Carefree, Smooth and Bright
Swedish electronic group Little Dragon, released their seventh studio album, Slugs of Love, on July 7. This enticing album is filled with both funky and relaxed tunes. The easygoing nature of Slugs of Love draws listeners in and leaves them in calm and positive spirits.
The first track, “Amöban,” is crisp, smooth and simply beautiful. Yukimi Nagano’s clear and expressive vocals are enough to give listeners chills. While this track is initially low-key and calming, with soft whistles and reverberant electric guitars, the intensity builds with the entrance of loud, buzzy and dramatic synthesizers. The track ends with a groovy, brassy synth solo which was an unexpected yet nice touch.
The next track, “Frisco,” shifts slightly from the soft and calming feel of the previous track. The overall easygoing vibe is still present, however, this house-inspired tune is much more upbeat and catchy. While starting off mellow yet danceable, the mood of the song changes halfway through, with hard-hitting elements reminiscent of ballroom and disco music.
The title track is perhaps the most poppy and bright-sounding track on this album. The fast-tempo drum patterns and swelling synths tie this tune together and establish the playful and fun ‘80s vibe. This track is undoubtedly perfect for the summer.
“Disco Dangerous” is yet another funky and lighthearted track. Nagano’s soft and kittenish vocals blend flawlessly with the danceable instrumentals heard throughout this tune. The choppy, brassy synth hits and groovy bassline add to the nostalgic feeling this track evokes.
“Stay” featuring JID is a dazzling, bittersweet-sounding tune with smooth and stunning vocal harmonies. The chiptune-like synths and vibrant guitars bring out the wistful vibe of this track. The instrumentals feel like warm sun on your skin. The lyrics are one of the many wonders of this track, as they resemble the honeymoon phase of a relationship. Nagano’s sparkling voice sings, “Lover, I’ll be your medicine if you’ll be mine/If only for a moment/Hopin’ for what love invites/Let’s take our time, let’s take our time now.”
It’s nearly impossible to listen to “Kenneth” without bobbing your head to the insanely catchy bassline. The muffled organ chords and drums contribute to the carefree, sexy nature of this track. The combination of modern and old school sounds makes for an incredibly memorable and funky groove.
The final track on Slugs of Love, “Easy Falling,” is an extremely gorgeous and heartfelt ballad. The quiet acoustic guitar lines and Nagano’s buttery vocals bring forth a great sense of comfort. “Easy Falling” feels like a warm hug; it represents the person who feels like home to you.
Slugs of Love is an undeniably beautiful album that covers all the bases. Little Dragon can do it all when it comes to different genres and grooves. This album is free and easy, colorful and burning with emotion.
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