Time to Die
The Dodos · 2009
45 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock
An intricate tapestry of folk-inspired melodies intertwined with rhythmically complex percussion and introspective lyricism.
Top tracks — play these first
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Fables — This track encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of storytelling and introspection, combining delicate melodies with layered instrumentation that builds towards an emotionally charged climax.
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Time to Die — The title track serves as a poignant centerpiece, featuring haunting vocals and a gradual escalation of instrumentation that mirrors the weighty themes of mortality and change.
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Small Deaths — Opening the album, this song sets the tone with its intricate guitar work and reflective lyrics that introduce listeners to the contemplative nature of the entire project.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The Dodos weave intricate melodies and rhythms, creating a distinct sound that rewards repeated listens.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a soft, layered vocal harmony that gradually builds into a more complex arrangement by the second track.
- The final track concludes with an extended instrumental outro that fades out slowly, allowing the listener to reflect on the preceding themes.
- 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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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- introspective reflection moments
- steady, consistent pacing
- gradual builds and payoffs
- long, immersive listening sessions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2009, Time to Die is The Dodos' third studio album, following the critically acclaimed Visiter from 2008. At this point, the duo had established a distinct sound characterized by rich acoustic instrumentation and layered harmonies, positioning them as notable figures in the indie rock scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Fleet Foxes· Sufjan Stevens· Grizzly Bear
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Small Deaths 5:19
- 2 Longform 4:39
- 3 Fables 4:18
- 4 The Strums 4:47
- 5 This Is a Business 4:39
- 6 Two Medicines 5:27
- 7 Troll Nacht 6:23
- 8 Acorn Factory 4:04
- 9 Time to Die 6:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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