Review
Crystal Castles' second studio album, II, is a haunting and electrifying journey into experimental electronic music. Released in 2010, the record builds on the chaotic energy of their debut while introducing a darker, more atmospheric tone. Ethan Kath's production is layered with distorted synths, glitchy beats, and unsettling textures, while Alice Glass's vocals range from ethereal whispers to urgent, piercing cries, creating an emotionally raw contrast. Standout tracks like Baptism and Celestica showcase the duo's ability to fuse beauty and brutality, blending lo-fi noise with melodic elements. The album feels both confrontational and introspective, maintaining an edge that keeps listeners on their toes. While occasionally abrasive, II is a bold, immersive experience that captures the restless spirit of its creators. It's a defining moment in the evolution of noise-pop and a landmark in Crystal Castles' legacy.
Info
"(II)" is the second studio album by Canadian electronic music duo Crystal Castles. It was released on May 24, 2010 in the United Kingdom and on May 25, 2010 in the United States. The album was issued through Fiction Records in the UK and by Universal Motown in the US. "(II)" was produced by Ethan Kath, one half of the duo, and recorded in various locations including a church in Iceland, an abandoned cabin in Ontario, and a garage in Detroit. The album features a darker, more ethereal and experimental tone compared to their debut, reflecting themes of dystopia and emotional isolation. Upon release, the album was well-received critically and achieved commercial success, reaching number 48 on the UK Albums Chart and number 77 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
Tracklisting
- Fainting Spells
- Celestica
- Doe Deer - 12" Version
- Baptism
- Year Of Silence
- Empathy
- Suffocation
- Violent Dreams
- Vietnam
- Birds
- Pap Smear
- Not In Love - Radio Version
- Intimate
- I Am Made Of Chalk