Released September 9, 1997 Length 55:52 | Recorded May–June 1997 Label Epic, Immortal | |
Studio 4th Street Recording, Santa Monica, California Genre Alternative metal
funk metal
nu metal
rap metal | ||
S.C.I.E.N.C.E. is the second album by American rock band Incubus, released on September 9, 1997 by Epic Records. The album has been certified Gold by the RIAA. It has been mentioned by various band members that the acronym S.C.I.E.N.C.E. stands for Sailing Catamarans Is Every Nautical Captain's Ecstasy. "Sometimes we just sit around and come up with these for laughs. In other words, there's not just one meaning, it's just food for thought," says singer Brandon Boyd. This is the first and only Incubus studio album to feature DJ Lyfe.
Contents
Production
After releasing their independent debut album Fungus Amongus, Incubus signed a seven-record deal with the Sony-owned Immortal Records. Their first major label effort S.C.I.E.N.C.E was recorded during May–June 1997. Singer Brandon Boyd said "S.C.I.E.N.C.E. was done in six weeks in a very small, charming studio in Santa Monica. Very different experience, but very important on this band's existence."
Music
S.C.I.E.N.C.E. is influenced by diverse genres, including heavy metal, electro, funk, jazz, hip hop and techno. According to Rolling Stone writer Rob Kemp, S.C.I.E.N.C.E. "links funk metal to the rap metal". "Magic Medicine" incorporates elements of trip hop, sampling a recorded reading of a children's book.
Reception
Critics praised the album's diversity of styles. Pitchfork Media wrote that Incubus "successfully combines all sorts of [music genres] without sounding like a mess". AllMusic reviewer David Thomas wrote that "The numerous styles on the album don't always blend perfectly, but they create a solid sound that defines the band. Incubus also manages to make their songs upbeat and danceable as well as tunes to headbang to. An admirable feat in a genre that tends to reward decibel levels instead of quality." Drop-D Magazine reviewer Darren Kerr praised the album for its originality. In 2015, VH1 ranked the album tenth on their list of "The 12 Most Underrated Nu Metal Albums".
Track listing
All tracks written by Incubus, except where noted.