Self Assemble cover

Released 10 years ago

Self Assemble

Mat Zo · 2016

44 min · 12 tracks · progressive music

A kaleidoscopic blend of house, trance, and progressive beats that invites listeners into an immersive sonic journey.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Order Out of Chaos — This opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its intricate layering of melodies and rhythms, perfectly encapsulating Mat Zo's artistic vision.
  • →
    Killing Time — With its driving beat and captivating vocal samples, this track exemplifies the blend of energy and emotion that defines much of the album.
  • →
    Soul Food — This track stands out with its lush soundscapes and introspective lyrics, showcasing Mat Zo's ability to create a deep sense of atmosphere.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong production and a unique blend of styles, making it engaging but not.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that build progressively in energy, while the second half introduces more experimental soundscapes and varied tempos.
  • Several tracks incorporate vocal samples that are manipulated and layered, adding depth to the instrumental arrangements.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • kaleidoscopic sonic exploration
  • pulsating energy for dancing
  • immersive journey through sound
  • short bursts of rhythmic intensity

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy, narrative compositions
  • want quiet, introspective moments

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in early 2016, Self Assemble marked Mat Zo's return to the forefront of electronic music after his critically acclaimed debut album, Damage Control, in 2013. This album reflects his evolution as a producer, showcasing a more adventurous approach to sound design and composition while maintaining his signature melodic sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors
Porter Robinson· Above & Beyond· Seven Lions

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Order Out of Chaos 3:11
  • 2 The Enemy 3:31
  • 3 Sinful 3:47
  • 4 Patterns Emerging 1:41
  • 5 Killing Time 4:19
  • 6 Smacked Up on Jack 1:50
  • 7 Ruffneck Bad Boy (VIP) 4:21
  • 8 Lights Out 4:51
  • 9 Soul Food 5:05
  • 10 Stereo No Aware 5:38
  • 11 Too Late 4:33
  • 12 The Last Transmission 1:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata