Subliminal cover

Subliminal

Gims · 2013

69 min · 18 tracks · hip-hop

A dynamic blend of hip-hop and pop, infused with vibrant melodies and introspective lyrics reflecting personal struggles.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Meurtre par strangulation Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Freedom — This track captures Gims' struggle for artistic freedom, combining powerful vocals with a compelling beat that resonates with listeners seeking empowerment.
  • →
    Bella — With its infectious melody and romantic lyrics, this hit exemplifies Gims' ability to merge catchy pop hooks with deeper emotional themes, making it a standout single.
  • →
    La Chute — In this track, Gims confronts personal struggles and vulnerabilities, showcasing his lyrical prowess and emotional range against a backdrop of engaging production.

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 album blends catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing Gims' versatility in both composition and performance.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a brief intro followed by a series of tracks that alternate between upbeat anthems and introspective ballads.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, with Gims often switching between singing and rapping within the same song.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • layered, dense sonic textures
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • contemplative storytelling moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Gims as a prominent figure in French music with commercial success.
Career context
When Gims released 'Subliminal' in 2013, he was solidifying his status as a prominent figure in French contemporary music, following his successful debut with Sexion d'Assaut. This album marked his first solo project after the group's breakthrough, showcasing his ability to blend genres while delivering deeply personal themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Soprano· Kaaris· Orelsan

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Changer

    The narrative shifts from past regrets to a hopeful vision for the future, emphasizing the desire for transformation.

    This transition highlights Gims’ growth as an artist and person, marking a pivotal moment of self-reflection that connects deeply with listeners.

Tracklist

  • 1 Intro 2:49
  • 2 Meurtre par strangulation Start here 4:22
  • 3 J’m tire 4:11
  • 4 Freedom 3:44
  • 5 VQ2PQ 3:41
  • 6 Ça décoiffe 4:37
  • 7 One Shot 3:26
  • 8 Où est ton arme 4:27
  • 9 Interlude 1:40
  • 10 La Chute 4:05
  • 11 Ça marche 3:42
  • 12 Épuisé 3:47
  • 13 Laisse tomber 4:25
  • 14 À la base 4:05
  • 15 Pas touché 3:39
  • 16 Outsider 4:59
  • 17 Bella 3:46
  • 18 Changer 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata