There's something about a poor rating on Pitchfork that makes me want to listen to an album from cover to cover and be proven otherwise. Little Dragon's "Season High" received a 5.6 after its April 14 release.
A number, especially one with a decimal point, seems like an inequitable way to label an album, considering it depends on the ear of just one listener. I digress, though, as it is a critic's job to critique. I feel it is my job to celebrate, which is seamless with Little Dragon's new album that starts with a buoyant and cheerful song, ironically, titled "Celebrate."
The Swedish group, formed over twenty years ago, consists of Yukimi Nagano on vocals, Erik Bodin on drums, Frerik Källgren Wallin on bass, and Håkan Wirenstrand on the keys. The four-piece crew appeared to have some fun with their fifth studio album, a follow-up to their 2014 Grammy-nominated "Namuba Rubberband."
Throughout their ten-track "Season High," the Swedes stick to their original down-tempo sound and late Michael Jackson-y vocals while blending it with bouts of sexy jazz and synth. They take a few steps out of their comfort zone and make this new music dynamic sound effortless.
They take us to a warm place in mellow tracks like "High" and "Butterflies," and then make natural shifts toward upbeat and dance-y with "Should I" and "Strobe Light." It's a tastefully dreamy balance.
Listen to ear enriching tracks from "Season High" on WGRE 91.5.