What makes Traditional Techniques by Stephen Malkmus notable?

Traditional Techniques received positive reviews for its lyrical depth and sonic experimentation, appearing on several year-end lists including those from Pitchfork and The Guardian. The album also marked Malkmus's continued evolution as a solo artist, gaining attention for its thematic exploration of personal and societal issues amid an increasingly complex cultural landscape. Released in 2020, Traditional Techniques is Stephen Malkmus's first solo album since 2018's Sparkle Hard and showcases a return to a more stripped-back sound. Following years of experimentation with the Jicks and various side projects, this album reflects a deliberate shift towards simplicity and acoustic instrumentation, aligning with his long-standing artistic ethos.

How many songs are on Traditional Techniques?

Traditional Techniques has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Traditional Techniques

Stephen Malkmus · 2020

41 min · 10 tracks · indie rock

A lo-fi, introspective collection blending folk and rock with Malkmus's signature playful lyricism and experimental textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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ACC Kirtan — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its meditative rhythm and layered vocals, encapsulating Malkmus's blend of introspection and musical exploration.
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Shadowbanned — This track dives into themes of censorship and social media culture, showcasing Malkmus's sharp wit and commentary on contemporary issues through catchy melodies.
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What Kind of Person — With its poignant lyrics reflecting on identity and self-perception, this song serves as a central piece that intertwines personal narrative with broader existential questions.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Malkmus's lyrical playfulness and experimental approach within a stripped-back sound.

What we noticed

Malkmus employs unconventional song structures, often shifting between sections without clear transitions.
Lyrically, the songs contain playful yet introspective themes, with many lines delivered in a conversational tone.
Several tracks incorporate ambient textures and layered vocals, creating a lo-fi atmosphere that enhances the introspective quality.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 ACC Kirtan 6:19
2 Xian Man 4:06
3 The Greatest Own in Legal History 3:47
4 Cash Up 4:06
5 Shadowbanned 3:23
6 What Kind of Person 3:28
7 Flowin’ Robes 2:52
8 Brainwashed 4:58
9 Signal Western 3:46
10 Amberjack 4:18

What to play next

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Groove Denied

2019

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indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata