What makes This Is Our Science by Astronautalis notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and was praised in various publications, contributing to Astronautalis’s growing influence in the indie hip-hop scene. It also showcases a thematic depth that resonated with listeners, marking a significant moment in his artistic evolution as an independent artist. This Is Our Science is Astronautalis’s third studio album, released in 2011 after his breakthrough with Pomegranate. At this point, he was establishing a reputation for his unique storytelling and blending of genres, moving beyond traditional hip-hop into more experimental territories.

Who is This Is Our Science for?

This Is Our Science works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, gradual builds and payoffs and introspective late-night reflections.

How many songs are on This Is Our Science?

This Is Our Science has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

This Is Our Science

Astronautalis · 2011

37 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop

A genre-blurring fusion of introspective lyricism and eclectic instrumentation that challenges conventional hip-hop boundaries.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Is Our Science — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of exploration and introspection, showcasing Astronautalis's dynamic flow and reflective lyricism.
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Dimitri Mendeleev — This track cleverly intertwines historical references with personal narrative, reflecting on legacy and identity through vivid storytelling.
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Holy Water — With its haunting melody and emotive lyrics, this song delves into themes of redemption and spiritual longing, highlighting Astronautalis's lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's eclectic mix of styles and introspective lyrics create a distinctive listening experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature abrupt shifts in tempo and style, such as 'Dimitri Mendeleev,' which transitions from a slow build to an energetic climax.
Lyrically, the album employs dense storytelling with multi-syllabic rhymes, often weaving historical references into personal narratives.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
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

steady, consistent energy levels
gradual builds and payoffs
introspective late-night reflections
cerebral listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: This Is Our Science is Astronautalis’s third studio album, released in 2011 after his breakthrough with Pomegranate. At this point, he was establishing a reputation for his unique storytelling and blending of genres, moving beyond traditional hip-hop into more experimental territories.
Stylistic neighbors: Sage Francis· Busdriver· Aesop Rock