If you weren't around for their rise in popularity in 2014, maybe you recognize their music from the hit show "Outer Banks". The intro features the song "Left Hand Free" from Alt-J's album "This Is All Yours". After the release of the show, Alt-J's fame skyrocketed on TikTok with over 50k uses of the original song and thousands more of the show's opening song, you could say Alt-J experienced the second rise in fame.
After 4 years, Alt-J has released a new album, however, and I am listening to every song so you don't have to (unless you want to)!
Starting with track 1, "Bane", with a cool guitar, reminding me of some good steely dan throwbacks. The vocals are all-encompassing and feel a little magical mystery tour esque. Overall, great song.
Track 2 and also their most listened to song so far on the album, "U&ME", has a more similar sound to their past work and shows off their raspy indie vocals. About halfway through the song, there's a guitar solo that begins to build back up to vocals which gives it a cool flare. My final thoughts on this song, however, are that I am not sure the 13 more million streams are worth the hype as I felt other songs were just as good.
My favorite track, track 6, "Get Better", not only has soothing and clear vocals but lyrics that give you a comforting feel. I feel as almost if I am listening to a modern-day version of "Blackbird" with lyrics like "Get better, my darling, I hope you will get better...".
Overall, the album feels similar and yet different than anything you have heard before. I think Alt-J did a great job at sticking to their signature sound while bringing in new techniques such as choir supporting vocals. If you enjoy a classic sound with mainstream indie techniques, then this album is for you.
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