Mythmaker is the tenth studio album by Canadian electro-industrial band Skinny Puppy. It was released on January 30, 2007 through Synthetic Symphony. The band members cEvin Key and Nivek Ogre have described the album as more melodic and less complex than their previous works, but at the same time heavier and more aggressive.
The inception of the album stemmed from a desire of the band members to revisit sounds and styles that they had previously explored in their earlier works, but with a fresh and contemporary spin. This resulted in an album that traverses through dark, evocative soundscapes, while incorporating elements of electro, industrial, and even breakbeat.
The theme of Mythmaker delves into the exploration of modern myths, paranoia, and the deceitful tactics employed in the contemporary world, dyed with threads of fantastical and mythical elements. Some of these themes reflect Ogre's dissatisfaction with the U.S. government at that time. Critical response to the album was generally positive, with the sound design and thematic content being widely praised.
The songs "Politikil" and "Pedafly" were released as the album's singles. A song that widely got recognized by fans and critics alike is "Pasturn," with its haunting melodies and wide-ranging use of instrumentals.
This album also marked the first time where Ogre and Key worked collaboratively in a studio since the 1990 album, "Too Dark Park," signaling a reconnection in their unique style of creating music. Their long-time associate and producer, Mark Walk, also contributed significantly to the album. Despite the album's experimental nature, Mythmaker adheres quite faithfully to the signature style and established identity of Skinny Puppy, making it a significant addition to their discography.
