The Nature of Imitation cover

The Nature of Imitation

Dorian Concept · 2018

39 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate jazz rhythms and glitchy electronic textures unfolds with vibrant spontaneity.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Promises — This opening track sets the tone with its complex layering of sounds, merging traditional jazz instrumentation with modern electronic elements to create an engaging auditory experience.
  • →
    A Mother’s Lament — In just under two minutes, this piece encapsulates a deep emotional resonance, utilizing minimalist melodies that highlight Dorian's ability to convey profound feelings through simplicity.
  • →
    Self Similarity — This track showcases Dorian Concept's signature style by weaving intricate melodies with dynamic rhythm shifts, reflecting the album's thematic exploration of imitation and originality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate jazz rhythms with electronic textures, showcasing strong composition and distinctiveness.

What we noticed

  • Each track incorporates glitchy electronic elements that interact with traditional jazz instrumentation, creating a layered soundscape.
  • Several tracks utilize abrupt transitions between sections, which adds to the sense of spontaneity and experimentation.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

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
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • consistent mid-tempo flow
  • intricate textures for deep listening
  • reflective moments of calm
  • short bursts of vibrant energy

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context
When Dorian Concept released The Nature of Imitation in August 2018, he was solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist within the jazz and electronic music scenes. This album followed his acclaimed 2015 release, Joined Ends, showcasing his evolution in sound and production techniques while maintaining his distinct style rooted in improvisation.
Stylistic neighbors
GoGo Penguin· Nils Frahm· Hiatus Kaiyote

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Promises 3:57
  • 2 Angel Shark 2:53
  • 3 J Buyers 4:51
  • 4 A Mother’s Lament 1:52
  • 5 No Time Not Mine 3:56
  • 6 Pedestrians 3:56
  • 7 Self Similarity 4:12
  • 8 Dishwater 2:52
  • 9 E13 4:43
  • 10 The Space 3:36
  • 11 You Give and Give 2:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata