The Shaming of the True
Kevin Gilbert · 2000
67 min · 14 tracks · progressive rock
Eclectic progressive rock compositions intertwine intricate melodies with satirical lyrics, creating a profound exploration of the music industry and personal identity.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Certifiable #1 Smash — This track serves as a biting commentary on the music industry's commercialization, using catchy hooks to emphasize its satirical critique of mainstream trends.
-
→
The City of the Sun — With its lush arrangements and emotional depth, this song encapsulates Gilbert's introspective songwriting while addressing themes of isolation and yearning.
-
→
Parade — Opening the album with vibrant energy, this track sets the stage for the thematic explorations that follow, blending playful instrumentation with serious undertones.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate compositions and satirical lyrics create a unique exploration of identity and the music industry.
What we noticed
- Several songs include intricate vocal harmonies that layer multiple melodies simultaneously, enhancing the thematic depth.
- The lyrics often employ satire and irony, directly addressing the music industry and personal struggles, which is evident in tracks like 'Suit Fugue'.
- The final track, 'Johnny's Last Song', serves as a reflective conclusion, contrasting with the more energetic pieces earlier in the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
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.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Ghetto of Beautiful Things
A poignant moment occurs when the narrative shifts from external observations to a deeply personal reflection on beauty and despair.
This shift highlights Gilbert's ability to juxtapose societal critiques with intimate self-exploration, enhancing the emotional weight of the song.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Parade 3:44
- 2 The City of the Sun 5:55
- 3 Suit Fugue (Dance of the A&R men) 2:24
- 4 Imagemaker 3:39
- 5 Water Under the Bridge 5:29
- 6 The Best Laid Plans 5:38
- 7 Certifiable #1 Smash 7:22
- 8 Staring Into Nothing 5:51
- 9 Fun 5:33
- 10 From Here to There 2:11
- 11 Ghetto of Beautiful Things 4:53
- 12 A Long Day's Life 7:29
- 13 The Way Back Home 4:55
- 14 Johnny's Last Song 2:15
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.