When Incubus Attacks, Vol. 1 cover

When Incubus Attacks, Vol. 1

Incubus · 2000

27 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

An acoustic exploration that captures Incubus' dynamic sound through intimate renditions and live energy.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Pardon Me (acoustic) Start here — This track transforms one of Incubus' most recognizable songs into a raw, emotive acoustic version, showcasing their lyrical depth and musical adaptability.
  • →
    Stellar (acoustic) — The acoustic rendition of 'Stellar' highlights its melodic beauty while allowing the emotional core of the lyrics to shine through in a new light.
  • →
    Crowded Elevator — 'Crowded Elevator' presents a more experimental side of Incubus, blending their alt-rock roots with funk elements that define much of their sound during this era.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100
Lowland
Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

This EP features acoustic reinterpretations and live tracks, highlighting Incubus' versatility but lacks strong cohesion.

What we noticed

  • Track four introduces an original song that contrasts with the acoustic style, shifting the energy of the EP.
  • The last two tracks feature live recordings, adding a different texture and atmosphere compared to the studio versions.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • acoustic renditions of familiar hits
  • live energy with intimate feel
  • short bursts of emotional connection
  • gradual build towards climactic finish

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of lengthy tracks
  • dislike acoustic interpretations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Highlights Incubus' acoustic side but isn't a defining work in their catalog.
Themes
acoustic intimacy· live energy· emotional rawness
Moods
Nostalgic· Chill
Career context
Released in 2000, When Incubus Attacks, Vol. 1 marks a transitional phase for the band, following their breakthrough album Make Yourself in 1999. This compilation highlights their growing popularity and showcases the versatility of their music through both acoustic and live performances.
Stylistic neighbors
Deftones· Faith No More· Red Hot Chili Peppers

Tracklist

  • 1 Pardon Me (acoustic) Start here 3:47
  • 2 Stellar (acoustic) 3:15
  • 3 Make Yourself (acoustic) 3:20
  • 4 Crowded Elevator 4:45
  • 5 Favorite Things (live) 3:44
  • 6 Pardon Me (live) / We're Smokin' the Herb Again 8:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata