By Emma Lautanen
Staff Writer
Other than a few salvaging songs, Alt-J’s new album, “This is All Yours,” would be better off called “You Can Have it Back.”
While there are a few notable tracks, “This is All Yours,” as a whole, is a disappointment. While Alt-J does somewhat embrace its old sound, which relies heavily on electronic synths, it fails to be as enticingly catchy as their previous work. The only tracks that succeed in bringing back the band’s tried-and-true rhythm are unfortunately not enough to save the album from the forgettable, newly created sound Alt-J focuses on throughout the album.
The indie-rock band, which formed in 2007, currently consists of lead vocalist Joe Newman, keyboardist Gus Unger-Hamilton and drummer Thom Green. They began recording on Garageband as college students. Since the band recorded in college dorms, it was forced to be quieter than most bands, cutting bass and drums from its music.
Alt-J released its first album, “An Awesome Wave,” in 2012, which received rave reviews for its more minimalist-esque sound, bringing the band to the spot light. The group is largely known for its hypnotic synthesis sound and Newman’s enticing vocals, a distinctive combination that is still unprecedented in the modern music industry.
“This is All Yours” has a few highlights. The single ‘Left Hand Free,’ for example, is catchy and upbeat, keeping the style that made Alt-J popular. The track ‘Bloodflood part II’ also carries over a familiar tune from the band’s famous debut album. Another standout, notable for its background ambiance, is ‘Hunger of the Pine.’ The track successfully weaves together complex lyrics and intricate beats and even splices in audio from Miley Cyrus’ hit ‘4×4.’
Despite these minimal successes, throughout the album it feels as if the band is trying to rediscover its style. “Garden of England” sounds classical and Renaissance-esque, which feels entirely out of place compared to the modern style the band previously pursued. Even worse is ‘Pusher,’ in which the sparse instrumentals make the track flat and bare, lacking the sort of passion or creativity that is generally ever-present in the band’s work.
Certain songs feel uninspired, while others contain trace reminders of the talent the band demonstrated in 2012. Overall, “This is All Yours” leaves a sign for the band to stop treading new ground and replicate its tried-and-true rhythm and vocals. While some tracks stand strong on their own, the album’s overwhelming mediocrity hinders its few charms.
“This is All Yours” was released Sept. 22 and is now available for $8.99 digitally and in retail.
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