Released 20 years ago
The Idiots Are Winning
James Holden · 2006
43 min · 10 tracks · electronic music
A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate rhythms and eclectic sounds that challenge conventional electronic music boundaries.
Top tracks — play these first
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Lump — Opening with an energetic pulse, this track encapsulates Holden's knack for weaving intricate patterns into driving beats, setting the tone for the album's exploration.
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Idiot — This track stands out for its layered textures and experimental structure, showcasing Holden's ability to create tension and release within a sonic landscape.
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Corduroy — With its hypnotic groove and rich instrumental palette, Corduroy exemplifies Holden's talent for melding organic sounds with electronic elements seamlessly.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate rhythms and eclectic sounds create a distinctive yet cohesive electronic experience.
What we noticed
- Several tracks utilize unconventional sound sources, such as field recordings and manipulated instruments, contributing to its experimental nature.
- The running time is structured with interludes that provide contrast and space between more complex compositions.
- 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
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
- immersive soundscapes for exploration
- unexpected transitions and textures
- meditative moments for reflection
- intricate rhythms for deep focus
Maybe skip if you
- seeking straightforward, catchy tunes
- prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2006, The Idiots Are Winning marked James Holden's debut full-length album following his successful EPs. At this point, he was already a notable figure in the UK electronic scene, having gained recognition for his innovative production style and remixes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Four Tet· Sasha· Nicolas Jaar
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Lump 6:10
- 2 Quiet Drumming Interlude 0:20
- 3 10101 6:05
- 4 Corduroy 6:21
- 5 Flute 4:52
- 6 Idiot 7:31
- 7 Lumpette 1:35
- 8 Intentionally Left Blank 2:05
- 9 Idiot Clapsolo 4:57
- 10 Quiet Drumming 3:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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