The Retinal Circus
Devin Townsend · 2013
128 min · 25 tracks · heavy metal · progressive metal · ambient
A theatrical blend of heavy metal and ambient soundscapes, infused with humor and dramatic storytelling.
Why this album works
The album is notable for its innovative live performance format that combines progressive metal with elaborate stage production. It received critical acclaim for its ambitious scope and creativity, solidifying Townsend's reputation as an influential figure in the metal genre. The event was also significant for its crowd engagement and visual artistry, contributing to ongoing discussions about performance art in music.
- Best for
- theatrical storytelling with humor dynamic journey with peaks wave-like pacing and shifts
- Context
- Released in 2013, 'The Retinal Circus' is a live album that captures Devin Townsend's ambitious artistic vision following his successful 'Epicloud' album. At this point in his career, Townsend was experimenting with multimedia presentations, blending music with theatrical elements, which reflected his growth as a performer and composer. This concert film showcases his diverse discography while highlighting his evolution into a unique musical storyteller.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Strapping Young Lad· Nine Inch Nails· Scorn
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Effervescent! / True North Standout 6:23
- 2 Lucky Animals Standout 3:33
- 3 Planet of the Apes 11:02
- 4 Truth 3:59
- 5 War 6:09
- 6 Soul Driven 1:08
- 7 Planet Smasher 6:19
- 8 Babysong 5:30
- 9 Vampolka 1:36
- 10 Vampira 3:42
- 11 Addicted! Standout 5:32
- 12 Color Your World 9:48
- 13 The Greys 4:55
Disc 2
- 1 Hyperdrive 4:44
- 2 Ih-Ah! 3:58
- 3 Where We Belong 4:18
- 4 Detox 6:03
- 5 Bend It Like Bender! 3:36
- 6 Life 4:52
- 7 Kingdom 5:09
- 8 Juular 3:59
- 9 Love? 5:23
- 10 Colonial Boy 2:58
- 11 Grace 6:52
- 12 Little Pig 7:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.