 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

Second

Baroness · 2005

20 min · 3 tracks · progressive metal

An intricate blend of progressive and sludge metal, layered with atmospheric melodies and heavy riffs that create a dynamic sonic experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Red Sky — This opening track sets the tone with its powerful instrumentation and haunting vocals, showcasing Baroness's ability to merge melody and heaviness effectively.
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Son of Sun — With its intricate guitar work and shifting time signatures, this track exemplifies the band's progressive influences while maintaining an intense emotional core.
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Vision — Closing the EP, this track features expansive soundscapes and a climactic build-up that encapsulates the band's signature style of combining heavy riffs with melodic elements.

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 EP showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing heaviness with atmospheric elements.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a heavy, distorted guitar riff that sets a dark tone, followed by intricate drumming that shifts between tempos.
Each track features dynamic shifts in intensity, moving from quiet, atmospheric sections to powerful, aggressive passages.
The vocals are layered and often harmonized, adding depth to the overall sound while maintaining a raw edge.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Tracklist

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

1 Red Sky 5:44
2 Son of Sun 7:04
3 Vision 7:32

What to play next

Listen next

A Grey Sigh in a Flower Husk

2007

Go back to

First

2004

Full Baroness discography Where to start with Baroness Artists like Baroness

progressive metal sludge metal stoner metal

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