The Bulls & the Bees
Melvins · 2012
23 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock
A labyrinth of heavy riffs and experimental textures that challenge the boundaries of rock while infusing a sense of dark humor.
Top tracks — play these first
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The War on Wisdom Start here — Opening with a powerful and aggressive riff, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of chaos and absurdity. Its relentless energy encapsulates Melvins' unique fusion of heavy metal with experimental elements.
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We Are Doomed — This lengthy track delves into darker themes and features intricate shifts in tempo, showcasing the band's skill in creating dynamic soundscapes. Its haunting melodies juxtaposed with heavy instrumentals highlight Melvins' ability to maintain tension throughout.
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National Hamster — With its off-kilter rhythms and quirky lyrics, this song exemplifies Melvins' penchant for dark humor intertwined with serious musicianship. It reflects their distinctive approach to songwriting that balances absurdity with artistry.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's complex arrangements and heavy riffs showcase Melvins' distinctive sound within alternative rock.
What we noticed
- The first track features a slow build with layered guitar riffs that gradually intensify, setting a heavy tone for the album.
- The final track ends with an extended instrumental outro that fades out slowly, contrasting with the more aggressive earlier pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo grooves
- dark humor in lyrics
- intricate rhythms to explore
- short bursts of unpredictability
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification
- seek straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — The album features a deliberate departure from established sound with complex arrangements.
- Themes
- dark humor· social commentary· chaotic energy
- Career context
- Released in 2012, The Bulls & the Bees marks Melvins' first studio album after their 2010 release, The Bride Screamed Murder. At this point, the band had solidified their reputation as pioneers in alternative and experimental rock, continuing to push sonic boundaries while maintaining their distinct style. This album showcases their ability to blend diverse influences and refine their sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Big Business· The Jesus Lizard· Torche
Tracklist
- 1 The War on Wisdom Start here 3:40
- 2 We Are Doomed 7:07
- 3 Friends Before Larry 4:20
- 4 A Really Long Wait 4:23
- 5 National Hamster 4:07
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Liar
The Jesus Lizard
Shares chaotic energy and dark humor with heavy riffs and experimental structures.
Occupational Hazard
Unsane
Combines noise rock elements with a gritty atmosphere and themes of urban discontent.
1000 Hurts
Shellac
Explores intricate rhythms and a similar blend of heavy sounds with an experimental edge.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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