What makes Trickfinger II by John Frusciante notable?

Trickfinger II received positive critical reception, highlighting Frusciante's innovative approach to electronic music. The album solidified his reputation as a versatile artist beyond rock, influencing aspiring musicians within the electronic and experimental music scenes. Released in 2017, Trickfinger II is John Frusciante's follow-up to his debut album under the Trickfinger moniker. At this point, he was transitioning from his tenure with the Red Hot Chili Peppers and delving deeper into his solo work, particularly in electronic music, having previously explored various genres throughout his career.

Who is Trickfinger II for?

Trickfinger II works well if you're into hypnotic soundscapes, steady progression with resolution and short focused listening sessions.

How many songs are on Trickfinger II?

Trickfinger II has 6 tracks, running approximately 25 minutes.

Trickfinger II

John Frusciante · 2017

25 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

Experimental electronic textures intertwine with rhythmic pulses, creating a hypnotic soundscape that showcases Frusciante's diverse musical exploration.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Shift Sync — Opening the album, Shift Sync introduces listeners to the unique sonic palette of Trickfinger II, combining intricate electronic beats with ambient textures that set the stage for the tracks to follow.
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Ruche — Ruche stands out with its hypnotic rhythms and melodic layers, showcasing Frusciante's ability to blend organic sounds with digital manipulation, creating a captivating auditory journey.
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Exclaim — This track exemplifies Frusciante's experimental approach, featuring complex arrangements and unexpected shifts that highlight his innovative techniques in sound design.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Frusciante's exploration of electronic textures creates a unique soundscape that rewards attentive listening.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a steady rhythmic pulse that gradually layers in electronic textures, setting a hypnotic tone.
Each subsequent track introduces new sonic elements while maintaining a cohesive atmosphere, often shifting dynamics without traditional song structures.
The EP features moments of silence and minimalism, particularly in the second half, which contrasts with the more densely layered opening tracks.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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

hypnotic soundscapes
steady progression with resolution
short focused listening sessions
immersive headphone detail exploration

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2017, Trickfinger II is John Frusciante's follow-up to his debut album under the Trickfinger moniker. At this point, he was transitioning from his tenure with the Red Hot Chili Peppers and delving deeper into his solo work, particularly in electronic music, having previously explored various genres throughout his career.
Stylistic neighbors: Josh Klinghoffer· James Blake· The Mars Volta