AlunaGeorge gained their public platform on Disclosure’s ‘White Noise’ creating a synth storm on Radio 1, echoing across the UK population. Since then, further releases ‘Attracting Flies’ and ‘Lost and Found’ have caused AlunaGeorge animation amongst fans awaiting the arrival of their debut album Body Music. Disclosure left pretty big shoes to fill with their musical masterpiece “Settle” which exceeded critical expectations, and with 90s garage making a comeback and house music continuing its reign this year, similar sounds were anticipated from the techy-twosome.
Even though the duo are clearly trying to present all their abilities on one musical platter, some songs fall flat. ‘You Know You Like It’ exudes bass-pounding promise, however, ‘Kaleidoscope Love’ and ‘Best Be Believing’ drop off the radar. George Reid carefully crafts catchy hooks:Your drums, we’re drumming, your drums, or long-lasting lyrics, All you wanted was a lost and found, should’ve got me on the rebound, should’ve got me on the rebound, which stay with you even after one listen. ‘Superstar’ and ‘Your Drums, Your Love’ start punchy and hint potential, however, the rest of the song fails to create much of an impact as the verses and choruses seem disjointed.
‘Outlines,’ however, starts us off with light beats, sultry tones and vocals; all the ingredients for a modern-day RnB ballad. I might even say AlunaGeorge’s down-tempo tracks are the better selection from the track list. ‘Diver’ and ‘Friends to Lovers’ continue this theme later in the album, showcasing Aluna Francis’ sweet-sounding symphonies, complemented by the mellow musical accompaniment from George Reid.
It’s incredibly difficult for an artist to produce a record in and amongst so much hype, especially with comparisons left, right and centre. So, I’m not sure whether the album is a “grower” or if AlunaGeorge are still growing … I’m yet to find out.
Top Three Tracks: You Know You Like It, Friends to Lovers, Outlines.
