What makes Sidewinder by Download notable?

Sidewinder is significant for its innovative approach to remixing tracks, contributing to the burgeoning IDM genre. The EP received critical acclaim in underground music circles and helped solidify Download's reputation as influential figures in electronic music during the mid-90s. Released in 1996, Sidewinder marked Download's second EP, following their debut album, “Furnace,” which established them within the Canadian electronic scene. This project showcased their evolution as pioneers in IDM, experimenting with complex remixes and collaborative efforts.

How many songs are on Sidewinder?

Sidewinder has 8 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Sidewinder

Download · 1996

32 min · 8 tracks · intelligent dance music

A textured blend of intricate rhythms and atmospheric soundscapes that push the boundaries of intelligent dance music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sidewinder (remix) — The title track exemplifies the EP's experimental ethos with its layered textures and rhythmic complexity, setting a benchmark for future IDM releases.
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Chalice — Chalice stands out for its haunting melodies and minimalist beats, showcasing Download’s ability to create immersive soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners.
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Glassblower (remix) — This remix highlights Download's knack for reinterpreting their own work, transforming familiar sounds into something fresh and engaging while maintaining an intricate sonic palette.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases intricate rhythms and atmospheric soundscapes, solidifying Download's innovative approach within IDM.

What we noticed

The first three tracks are remixes that maintain a consistent tempo and rhythmic complexity, while the following four tracks introduce more varied structures and textures.
Tracks four through six feature a gradual build-up of layers, creating an immersive soundscape that contrasts with the more straightforward remixes.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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 Sidewinder (remix) 5:53
2 Glassblower (remix) 3:26
3 Base Metal (remix) 4:34
4 Chalice 3:08
5 Shemaesin 5:43
6 Im5 3:27
7 Attallal (remix by Haujobb) 4:45
8 Lenge T'Agn 1:07

What to play next

Listen next

The Eyes of Stanley Pain

1996

Go back to

Furnace

1995

Full Download discography Artists like Download

intelligent dance music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata