Treasure State
Matmos · 2010
49 min · 8 tracks · electronic music
An experimental soundscape where found sounds and electronic textures intertwine to create an immersive auditory experience.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Water — This track stands out for its fluid textures and rhythmic variations, encapsulating the album's exploration of natural elements through electronic music.
-
→
Needles — Here, Matmos utilizes prickly sounds that mimic the sensation of needles, creating a dynamic interplay between discomfort and fascination that highlights their sonic experimentation.
-
→
Aluminum — This track features metallic clinks and ambient drones that evoke industrial landscapes, representing a critical commentary on materiality within both music and society.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's innovative sound design and seamless transitions create a unique listening experience.
What we noticed
- Tracks often transition seamlessly into one another, creating a continuous flow that enhances the immersive experience.
- Several pieces utilize unconventional rhythms and structures, challenging traditional song formats and expectations.
- 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
-
9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
8/10
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
- immersive soundscapes for exploration
- patient unfolding of textures
- engaging background for creativity
- dynamic contrasts in pacing
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2010, Treasure State is Matmos' sixth studio album, following the acclaimed Supreme Balloon from 2006. At this point, the duo had established themselves as pioneers in experimental electronic music, blending unconventional samples with intricate compositions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Oval· The Books· Mouse on Mars
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Flame
The moment shifts from abstract sound collages to a direct auditory representation of flickering flames, creating an evocative imagery shift.
This transition exemplifies Matmos' knack for transforming everyday sounds into engaging narratives, highlighting their ability to invoke vivid imagery through audio alone.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Treasure 4:03
- 2 Water 7:00
- 3 Needles 6:00
- 4 Cross 6:26
- 5 Shard 6:57
- 6 Swamp 6:59
- 7 Aluminum 7:03
- 8 Flame 4:35
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.