Animal Collective :: Merriweather Post Pavilion

As a person who loves music and all of its many forms, I enjoy seeing musicians push their limits and explore the sounds with which they play in. The new Animal Collective release, Merriweather Post Pavilion, is a prime example of this melodic carnival. As in past releases, this quartet of avant garde musicians once again create a world all to its own, experimenting with a range of diverse sounds and beats. The difference in this album from their previous efforts however is the sheer “catchiness” of the album as a whole. It seamlessly flows from beginning to end, taking on an almost organic aesthetic. From the thumping “My Girls” with its hand claps and carefree vocals to the dreamlike quality of “Bluish” and its gorgeous use of keyboards and synthesizers. “Guys Eyes” takes on a tribal feel, while “Lion In A Coma” makes prominent use of the didgeridoo, the infamous instrument of the Aboriginal tribes of Australia. Do yourself a favor and be sure to check this one out. 2009 may have just begun, but I have no doubt that this album will most certainly be on many “best of ” list’s by year’s end.