Merriweather Post Pavilion

by Animal Collective

Already hailed as a potential 'album-of-year' by many, Merriweather Post Pavilion has certainly generated a lot of hype since the turn of the year. It's easy to see why; Animal Collective's heady mix of psychedelic samples, dreamy guitars and dizzying vocals is an enticing proposition.

While comparable to current US indie bands, (think Deerhunter, Dodos), Merriweather Post Pavilion also pays homage to 70s dreamers such as Pink Floyd, and the hazy 90s shoe-gaze of My Bloody Valentine. Where Animal Collective really break with tradition, is through heavy basslines and beats, so make sure you turn up the bass!

Whilst it may have garnered high praise from the press, Merriweather Post Pavilion is not for the faint-hearted. To a first-time listener, the long, often bizarre songs and dizzying array of obscure textures can be overwhelming. Given several listens though, the Collective's warm, fun album really starts to make sense.

Songs like 'Summertime Clothes' cannot fail to charm, with a simple refrain of 'I want to walk around with you' perfectly capturing the sound of countryside adventure. Couple this charm with the intense ecstasy of Arcade Fire, pump it full of fun and celebration, and you have the sonic wonderland that is Merriweather Post Pavilion.