Is The Satanic Satanist a good place to start with Portugal. The Man?

Yes, The Satanic Satanist is recommended as a starting point for new Portugal. The Man listeners. A vibrant blend of indie rock and pop, pulsating with catchy melodies and introspective lyrics. Released in early 2009, The Satanic Satanist marks Portugal. The Man's fourth studio album and their first major release under a new label following a series of EPs. This album showcases the band's artistic evolution as they transitioned from their previous darker sound to a more accessible, melodic approach, reflecting their growing confidence and ambition.

Who is The Satanic Satanist for?

The Satanic Satanist works well if you're into uplifting contemplative afternoon drive, short bursts of introspective energy and easygoing morning coffee soundtrack.

How many songs are on The Satanic Satanist?

The Satanic Satanist has 11 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

The Satanic Satanist

Portugal. The Man · 2009

34 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant blend of indie rock and pop, pulsating with catchy melodies and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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People Say Start here — This track encapsulates the album's upbeat spirit with its infectious chorus and catchy hooks, serving as a defining anthem for the band's sound.
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The Sun — The Sun stands out with its bright instrumentation and uplifting lyrics that convey themes of hope and renewal, embodying the essence of the album.
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Everyone Is Golden — With its anthemic quality and sing-along chorus, this song represents the album's celebration of life and positivity, making it a fan favorite.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic and introspective moments, showcasing solid songwriting and vocal arrangements.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with a consistent tempo, while the second half introduces slower, more introspective songs.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'The Sun' and 'Everyone Is Golden'.
The album closes with 'Mornings', which shifts to a more subdued arrangement, contrasting with the earlier energetic songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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

uplifting contemplative afternoon drive
short bursts of introspective energy
easygoing morning coffee soundtrack
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer long, sprawling compositions
need immediate high-energy tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a significant commercial success and wider recognition for the band.
Themes: post-recession optimism· California sunshine
Career context: Released in early 2009, The Satanic Satanist marks Portugal. The Man's fourth studio album and their first major release under a new label following a series of EPs. This album showcases the band's artistic evolution as they transitioned from their previous darker sound to a more accessible, melodic approach, reflecting their growing confidence and ambition.
Stylistic neighbors: Tame Impala· MGMT· Foster the People

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Guns & Dogs

The moment shifts from a narrative about struggle to a vivid description of contrasting imagery between violence and innocence.

This juxtaposition highlights the complexity of human experience, creating tension that underscores the song's deeper commentary on societal issues.