Animals

Animals- Album Overview

Released on November 10, 2017, "Animals" is the debut studio album by the Australian electronic duo Du Tonc, comprised of producer Matt Van Schie and vocalist/producer Tom Wardle. The album was released under the label Nighttime Stories, which has been known for promoting artists who blend electronic sounds with pop sensibilities. Du Tonc carved a niche for themselves in the electronic music scene with their unique sound that fuses disco, house, and indie pop elements. The duo’s journey began in 2015 with the release of their first single, "Every Time," which garnered attention for its infectious groove and catchy hooks. "Animals" further explores their sound, featuring a rich tapestry of synths, pulsating basslines, and layered vocals.

The album consists of 10 tracks, each showcasing the duo's ability to marry melancholy lyrics with uplifting melodies. Notable singles from the album include "Rising" and "We Can Hold On," both of which received significant airplay and helped solidify Du Tonc's place in the contemporary electronic scene. The album's production is polished, reflecting the duo's attention to detail and their desire to create an immersive listening experience. With contributions from various collaborators, including the renowned producer and musician, this album stands as a testament to their artistic vision and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. "Animals" is not merely a collection of songs; it is a sonic journey that invites listeners to explore the complexities of emotion through rhythm and melody.

Review

"Animals" offers an engaging blend of sounds that simultaneously uplift and introspect. The album opens with "Rising," setting a tone that balances buoyancy with reflective lyrics, a hallmark of Du Tonc's style. The production is meticulously crafted, combining elements of disco with contemporary electronic influences, allowing for a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Tracks like "We Can Hold On" showcase the duo's knack for creating earworms, with catchy hooks that linger long after the music has stopped. The lyrics often dance between themes of love and longing, woven seamlessly into the upbeat instrumentals.

Artistically, Du Tonc embraces a vision that champions the dance floor while encouraging emotional exploration. Their ability to create a sonic landscape that feels expansive yet intimate is commendable. However, while the album excels in production and melody, some listeners may find that certain tracks blend into one another, lacking distinctiveness. Overall, "Animals" proves to be a captivating debut, solidifying Du Tonc as a duo to watch in the evolving landscape of electronic music.

Highlights

• Layered production that blends various genres seamlessly.
• Catchy hooks and infectious melodies throughout the album.
• Emotional depth in lyrics that resonate with listeners.

Weak points

• Some tracks may blend together, losing distinctiveness.
• Occasional reliance on familiar electronic tropes.
• Lack of significant variety in tempo across the album.

Overall evaluation

Du Tonc's "Animals" is a well-crafted debut that showcases their unique sound and artistic vision. While it has its weaknesses, the album's strengths in production and melody make it a noteworthy addition to the electronic music landscape.