Alt J - NEW Singles Review

ALT J 3 New Singles

Released: Out Now     Genre: Alternative Rock     Available: iTunes, Spotify

Some indications of the much anticipated second album of English Alternative rock (now trio)  Alt-J were revealed earlier this month in the form of 3 new singles 'Hunger of the Pine', 'Left Hand Free' and 'Every Other Freckle'. Following the release of their highly successful debut album An Awesome Wave (released May 2012) the band has gone world wide. Reaching #1 in the UK Indie Album Chart, #9 in the Australian Albums Chart and #18 in the US Alternative Albums Chart - Alt-J were certified platinum and have sold over 40,000 copies.

Alt-J (L-R) Thom Green, Gus Unger-Hamilton, Joe Newman

Hunger of the Pine
This song appears to be a lot more commercial than their previous music despite having the familiar electronic feel and the echoey vocals of Newman. It starts off slow and builds to a beat (same percussion found in almost every Alt-J song) and introduces an entirely new element to their sound - a female voice. This voice unusually belongs to Miley Cyrus (the band integrating the lyrics "I'm the female rebel" from her song '4x4' in an almost remixed manner). The usual harmonies can be found within the song as well as a new collection of instruments.

Left Hand Free
On a very different note, Alt-J have managed to create a Jazzy, 1960's feel that still somehow manages to retain the original Alt-J-esque sound. This song has a very distinctive up-beat vibe in comparison to the generally depressive resonance their other songs formulate. The lyrics (although true to band's style) are unclear with what appears to be a minor distortion on Newman's voice. Additionally, subtle guitar riffs and a creative keyboard solo add an extra twist. I can envisage this song being played in an open top convertible - perhaps a deliberate intention as the title of the song itself is 'Left Hand Free'? All in all, it's a feel-good song (never thought I'd say that about Alt-J) and will leave you knee-tapping and finger-clicking.

Every Other Freckle
Their most recent single seems to be somewhat heavier than previous material with a more dense bass line. It is good to hear the return of absurd yet ingeniously creative lyrics with "I want to share your mouthful" and "turn you inside out and lick you like a crisp packet". The songs mournful sound seems reminiscent of Fleet Foxes however the off beat percussion and backing add lib's reassert the original Alt-J element; the band fully cementing their own distinctive style.

It would seem that Alt-J are definitely heading in a new direction but not losing sight of their own unique sound - a positive progression with no inkling of 'second album syndrome'. Thus, leaving us wanting This is All Your's (release date: 22 September 2014) to come sooner!