Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Defining moment for indie visionaries?

Since 2004‘s breakthrough Sung Tongs, Animal Collective have steadily become one of this generation’s most influential bands. Each release has seen their sound evolve, while never sounding like anybody but themselves. Their last record, 2007’s Strawberry Jam, saw the Collective embrace a hectic, joyful sound based on electronic repetition that made for some thrilling live shows.

Merriweather Post Pavilion feels like their biggest step forward yet. It’s a collection of songs so full of imagination, exuberance and beauty that, at times, it seems as if other bands of their ilk may as well give up. MPP embraces the dynamics and textures of dance music like never before, yet it feels like a wholly natural development. The record is awash with layers of synthesisers and harmonies, creating moments of blissed-out beauty (Bluish, No More Runnin) as well as of carnival-esque pop abandon (Brother Sport, My Girls).

By some way AC’s most consistent and accessible collection to date; encouragingly, they’ve achieved this without losing their edge. If anything, they sound more awestruck with the possibilities of life, love and music than ever before. A rare treat to brighten up the winter months, it's difficult to think of a more inventive, brilliant record having been released for some time.

Domino | WIGCD 216

Reviewed by Jamie Atkins
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