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Wild Beasts // two dancers

I like Wild Beasts and I see their career as a parallel of the evolution of art. I'll explain. In my head each album represents a point of the history of art. When I put their first album on and close my eyes, - I don't know why but - the imagery I get in my head is medieval. The kings and the castles and the knights with their swords and the wars and the horses. The dirty streets, the horror, the bloodshed, the suffering and the rawness. It has nothing to do with the music itself but it's where that album takes me to.

"Two Dancers" takes me to a total different age. I close my eyes and it takes me to the Renaissance period. Again, don't ask me why. It's just the feeling I have. It's like the songs sound as if they were crafted in the 1500s and then updated brilliantly with bass and synths. Once again, lyrically, nothing explicitly is related to that particular period of art, but it's the feeling I get when I listen to this album. It's the beauty, the perfection, and especially a big break from the past. This album is totally different to the previous one. More sexy and intelligent. More layered and detailed.

So, I close my eyes and I listen to "Two Dancers". I find each song is an important piece of a journey into the depths of life itself. The album exudes a unique blend of indie rock and art pop, proving that the band is able to craft complex and accessible melodies.

During the recording of "Two Dancers," Wild Beasts faced a series of challenges and triumphs that shaped the album's sound and atmosphere. Recorded in various locations including Wales and London, the band collaborated with producer Richard Formby, known for his work with bands like Spacemen 3 and Ghostpoet. This allowed for experimentation with different environments and diverse sonic textures, resulting in a grandiose and dynamic production.

Moreover, the connections between Wild Beasts and other acts or artists further enrich the album's narrative. Collaborations and shared experiences with like-minded musicians fueled their creative energy, fostering a vibrant community within the indie music scene.

The album's themes of desire, intimacy, and the complexities of human relationships are woven throughout its lyrics, painting vivid portraits of love and longing. Songs like "Hooting & Howling" and "All the King's Men" capture the exhilaration and intensity of passion, while tracks like "Two Dancers (i)" and "This Is Our Lot" delve into the darker, more introspective aspects of love. Wild Beasts' evocative lyrics, combined with their distinctive vocal delivery, invite us all to explore the depths of their own emotions and experiences.

In essence, "Two Dancers" is more than just an album. It's an absolute work of art in itself. A testament to the boundless creativity and musical prowess of the band. Lyrically, the band managed to achieve a glorious way of combining words to create perfect songs. Sonically, the melodies are grand and triumphant. This record stands as a true masterpiece in the indie-rock genre.

[somuchmuzzk]

The Knife // silent shout

"Silent Shout" by The Knife is a brilliant and original collection of electronic songs. It is a product of the unique creative vision of the Swedish sibling duo, Karin and Olof Dreijer. Known for their enigmatic personas and boundary-pushing sound, The Knife has always been synonymous with innovation and artistic experimentation.

During the recording of "Silent Shout," they secluded themselves in a remote cabin deep in the wilderness. This allowed them to immerse fully in the creative process, free from distractions and outside influences. It's said that the eerie tranquility of their surroundings seeped into the music, infusing it with an otherworldly quality that is present throughout the album.

The recording sessions were reportedly intense, with the duo exploring different types of sounds and techniques. They incorporated unconventional instruments in digital and electronic ways that combined with Karin's vocals resulted in songs that sound both daring and strange.

The imagery surrounding "Silent Shout," from its cryptic album artwork to its mesmerizing music videos, further enhances the overall experience, inviting listeners into their dark and twisted world.

The most amazing thing in this record is the original and brilliant composition of different layers: the sounds, the effects, the synths, the awkwardness and the vulnerability with the enchanting voices. It's a fantastic digital music patchwork for an alternative dancefloor.

[somuchmuzzk]

Portishead // dummy

Released in 1994, this is the best example of a timeless record. I am sure if "Dummy" was released today it would still be one of the favorites to make it Album of The Year.

From its haunting melodies to its innovative production, the album remains a quintessential example of trip-hop.

Beth Gibbons' enigmatic voice floats atop the intricate arrangements crafted by Geoff Barrow and Adrian Utley, creating in the songs an ethereal and intimate atmosphere.

It's a very elegant and discreet album, with a moody and cinematic instrumentation and evocative lyrics. Each song feels a part of a puzzle.

The production is flawless. Even for contemporary standards. Barrow and Utley expertly blend live instrumentation with sampled beats and electronic textures, creating a gritty sonic landscape. The use of vinyl crackle, vinyl samples, and vintage recording techniques gives a timeless appeal to the album.

From the trip-hop anthem "Numb" to the haunting ballad "Roads", there are no flawed tracks in this album. More than an album, "Dummy" is an experience. It takes us out of this world.

Over two decades since its release, "Dummy" remains a seminal work in the world of electronic music, influencing countless artists and earning its place as a classic in the annals of music history.

[somuchmuzzk]

Primal Scream // xtrmntr

"XTRMNTR" by Primal Scream is often hailed as a groundbreaking album that mixes rock, electronic and experimental sounds. Released in 2000, it arrived at a crucial juncture in music history, encapsulating the chaos and uncertainty of the new millennium. Now, 2030 is getting closer and closer. Hardcore dystopian reality can be a reality.

"Kill All Hippies" thrusts listeners into a sonic maelstrom, where gritty guitars collide with pulsating rhythms and electronic embellishments. This fusion of genres creates a sense of urgency and rebellion that starts with this track and runs throughout the record.

"Swastika Eyes" exemplifies Primal Scream's willingness to confront controversial themes head-on with provocative lyrics and relentless beats. The song challenges societal norms and dares listeners to question authority.

"Accelerator" and "Medication" masterly blend rock and electronica, creating a sound that feels futuristic and authoritarian. Meanwhile, tracks like "Blood Money" and "Exterminator" delve into darker territories, exploring themes of corruption and greed.

At its core, "XTRMNTR" is an album fueled by political and social unrest. It's a rallying cry against complacency and a call to arms for those who refuse to be silenced. Through its eclectic mix of sounds and fearless lyrics, Primal Scream deliver a powerful statement.

"XTRMNTR" pushed the boundaries of rock music and cemented Primal Scream's status as innovators in the genre. With its raw energy and uncompromising attitude, it continues to inspire and provoke listeners. This album could have been the soundtrack of "Children of Men", one of the best movies ever made.

[somuchmuzzk]

Belly // star

Belly’s album “Star” is an absolute gem of 90s alternative rock. From the opening track “Someone To Die For” to the closing notes of “Stay,” this album confirms the band’s talent for crafting catchy, guitar-driven melodies that stick in your imagination and in your heart.

Lead singer Tanya Donelly’s vocals range from sweetly melodic to raw and edgy and her lyrics are beautiful, crafted with a poetic sensibility that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

If I had to chose one thing about the album, I would say “the lyrics”. It's one of the records that manages to take me to imaginary places at every single listen. It's absolutely magical.

But it’s not just Donelly’s words and voice that make “Star” such a great album. The rest of the band - bassist Gail Greenwood, drummer Chris Gorman, and guitarist Tom Gorman - bring their own unique parts to the table, creating magnificent melodies.

The album’s standout tracks include the grungy “Feed The Tree,” with its infectious chorus and driving guitar riff, as well as the hauntingly beautiful “Stay,” which features Donelly’s vocals at their most ethereal. There are no weak tracks on “Star” - each song is a gem.

Overall, “Star” is a must-listen for any fan of 90s alternative rock, or anyone who appreciates great songwriting and musicianship. It’s an album that stands the test of time, and one that I find myself returning to again and again. I highly recommend it.

[somuchmuzzk]

Foals // antidotes

I see in Antidotes, the debut album by British indie rock band Foals, an ode to youth. Released in 2008, it has the band’s initial signature. A blend of math rock, post-punk, and dance-punk, that has resulted in an original and captivating sound. From the second album onwards, Foals' sound is different, more mature.

The album kicks off with “The French Open”, a song that progressively introduces the sound of the band. Track after track they deliver some of their pure tracks such as “Balloons”, “Electric Bloom” and “Cassius”, with danceable rhythms and catchy hooks. “Two Steps” and “Red Socks Pugie” show us the band’s technical proficiency and the band's musical versatility.

“Olympic Airways” and “Electric Bloom” are two of the album’s most danceable tracks, with catchy hooks and an upbeat tempo while “Balloons” and “Big Big Love (Fig. 2)” show the band’s softer and introspective side.

From day one I am a fan of this Oxford band. Every time I think about their career, their albums and songs, their vibe and their commitment, I feel they are the last proper rock band in this kind of contemporary dystopian music world. This record has a totally different style compared to their following releases and I absolutely love its depth, its truth and its flaws.

Antidotes is an impressive debut that established Foals as a force to be reckoned with in the indie rock scene. With its innovative sound this album is a must-listen for any fan of the genre and it remains one of my favourites to this day.

[somuchmuzzk]

New Order // technique

“Technique”, released in 1989, is the fifth studio album by the English rock band New Order. It was the band’s first record to be produced by Stephen Hague and their last to feature their original lineup before the departure of bassist Peter Hook.

“Technique” was well-received by critics and fans alike and is often considered one of New Order’s best albums. It features a mix of electronic and rock elements, with upbeat dance tracks like “Fine Time” and “Round & Round” as well as more introspective tracks like “Dream Attack” and “Vanishing Point”. The album’s sound has been described as “bright and optimistic” and “vibrant and life-affirming”.

Overall, “Technique” is widely regarded as a classic of 1980s music and a standout album in New Order’s discography. If you enjoy electronic music or rock music with electronic elements, it’s definitely worth giving a listen. A record for all the people that like consistent albums. This is the meaning of consistency.

[somuchmuzzk]

Kate Bush // hounds of love

"Hounds of Love" is the fifth studio album by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush, and it was released in 1985. The record is widely regarded as a landmark in Bush's career and has been praised for its ambitious musical scope, emotive lyrics, and innovative use of studio technology.

It's divided into two parts: "Hounds of Love" and "The Ninth Wave". The first part contains some of Bush's most popular and well-known songs including "Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)", "Cloudbusting", and "The Big Sky". These tracks feature a diverse range of musical styles, including electronic, rock and folk. Kate's signature is present on layered vocals, intricate instrumentation and poetic lyrics.

"The Ninth Wave", or the side B of the record, is a conceptual suite of songs. It's supposed to tell the story of a woman lost at sea, who is forced to confront her fears and memories as she drifts through the darkness. This second half of the album is more experimental and atmospheric, with haunting soundscapes, sparse instrumentation, and a sense of unease that permeates throughout.

This is considered a masterpiece of 1980s art-pop and it remains one of Kate Bush's most acclaimed works. It has influenced countless musicians and continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth, musical innovation, and enduring appeal.

This is the best album ever made. The end.