Initiation (Course of Empire album)

Initiation is the second studio album by the American alternative rock band Course of Empire, released in 1994 by Zoo Entertainment. The album marked a shift in the band's sound, incorporating more electronic and industrial elements into their existing hard rock foundation.

Initiation spawned the singles "Infested" and "The Things That Get You By," both of which received significant airplay on alternative radio stations. The album is noted for its dense production, featuring layers of guitars, synths, and sampled sounds. Lyrically, the album explores themes of paranoia, technological alienation, and societal decay.

The album was produced by John Fryer, known for his work with bands such as Nine Inch Nails and Cocteau Twins. Initiation is considered a defining album in Course of Empire's discography and a significant contribution to the mid-1990s alternative rock scene. While not a mainstream commercial success, Initiation gained a cult following and remains appreciated for its innovative sound and dark lyrical content. The album's artwork, featuring abstract imagery, also contributed to its overall aesthetic.