The Third Chimpanzee
Martin Gore · 2021
23 min · 5 tracks · new wave
An atmospheric exploration of primal instincts, blending electronic soundscapes with evocative melodies inspired by the animal kingdom.
Top tracks — play these first
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Howler Start here — Opening the EP, Howler establishes a haunting atmosphere that combines rhythmic pulses with ethereal vocals, setting the stage for the thematic exploration of instinct and emotion.
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Mandrill — This track features a dynamic interplay between synth layers and percussion, illustrating Gore's talent for creating engaging sound structures while conveying animalistic themes.
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Vervet — With its extended runtime, Vervet allows for an immersive sonic journey that reflects on social behavior in both primates and humans, making it a centerpiece of the EP.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong thematic unity and innovative production, reflecting Gore's established style while exploring new ideas.
What we noticed
- The EP features five tracks, each named after a type of primate, creating a thematic coherence throughout.
- Tracks utilize layered electronic textures and ambient soundscapes, often building gradually over their duration.
- Each piece maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, with subtle shifts in dynamics that evoke a sense of introspection.
- 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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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- meditative soundscapes for reflection
- gradual builds to calming resolutions
- emotive melodies evoking nature
- focused listening in quiet spaces
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek upbeat party anthems
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — This EP marks a return to Gore's experimental roots with innovative production.
- Themes
- wild electronic landscapes· nature-inspired rhythms· animalistic instincts
- Career context
- Released in early 2021, The Third Chimpanzee marks Martin Gore's first solo project since his collaboration on the soundtrack for the film 'The Third Chimpanzee' in 2017. This EP comes after a successful tenure with Depeche Mode, showcasing Gore's continued evolution as a solo artist and his ability to craft intricate soundscapes outside of the band's iconic framework.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Depeche Mode· Erasure· New Order
Tracklist
- 1 Howler Start here 4:56
- 2 Mandrill 4:01
- 3 Capuchin 3:53
- 4 Vervet 8:30
- 5 Howler's End 2:00
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Immunity
Jon Hopkins
Explores nature-inspired soundscapes with immersive electronic textures and emotive melodies.
Dive
Tycho
Shares a similar atmospheric quality with lush, organic synths and a focus on natural rhythms.
New Energy
Four Tet
Combines experimental electronic elements with a rhythmic pulse reflecting nature's fluidity.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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