Animal Collective is a four-piece band out of Baltimore, Maryland with influences in every corner of the musical universe. The band has been putting out dreamy, hallucinogenic music together since they were high school friends, but not always under the alias of Animal Collective, but also in group and solo efforts. Their music has remained ever changing, ranging from ambient acoustic medleys to lush electronic pop, but consistant in their own psychedelic meanderings.
Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished and Danse Manatee were their first records released, but not under the name Animal Collective. Only a limited amount were pressed until their re-release in 2002 and 2003. Filled with any sound you can imagine (and some you can't), it appears to be music made out of just about anything. Hollindaggin follows this trend with Campfire Songs, an acoustic E.P. recorded in one sitting, using the sound of a surrounding forest and campfire to give the record more organic feel. Feels was a breakthrough album that reached fast success, showcasing their first establishable blend of psychedelic pop and folk.
Strawberry Jam and their E.P. Water Curses, are their latest releases and proves, once and for all, they are here to stay. Songs like "Peacebone" and "Cuckoo Cuckoo" have a catchy, sap-like ability to get stuck in your head for days, while other, slower songs like "Street Flash" from Water Curses put youin a trance, and weave melodies that seem like they always belonged together.
While AC isn't on everyones favorite list, they are quickly gaining a following that likely insures they are sticking around. Below is a live video for one of their newest songs, called "Brother Sport", that will likely be on their yet-to-be-named album. Feel free to dance.
Travis
My Trusted MOGs
I saw them in September. One of the best shows I have seen in a long time.