Stereolithic cover

Stereolithic

311 · 2014

58 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant mix of funk rock and alternative elements, pulsating with energy and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Ebb and Flow Start here — Opening with a reflective tone, the track captures the essence of balance between life's ups and downs, setting a thematic foundation for the album.
  • →
    Showdown — This track stands out with its infectious grooves and catchy chorus, embodying the band's signature style while delivering an upbeat message about confrontation and resilience.
  • →
    Existential Hero — Blending philosophical musings with a driving rhythm, this song delves into deeper existential questions, showcasing the band's lyrical depth alongside their musical versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic and introspective moments but lacks strong cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with driving rhythms, while the second half shifts to more introspective and melodic pieces.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • steady flow for focused listening
  • catchy hooks for sing-alongs
  • introspective lyrics for reflection
  • uplifting energy for casual hangouts
  • gradual decline invites contemplation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance in the band's established sound after decades.
Career context
By the time 'Stereolithic' was released in 2014, 311 had solidified their place in the alternative rock scene, having established their sound over more than two decades. This album followed their previous release, 'Universal Pulse' (2011), and marked a continuation of their exploration into diverse musical styles while maintaining their hallmark blend of rock and reggae influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Incubus· Red Hot Chili Peppers· Cake

Tracklist

  • 1 Ebb and Flow Start here 3:24
  • 2 Five of Everything 3:51
  • 3 Showdown 3:48
  • 4 Revelation of the Year 4:11
  • 5 Sand Dollars 3:19
  • 6 Boom Shanka 3:05
  • 7 Make it Rough 3:22
  • 8 The Great Divide 4:05
  • 9 Friday Afternoon 4:12
  • 10 Simple True 4:12
  • 11 First Dimension 3:22
  • 12 Made in the Shade 3:23
  • 13 Existential Hero 4:00
  • 14 The Call 3:28
  • 15 Tranquility 3:48
  • 16 [untitled] 2:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata