What makes Subtemple / Beachfires by Burial notable?

This album received critical acclaim for its innovative sound design and emotional resonance, contributing to Burial's reputation as a pioneering figure in the UK underground music scene. It was highlighted by publications like The Wire and Resident Advisor, showcasing his ability to consistently push the boundaries of ambient and electronic music. Released in early 2017, Subtemple / Beachfires is Burial's first new material since his 2012 EP Rival Dealer, marking a significant return after a five-year hiatus. This release continues to explore the emotive depth and atmospheric intricacy that defined his previous works, further solidifying his unique position in electronic music.

How many songs are on Subtemple / Beachfires?

Subtemple / Beachfires has 2 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Subtemple / Beachfires

Burial · 2017

17 min · 2 tracks · ambient music

A haunting blend of fragmented rhythms and ethereal soundscapes that evoke a sense of urban isolation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Subtemple — This track encapsulates the album's ethereal atmosphere with its layered textures and intricate rhythms, creating a vivid sonic landscape that immerses the listener deeply.
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Beachfires — The closing track combines soothing melodies with haunting vocal samples, illustrating Burial's mastery of mood and setting through sound, leaving a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

75 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The EP's atmospheric depth and innovative sound design create a compelling listening experience.

What we noticed

The first track, 'Subtemple', features a slow build with layered textures that gradually introduce fragmented rhythms and ambient noise.
In 'Beachfires', the soundscape shifts to a more melodic approach, incorporating distant vocal samples that are heavily processed and submerged in reverb.
Both tracks maintain a consistent tempo but explore different emotional landscapes, with 'Subtemple' feeling darker and more introspective compared to the warmer tones of 'Beachfires'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Subtemple 7:23
2 Beachfires 9:50

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