In Between The Tracks 50 Interludes For Study Flow

Have you ever listened to an album and found a short, often instrumental track nestled between two main songs? That’s an album interlude. These musical breathers are more than just filler; they are the unsung heroes of a great album’s structure. They serve as a palate cleanser, shifting the mood, providing a moment of reflection, and weaving a more cohesive narrative from start to finish. While often overlooked, the best album interludes are miniature masterpieces, perfect for study sessions, deep focus, or simply appreciating musical artistry in a compact form.

Many people might associate me with heavier music—genres like post-hardcore and metal, with bands such as Memphis May Fire, Underoath, and As I Lay Dying being regular features on my playlists. While I do have a deep appreciation for the intensity and complexity of rock and metal, my musical tastes are far more eclectic. On any given day, my listening journey might take me from the soulful funk of Janelle Monáe to the Swedish hip-hop of Looptroop, and then to the harmonious folk of Fleet Foxes. This diverse musical diet has exposed me to a wide array of artistic expressions, but it’s within the world of rock and metal that I’ve found a true breeding ground for exceptional interludes.

So, what exactly defines an interlude? It’s typically a short track placed in the middle of an album, though sometimes it can serve as an introduction or an outro. Interludes are usually instrumental and often present a stark contrast to the surrounding material, offering a softer, more atmospheric, or stylistically different sound. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, as you’ll see in this list. One of the greatest benefits of these tracks is their power as incredible study music, helping to create a focused and calm environment without distracting lyrics.

Driven by a passion for these hidden gems, I embarked on a quest to find the most captivating album interludes ever recorded. My method was simple: I sorted my extensive music library by song duration and explored the tracks falling within the 1:30 to 2:00 minute range. After sifting through countless video game soundtracks and other short recordings, I curated a definitive collection. This list represents the 50 greatest album interludes across genres and time, each a unique piece of art. It’s important to note that some of these songs end abruptly, as they are designed to transition seamlessly into the next track on their original album. Also, many are simply titled “Interlude,” so pay close attention to the artist to keep them straight.

Each entry includes the artist, the album it’s from, and a brief take on what makes the track special. Every artist link will take you to their page for further exploration. Get ready to discover your new favorite focus playlist.

“Viridian”

Artist: Between the Buried and Me
Album: Colors
My Take: “Viridian” serves as the tranquil eye of the storm on the band’s chaotic masterpiece, *Colors*. The track begins with delicate, whimsical chimes before giving way to a stunningly melodic and intricate bass solo. The bass work is fluid and expressive, showcasing incredible technical skill without sacrificing emotion. It’s a moment of sheer beauty and calm that provides a crucial dynamic shift before the album plunges back into its signature progressive metal intensity. This interlude is a testament to the band’s versatility and leads into one of the best metalcore songs ever written.

“Interlude”

Artist: Attack Attack!
Album: Someday Came Suddenly
My Take: This is a straight-up techno track, which is no surprise given that Attack Attack! famously integrated dance and electronic beats into their brand of post-hardcore. This interlude strips away all the hardcore elements, leaving a pure, upbeat techno experience. The synth work is well-crafted, creating a happy and energetic vibe that contrasts sharply with the aggressive breakdowns found elsewhere on the album. The album also features a fantastic piano-driven piece titled “Outro.”

“Amygdala”

Artist: Sienna Skies
Album: Truest of Colors
My Take: The amygdala is the part of the brain associated with emotion, and this track is fittingly atmospheric. Over two minutes, it builds a mood with chill drumming, a low, pulsing synth, and a simple, repeating melodic sequence. It’s a cool, meditative piece that doesn’t demand your full attention, making it perfect background music for concentration. It creates a thoughtful space on an otherwise high-energy album.

“The Burden”

Artist: Memphis May Fire
Album: The Hollow
My Take: *The Hollow* is a concept album where each song title begins with “The,” and this interlude is no exception. “The Burden” sets a dramatic tone by putting a heated argument to music. The tense dialogue in the background, layered over a somber musical bed, effectively conveys a feeling of emotional weight and conflict. It’s a powerful narrative tool that adds depth and context to one of the best post-hardcore releases of its time.

“All of the Lights (Interlude)”

Artist: Kanye West
Album: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
My Take: A brief but beautiful piece from one of the most acclaimed albums of the 21st century. This interlude strips down the grandiosity of the full “All of the Lights” track to its core elements: a poignant piano melody and soaring strings. It’s a moment of pure, cinematic classicism that acts as a perfect bridge, showcasing the musical foundation before the explosive, star-studded main event. Short, sweet, and unforgettable.

“Folkin’ Around”

Artist: Panic! At the Disco
Album: Pretty. Odd.
My Take: With a clever title, this track is almost a full song but its brevity firmly places it in the interlude category. It’s a shame because “Folkin’ Around” is a delightful, jaunty folk tune. Driven by an acoustic guitar, a sweet fiddle, and a harmonica, it’s an incredibly charming and catchy piece. The lyrics are whimsical and fun to sing along to, making it a standout moment on an album known for its departure into 60s-inspired pop-rock.

“Interlude”

Artist: All Time Low
Album: The Party Scene
My Take: Despite the album’s title, this interlude isn’t very party-like. Instead, it offers a more atmospheric and experimental sound. It features mumbled vocal samples over a steady drum beat, a clean guitar line, and a distinct, laser-like synth sound. It’s an interesting textural piece that provides a moment of introspection amidst the band’s usual pop-punk energy.

“ReBirth + ReVerse”

Artist: Abingdon Boys School
Album: Abingdon Boys School
My Take: This is the longest track on the list, clocking in at over seven minutes, but it truly functions as two distinct parts. The first two-and-a-half minutes feature a peaceful, airy piano melody that is both beautiful and calming. The track then shifts dramatically into a four-and-a-half-minute industrial-tinged piece, reminiscent of artists like Celldweller. This second half is completed with powerful orchestral elements and another great piano part, making it an epic journey in its own right.

“Hiatus”

Artist: Asking Alexandria
Album: Stand Up and Scream
My Take: Much like Attack Attack!, Asking Alexandria uses this interlude to fully embrace their electronic influences. “Hiatus” is a pure techno track that serves as a break from the album’s relentless metalcore assault. It features driving synth melodies and a danceable beat, offering a glimpse into the band’s more melodic sensibilities. While it may not be as memorable as some other techno-interludes, it’s a solid and enjoyable diversion.

“St. Anne’s Lullaby”

Artist: Becoming the Archetype
Album: Dichotomy
My Take: The title of the album, *Dichotomy*, is perfectly encapsulated by this song. On an album filled with complex, progressive death metal, “St. Anne’s Lullaby” is a moment of stark, beautiful simplicity. It features a single acoustic guitar playing a gentle, folk-inspired melody. The sound is so pure and timeless that it could easily be a bard strumming in a medieval tavern. It’s a gorgeous and much-needed breath of fresh air.

“Interlude”

Artist: +44
Album: When Your Heart Stops Beating
My Take: This is a simple yet effective interlude. A clean, catchy guitar riff duets with Travis Barker’s signature drumming. It’s easy on the ears, no-frills, and serves as a perfect instrumental bridge on the album. It captures the band’s rock sensibilities in a concise and enjoyable package. A great example of how an interlude doesn’t need to be complex to be great.

“Eremus”

Artist: Haste the Day
Album: Pressure the Hinges
My Take: “Eremus” acts like a musical metronome, with a steady, hypnotic quality. It combines a clean guitar melody with subtle synth textures, creating a very relaxing and atmospheric soundscape. This calm and meditative piece builds anticipation beautifully, serving as an excellent lead-in to the more epic and intense tracks that follow it on the album.

“Woodbox”

Artist: Damiera
Album: Quiet Mouth Loud Hands
My Take: Now here’s a truly interesting and unique interlude. As the name suggests, part of the percussion is played on a wooden box, giving the track a wonderfully organic and rhythmic feel. The guitar work is playful and intricate, reflecting Damiera’s talent for creating unconventional and engaging music. It’s a fun, creative, and memorable piece.

“Interlude”

Artist: The Butterfly Effect
Album: Begins Here
My Take: This track is an ethereal guitar and drum duet that perfectly captures the band’s signature sound. The guitars are drenched in delay, creating a spacious and dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a beautiful, floating piece of music that showcases the band’s ability to create vast soundscapes even in a short format.

“Brushstroke: Reprise”

Artist: Dredg
Album: El Cielo
My Take: Get used to the “Brushstroke” title, as Dredg has mastered the art of the interlude on their album *El Cielo*. This first entry features a prominent, western-style slide guitar that evokes a sense of wide-open spaces. The sustained notes and minimalist approach create a contemplative and cinematic mood, proving Dredg’s skill in crafting evocative instrumentals.

“Laser Speed”

Artist: Between the Buried and Me
Album: Alaska
My Take: On an album known for its raw and aggressive metalcore, “Laser Speed” is a complete and delightful surprise. It starts with a pleasant guitar melody before unexpectedly transitioning into what can only be described as high-quality elevator music. It’s a humorous and quirky break that showcases the band’s playful side amidst the technical brutality.

“Brushstroke: New Heart Shadow”

Artist: Dredg
Album: El Cielo
My Take: Another brilliant “Brushstroke” from Dredg. This one introduces a cool, subtle drum pattern and wavering guitar tones to its instrumental mix. The track builds a more complex texture than its predecessor and concludes with an intriguing voice clip, adding to the album’s mysterious and conceptual feel.

“Interlude”

Artist: I Set My Friends on Fire
Album: You Can’t Spell Slaughter Without Laughter
My Take: This interlude perfectly reflects the band’s chaotic and experimental nature. It’s a short burst of glitchy electronics, frantic synth arpeggios, and heavily processed sounds. It feels like a video game malfunctioning in the most musical way possible, providing a brief, frenetic pause that is entirely in keeping with their wild aesthetic.

“Youtube.com/watch?v=tgMzriO93-Y”

Artist: Sleeping with Sirens
Album: With Ears to See and Eyes to Hear
My Take: Perhaps the laziest song title in history, but the music itself is anything but. This is a simple and beautiful piano piece. Its gentle melody and emotive performance offer a moment of vulnerability and calm, a stark contrast to the high-pitched vocal energy that defines the rest of the album. It’s a surprisingly tender moment.

“Sotto Voce”

Artist: The Human Abstract
Album: Nocturne
My Take: This track is a masterclass in neo-classical acoustic guitar. The Human Abstract is known for their technical prowess, and “Sotto Voce” displays it in a refined, elegant setting. The intricate fingerpicking and beautiful harmonies sound like a modern interpretation of a classical guitar etude. It’s a sophisticated and impressive display of musicianship.

“Commence”

Artist: Sienna Skies
Album: Truest of Colors
My Take: As the intro to the album, “Commence” sets a fantastic tone. The cool, twangy guitar sound is instantly memorable, while the electronic drums and a fanfare-like synth melody with a tape-recorder quality give it a unique, slightly lo-fi charm. It’s an intriguing and stylish opening that builds excitement for what’s to come.

“The Great Collapse”

Artist: Shadows Fall
Album: Threads of Life
My Take: Shadows Fall, a band known for their thrash-influenced metalcore, delivers a surprisingly soft and melodic guitar interlude here. The clean guitar tones are layered beautifully, and about halfway through, a subtle accompanying piano enters, adding another layer of depth. It’s a well-executed and enjoyable moment of tranquility.

“Orph”

Artist: Dredg
Album: Orph EP
My Take: Even on an early EP, Dredg’s unique musical voice shines through. This interlude is truly special, featuring what sounds like a lute and a xylophone. The combination of instruments gives it an almost medieval or world-music quality. It’s a testament to the band’s creativity and their ability to craft something wholly original.

“II. Softlight”

Artist: House vs. Hurricane
Album: Perspectives
My Take: My only complaint about this track is that it’s too short. At just 1:39, “Softlight” is an absolutely brilliant piece of instrumental post-rock. It features soaring guitar melodies, a driving rhythm section, and a powerful, uplifting atmosphere. It feels like the climax of a movie condensed into under two minutes, leaving you wishing it would go on for longer.

“Brushstroke: Walk in the Park”

Artist: Dredg
Album: El Cielo
My Take: Just when you thought we were done with them, here’s another “Brushstroke.” This one has a somber, melancholic tone. The title “Walk in the Park” feels ironic, as the music evokes a feeling of loss or contemplation. It’s a slow, mournful piece that adds another layer of emotional complexity to the album.

“Interlude”

Artist: The Graduate
Album: Anhedonia
My Take: The Graduate is known for their innovative indie rock, and this interlude is a great example of their synth-driven sound. The synthesizer takes the lead here, but it’s not the danceable techno of other bands on this list. Instead, it’s paired with rock drumming and some atmospheric “oohs” to create a cool, 80s-inspired vibe that is both nostalgic and modern.

“Salmarnir”

Artist: Underoath
Album: Define the Great Line
My Take: This is one of the most powerful and intense interludes ever recorded. It features Psalm 50 being spoken in Russian over a somber, minimalist musical backdrop. In the background, you can hear the prayer being yelled in English by another band member, creating a chaotic yet deeply spiritual atmosphere. It’s a haunting, moving, and truly inspiring piece of music.

“Sorrows II”

Artist: Sights and Sounds
Album: Monolith
My Take: This track has a cool, western-inspired sound, filled with desolate-sounding guitar effects that create a sense of vastness. The bass line is particularly strong, providing a solid anchor for the atmospheric layers. When the washed-out vocals come in, the song completely envelops you, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.

“The Lake South”

Artist: The Dear Hunter
Album: Act I: The Lake South, The River North
My Take: The opening to the first of The Dear Hunter’s amazing concept albums, this track perfectly sets the stage. It has a vaudeville, almost Tim Burton-esque quality, sounding like the grand opening to a theatrical production. The layered instrumentation and dramatic flair immediately draw you into the story, preparing you for the epic journey ahead.

“Without a Name”

Artist: Killswitch Engage
Album: Alive or Just Breathing
My Take: Here is another peaceful, tranquil acoustic interlude from a band known for pioneering melodic metalcore. Their sound usually makes Iron Maiden sound like Yanni, but this track showcases their softer side. It’s a minimalist and beautiful piece, providing a moment of calm and reflection that highlights the band’s melodic sensibilities.

“Brushstroke: An Elephant in the Delta Waves”

Artist: Dredg
Album: El Cielo
My Take: This final “Brushstroke” is a mysterious, Eastern-influenced interlude. Dredg uses a variety of unique instruments, possibly a sitar or a steel guitar, to create a sound that transports you to a different place. The exotic melody and atmospheric production make it a truly captivating and unique piece.

“Interlude”

Artist: Eyes Set to Kill
Album: When Silence is Broken the Night is Torn
My Take: I have a soft spot for piano interludes, and this is a great one. The piano has a slightly worn, vintage quality to its sound, which adds a lot of character and charm. The melody is simple but poignant, creating a lovely, melancholic atmosphere. It’s a beautiful exception on a heavy album.

“Elysian”

Artist: Pillar
Album: The Reckoning
My Take: “Elysian” feels grand and cinematic. With its orchestral strings, layered textures, and building intensity, it sounds like it could be part of a film score. It provides a moment of epic, hopeful beauty on an album that is otherwise straightforward hard rock. It’s an ambitious and successful departure for the band.

“Compendium”

Artist: Circa Survive
Album: Blue Sky Noise
My Take: This track is a perfect encapsulation of Circa Survive’s signature sound, just in an instrumental form. It features shimmering, layered guitars, a driving rhythm, and Anthony Green’s ethereal, wordless vocals floating in the background. It’s a dreamy, atmospheric piece that is both beautiful and powerful.

“Departures”

Artist: Damiera
Album: M(US)IC
My Take: Damiera once again delivers an interlude with incredibly interesting and intricate guitar work. The melodies are complex and math-rock inspired, weaving in and out of each other in a way that is both technically impressive and musically engaging. It’s another example of the band’s unique and unpredictable style.

“Clouds”

Artist: Casino Madrid
Album: For Kings and Queens
My Take: This interlude blends techno elements with a darker, more somber metalcore vibe. Unlike the upbeat offerings from other bands, “Clouds” is moodier, with atmospheric synths and the occasional distant scream. It’s a great example of how electronic elements can be used to create a more serious and emotional tone. Be warned, it ends abruptly.

“One”

Artist: Coheed and Cambria
Album: Year of the Black Rainbow
My Take: As the opening to the prequel album in their Amory Wars saga, “One” does an excellent job of setting a dark and ominous tone. It’s an atmospheric piece with swirling synths and a sense of impending doom. While it’s a solid intro, it doesn’t quite reach the epic heights of some of their other album openers, like “Keeping the Blade.”

“The Denouement”

Artist: I am Ghost
Album: Lover’s Requiem
My Take: This album was a theatrical, gothic masterpiece, and “The Denouement” is its perfect concluding statement. It’s a beautiful, melancholic piece featuring strings, piano, and a sense of finality. It brings the album’s dramatic story to a close with grace and emotional weight, showcasing the incredible artistry the band put into this specific record.

“Cannonball Hands (The Tomato Parade)”

Artist: He is Legend
Album: Suck Out the Poison
My Take: This interlude perfectly captures the southern-rock-infused swagger of the album. It features airy, bluesy guitar tones, a thick, groovy bassline, and funky, off-kilter percussion. It’s a short, stylish, and incredibly cool track that adds to the album’s unique and gritty atmosphere.

“Even Bad Men Love Their Mothers”

Artist: Emarosa
Album: Relativity
My Take: Emarosa is known for Jonny Craig’s god-like vocal talent, and while his voice is subdued here, it adds a beautiful texture. This is a soft, gentle piece with clean guitars and a laid-back feel. Craig’s soft, soulful vocalizations float over the top, making it a tender and heartfelt moment on an emotionally charged album.

“InstruMETAL”

Artist: Haste the Day
Album: When Everything Falls
My Take: Another great acoustic interlude from Haste the Day. This track combines a pleasant acoustic melody with “windy” sound effects and a repeated, echoey vocal chant. The result is an atmospheric and slightly haunting piece that provides a great sense of space and contemplation.

“The Power of Resolution”

Artist: Scary Kids Scaring Kids
Album: Scary Kids Scaring Kids
My Take: When they weren’t busy covering Biggie Smalls, Scary Kids Scaring Kids were crafting excellent minimalist interludes. This track features a clean, delayed guitar melody over a simple electronic beat, creating a spacey and introspective atmosphere. It’s a cool, chill moment on a very dynamic album.

“The Jester’s Dance”

Artist: In Flames
Album: The Jester Race
My Take: This track is less of an interlude and more of a short, full-fledged metal instrumental. It perfectly blends clean, melodic guitar harmonies with distorted, powerful riffs. It showcases In Flames’ signature dual-guitar attack and their mastery of melody, making it a classic in the world of melodic death metal.

“Interlude”

Artist: Broadway
Album: Kingdoms
My Take: This is perfect music for contemplation. The atmospheric synths and clean, echoing guitars create a soundscape that feels vast and otherworldly. If you ever found yourself walking on a large glass pathway in space, this would be the ideal background music. It’s beautiful, expansive, and very calming.

“Stir of Echoes”

Artist: Anterior
Album: This Age of Silence
My Take: The more straight-up metal bands seem to excel at creating beautiful acoustic interludes, and Anterior is no exception. “Stir of Echoes” is a solid and well-composed acoustic piece that showcases the band’s instrumental talent in a different light. The melody is memorable and the playing is clean, making for a very enjoyable listen.

“The Serpent”

Artist: Still Remains
Album: The Serpent
My Take: Still Remains were forerunners in blending metalcore with techno and synth elements, and this title track/interlude is a perfect example of their sound. The keyboards truly shine here, creating a dark, danceable, and epic atmosphere that defines the entire album. It’s a powerful and influential piece of synth-infused metal.

“Psalms 150”

Artist: Harp and Lyre
Album: Harp and Lyre
My Take: The song opens with a strange, siren-like sound before a beautiful piano and guitar melody enter. Layered over this is a powerful spoken-word prayer or praise. The combination is awesome-sounding, creating a piece that is both spiritually uplifting and musically engaging. It’s a hidden gem that is definitely worth checking out.

“Traversing Through the Arctic Cold We Search for the Spirit of Yuta”

Artist: Dredg
Album: Leitmotif
My Take: This might be my favorite interlude from Dredg, which is high praise given their extensive catalog of great ones. It features a simple but infectious drum beat, a groovy bass line, and layers of guitar and piano that build a fantastic, chilled-out vibe. It’s a perfect example of how to create a captivating mood with just a few well-chosen elements.

“Music of the Spheres: Requiem Aeternam I”

Artist: Becoming the Archetype
Album: Celestial Completion
My Take: This late addition to the list was well worth it. It’s a fantastic interlude that blends sitar, orchestral elements, and a powerful, cinematic feel. It truly sounds like the “music of the spheres,” creating a sense of cosmic grandeur. It’s a testament to the band’s willingness to experiment and incorporate diverse influences into their metal sound.

“Keeping the Blade”

Artist: Coheed and Cambria
Album: Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV, Vol. 1: Fear Through The Eyes of Madness
My Take: This is the quintessential Coheed and Cambria intro. It has everything: a creepy piano melody, soaring strings, and more epic buildup than you can handle. It perfectly sets the dark, dramatic tone for what is arguably their masterpiece album, leading seamlessly into the explosive opening riff of “Always and Never.” An absolute classic.

There you have it—a deep dive into the art of the album interlude. Hopefully, you’ve discovered some new gems to add to your own study and focus playlists. These short tracks prove that sometimes, the most impactful musical moments come in the smallest packages. If there’s a great interlude we missed, be sure to share it in the comments below.