Halo 8: The Downward Spiral
With 1994's LP, Trent Reznor decided to put out a concept album that would be self-reflective and have a definite beginning, middle, and end. Often regarded as the best NIN album, The Downward Spiral gives the listener every reason to believe that it may not just be the best NIN album, but one of the best albums in recorded history. Dark, multi-layered, and lyrically challenging, TDS offered a new perspective in regards to the concept album. It's a fairly bleak album that requires your attention, no matter how unsettling. There are moments in this album that will shake your very foundation, that will move you to tears, and it's all masterfully crafted. Despite all of the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope by the end for our narrator and that's the best sort of comfort and assurance one can be given as a listener. As a whole, I feel The Downward Spiral in its entirety is an experience that is rewarding in every aspect. Be it the artwork by Russell Mills, the packaging, the lyric sheet, etc. I feel when it comes to concept albums, everything about the album should engross the listener because it's all part of the experience. The artwork plays an essential role in engaging and being every bit as multi-layered and challenging as the album itself. With The Fragile, Reznor tried to take artificial noises and make them sound organic, thus giving TDS its own trademark sound that differentiates it from previous albums. The album, in my humble opinion, is without flaw. This is as good as place as any to start if you've never experienced Nine Inch Nails. Because it is held in such high regard, it's become the most accessible. Though, I would argue the soundscape is still incredibly lush and gritty as it was when I first heard it. A highly recommended experience.