What makes Unieqav by Alva Noto notable?

The album received positive reviews for its innovative sound design, with notable mentions in publications like 'Resident Advisor' and 'Pitchfork'. It showcases Noto's ability to push the boundaries of electronica while influencing contemporary experimental music artists. With 'Unieqav', Alva Noto was at a pivotal moment in his career, following his acclaimed collaboration with Ryuichi Sakamoto on 'async' in 2017. This album represents a deepening of his exploration into granular synthesis and sound manipulation, building on his established reputation in the electronic music scene.

Unieqav works well if you're into steady pacing for focused listening, invites deep reflection and thought and consistent flow with subtle peaks.

How many songs are on Unieqav?

Unieqav has 12 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Unieqav

Alva Noto · 2018

54 min · 12 tracks · electronica

A mesmerizing blend of glitchy textures, rhythmic pulses, and minimalistic melodies that evokes a sense of digital abstraction.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Uni Sub — Opening with expansive low frequencies and intricate sound layering, this track sets the tone for the album's immersive sonic journey.
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Uni Mia — This piece features dynamic shifts between rhythm and texture, showcasing Noto's mastery of manipulating sound space effectively.
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Uni DNA — The track stands out for its complex arrangement and intricate use of percussive elements, encapsulating the essence of digital abstraction present throughout the album.

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

The album showcases innovative sound design with a cohesive flow, though its impact remains niche within the genre.

What we noticed

The album consists of 12 tracks, each with a distinct sonic texture that varies in rhythm and intensity.
Tracks often feature minimalistic melodies layered over glitchy soundscapes, creating a sense of digital abstraction.
Several pieces utilize granular synthesis techniques, resulting in shifting sound patterns that evolve throughout their duration.

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

steady pacing for focused listening
invites deep reflection and thought
consistent flow with subtle peaks
ideal for immersive headphone sessions

Maybe skip if you

not for instant gratification seekers
skip if preferring upbeat energy

Where this album fits

Career context: With 'Unieqav', Alva Noto was at a pivotal moment in his career, following his acclaimed collaboration with Ryuichi Sakamoto on 'async' in 2017. This album represents a deepening of his exploration into granular synthesis and sound manipulation, building on his established reputation in the electronic music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Ryuichi Sakamoto· Fennesz· Murcof