What makes Shelter by Alcest notable?

'Shelter' received widespread acclaim from critics, often recognized for its lush sound and emotional depth. It was noted for pushing the boundaries of metal into more ambient realms, influencing numerous artists within the post-metal and shoegaze scenes, further solidifying Alcest's role as innovators in contemporary music. By the time 'Shelter' was released in January 2014, Alcest had established themselves as pioneers of the blackgaze genre, following their acclaimed albums 'Écailles de Lune' and 'Les Voyages de l'Âme'. This record marked a shift towards a more atmospheric and serene sound, showcasing a departure from their heavier roots while still retaining their signature ethereal quality.

Shelter works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Shelter?

Shelter has 8 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Shelter

Alcest · 2014

45 min · 8 tracks · black metal

Ethereal soundscapes merge with melodic post-metal, creating an immersive journey through tranquility and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Opale — This track encapsulates the album's serene aesthetic with its dreamy melodies and layered instrumentation, inviting listeners into a tranquil soundscape.
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La nuit marche avec moi — The song blends haunting vocals with expansive guitar work, illustrating Alcest's ability to evoke emotions through contrasting dynamics.
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Shelter — The title track serves as the emotional centerpiece of the album, featuring delicate melodies that reflect themes of refuge and solace.
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Délivrance — As the longest track on the album, it showcases Alcest's intricate songwriting, evolving from tranquil passages to powerful crescendos that explore the depths of human experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album's immersive soundscapes and melodic structures create a distinct experience within the blackgaze genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a lush soundscape in 'Wings' that sets a tranquil mood, which is maintained through the first half of the record.
Each track features layered instrumentation, often blending ethereal guitar melodies with atmospheric synths and soft vocals.
The final three tracks gradually decrease in tempo, creating a sense of resolution and introspection as the album concludes.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs
serene, contemplative moods

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Shelter' was released in January 2014, Alcest had established themselves as pioneers of the blackgaze genre, following their acclaimed albums 'Écailles de Lune' and 'Les Voyages de l'Âme'. This record marked a shift towards a more atmospheric and serene sound, showcasing a departure from their heavier roots while still retaining their signature ethereal quality.
Stylistic neighbors: Les Discrets· Agalloch· Deafheaven