If you’re a fan of Incubus or new to their music, knowing how their studio albums stack up can deepen your appreciation. This list ranks all their official studio releases, highlighting what makes each one unique and worth exploring. Whether you’re a casual listener or a dedicated collector, this guide offers insight into Incubus’s evolving sound and standout moments across their discography.
1. Make Yourself (1999)
Often considered Incubus’s breakthrough album, “Make Yourself” features iconic tracks like “Drive” and “Pardon Me.” It blends alternative rock with funk and nu-metal influences, showcasing a more polished sound compared to their debut. Its accessibility and memorable hooks make it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.
2. Morning View (2001)
“Morning View” captures a more melodic and atmospheric side of Incubus, with songs like “Wish You Were Here” and “Nice to Know You.” Recorded at a house overlooking the ocean, the album exudes a relaxed vibe that complements its introspective lyrics. It’s praised for its cohesiveness and mood, offering a serene listening experience.
3. A Crow Left of the Murder (2004)
This album marks a heavier, more aggressive turn for Incubus, featuring tracks like “Megalomaniac” and “Are You In?” The band experimented with more complex arrangements and darker themes, reflecting a mature but energetic sound. It’s appreciated for its dynamic range and lyrical depth.
4. Light Grenades (2006)
“Light Grenades” combines the band’s melodic sensibilities with experimental touches, evident in tracks like “Anna Molly” and “Oil and Water.” The album balances radio-ready singles with more layered, textured compositions. Its diversity makes it a compelling listen for fans seeking variety.
5. If Not Now, When? (2011)
This album was a significant departure, leaning into a more relaxed, jam-oriented sound influenced by classic rock and funk. Songs like “Promises, Promises” and “Adolescents” showcase a band exploring new sonic territory. Critics have noted its laid-back vibe and lyrical introspection, making it a unique entry in their catalog.
6. Fungus Amongus (1995)
Incubus’s debut album introduces their funk-metal roots with tracks like “Redefine” and “Fungus Amongus.” While raw and less polished, it captures the band’s energetic early days and experimental spirit. For die-hard fans, it offers a glimpse into their origins and early sound.
7. S.C.I.E.N.C.E. (1997)
“S.C.I.E.N.C.E.” is a chaotic, experimental album blending funk, metal, and experimental sounds, with tracks like “New Skin” and “Vitamin.” Its unconventional structure and energetic delivery make it a cult favorite, showcasing their willingness to push boundaries. It’s a must-listen for those interested in the band’s more avant-garde phase.
8. Trust Fall (Side A) (2015)
Part of the “Trust Fall” double album, Side A features a more electronic and pop-infused sound, with tracks like “Absolution Calling.” It represents a shift towards a more accessible, modern indie-rock style, reflecting the band’s evolution. Fans of their more experimental side might find this album a refreshing change.
9. Trust Fall (Side B) (2015)
Complementing Side A, Side B continues with a synth-heavy, introspective vibe, including songs like “Dance Like You’re Dumb.” It’s more subdued and atmospheric, emphasizing mood over melody. Together, the two sides offer a comprehensive look at Incubus’s modern experimentation.
10. Incubus (2017)
The self-titled album marks a return to a more straightforward rock sound, with energetic tracks like “Nimble Bastard” and “Into the Summer.” It balances their experimental past with a focus on catchy hooks and tight production. For fans wanting a contemporary yet familiar Incubus, this album delivers.
How to Choose
When selecting an Incubus album to explore, consider what aspects of their music you enjoy most. Are you drawn to their early funk-metal energy, their melodic alternative rock, or their experimental phases? Think about the mood you prefer—relaxed and atmospheric or energetic and aggressive. Also, note the production style and lyrical themes, as Incubus’s sound has evolved significantly over the years. Listening to key singles or opening tracks from each album can help you find your favorite entry point into their discography.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Incubus’s most popular album? – “Make Yourself” is widely regarded as their most popular and commercially successful album, thanks to hits like “Drive” and “Pardon Me.”
- Which Incubus album should I start with? – For newcomers, “Make Yourself” or “Morning View” are great starting points due to their accessibility and classic tracks.
- How has Incubus’s sound changed over the years? – They evolved from funk-metal and alternative rock to incorporating more electronic, experimental, and pop influences, reflecting their willingness to innovate.
- Are there any albums that are considered underrated? – “Fungus Amongus” and “S.C.I.E.N.C.E.” are often praised by fans for their raw energy and experimental spirit, though they are less mainstream.
- Which album features the song “Anna Molly”? – “Light Grenades” (2006) features “Anna Molly,” one of their most popular singles.
- Did Incubus ever change their lineup? – The core lineup has remained consistent since the late 1990s, with Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger, and Jose Pasillas as key members.
Final Thoughts
Incubus’s discography is a testament to their versatility and willingness to experiment across genres. From the raw energy of “Fungus Amongus” to the polished melodies of “Morning View” and the experimental edge of “Trust Fall,” each album offers a different flavor of their evolving sound. Your best choice depends on your musical preferences—whether you crave their early funk-metal roots or their later atmospheric and electronic explorations. Exploring their albums in chronological order can provide a deeper appreciation of their growth as artists and their impact on alternative music over the decades.
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