Time Turns Elastic cover

Time Turns Elastic

Trey Anastasio · 2009

42 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A sprawling exploration of melodies interweaving with intricate guitar work and reflective lyrics that evoke a sense of journey.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Time Turns Elastic - Original Acoustic Demo — This extensive demo encapsulates the intricate layering of guitar riffs and lyrical depth, offering listeners insight into Anastasio's creative process.
  • →
    Song at Dawn — The opening track sets a contemplative tone with its gentle melody and reflective lyrics, establishing the album's thematic resonance.
  • →
    Landslide — This track features a poignant narrative about change and acceptance, showcasing Anastasio's ability to blend personal themes with universal experiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases ambitious structures and intricate melodies but lacks strong cohesion across its varied lengths.

What we noticed

  • The title track, 'Time Turns Elastic', is over thirteen minutes long and features multiple sections that shift in tempo and mood.
  • Each of the first eight tracks is under five minutes, creating a contrast with the expansive nature of the final track.
  • The album incorporates intricate guitar solos that often build on themes introduced in earlier songs, creating a sense of continuity.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

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

  • wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
  • intimate acoustic moments throughout
  • journeying through melodic exploration
  • reflective listening for focused sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2009, Time Turns Elastic marks Trey Anastasio's first studio album since Phish's hiatus in 2004. This project showcases his evolution as a solo artist, blending progressive rock elements with jazz and acoustic influences. The album follows the collaborative effort of his earlier works, highlighting a more introspective and mature songwriting approach.
Stylistic neighbors
Phish· Umphrey's McGee· Dave Matthews Band

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Landslide

    A pivotal moment where the narrative shifts from contemplation to acceptance, illustrating a journey through personal struggles.

    The transition in perspective highlights resilience and growth, making it a cornerstone of the album's emotional landscape.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Song at Dawn 5:13
  • 2 Ruby Shaded Sea 4:35
  • 3 Submarine 3:23
  • 4 Landslide 3:58
  • 5 Rays of Blue Light 3:01
  • 6 Silver Sound Shower 3:57
  • 7 Hailstorm 1:40
  • 8 Funnels 1:02
  • 9 Carousel 2:26
  • 10 Time Turns Elastic - Original Acoustic Demo 13:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata