Vicissitude
Maps · 2013
53 min · 10 tracks · indie rock
Ethereal soundscapes blend with rhythmic pulses, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of change and reflection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Built to Last — This track features an uplifting chorus that contrasts with its melancholic verses, encapsulating the album's exploration of resilience amidst change.
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You Will Find a Way — With its driving rhythm and hopeful lyrics, this song serves as a beacon of encouragement, reflecting the central theme of navigating life's challenges.
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Vicissitude — The title track offers a contemplative atmosphere that highlights Chapman's signature blend of electronic elements with organic instrumentation, representing the album's core concept.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features immersive soundscapes and strong production but lacks standout moments that elevate it further.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks build a consistent mid-tempo rhythm, while the fourth track introduces a more ambient soundscape that shifts the album's tone.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a sense of depth and texture, particularly in 'Nicholas' and 'Vicissitude'.
- The last two tracks slow down significantly, allowing for introspection and a reflective conclusion to the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- reflective emotional landscapes
- introspective journeys through sound
- patient unfolding of themes
- headphone detail exploration
- late-night contemplative moments
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2013, Vicissitude marked Maps' third studio album, following the critically acclaimed debut, We Can Create, and the more experimental second album, Turning the Mind. At this point in his career, musician James Chapman was exploring deeper emotional themes and expanding his sonic palette, firmly establishing his voice within the indie rock genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- M83· The Album Leaf· Tycho
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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A.M.A.
A pivotal moment occurs where the narrative shifts from personal struggle to a broader reflection on connection and disconnection.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 A.M.A. 4:30
- 2 Built to Last 6:15
- 3 You Will Find a Way 6:18
- 4 I Heard Them Say 4:27
- 5 Nicholas 6:37
- 6 Vicissitude 3:40
- 7 Left Behind 5:06
- 8 This Summer 5:05
- 9 Insignificant Others 5:54
- 10 Adjusted to the Darkness 6:06
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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