What makes Transistor by 311 notable?

The album debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing the band's growing popularity and solidifying their presence in the late '90s rock landscape. It is notable for its experimental sound and was met with mixed critical reception, yet it remains a significant part of 311's discography as they navigated their artistic direction during this period. When 'Transistor' was released on June 30, 1997, 311 had just experienced commercial success with their self-titled album in 1995. This third studio album came as the band sought to expand their sound further, embracing diverse influences while solidifying their identity within the alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on Transistor?

Transistor has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Transistor

311 · 1997

3 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of alternative rock and funk with rhythmic grooves and a laid-back lyrical style that invites introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Transistor — The title track serves as an anthem for individuality and self-expression, encapsulating the album's thematic focus on connectivity and personal resonance through sound.

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

Transistor showcases a mix of styles with varied vocal techniques, but its depth may not sustain long-term engagement.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, creating a varied vocal delivery that shifts between melodic singing and rhythmic speech.
The last three tracks feature a noticeable drop in tempo, allowing the album to conclude on a more reflective note.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — It represents a deliberate departure from the band's established sound.
Career context: When 'Transistor' was released on June 30, 1997, 311 had just experienced commercial success with their self-titled album in 1995. This third studio album came as the band sought to expand their sound further, embracing diverse influences while solidifying their identity within the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Incubus· Red Hot Chili Peppers· Cake