Animal

British musical duo Lump, featuring the ethereal vocals of Laura Marling and the innovative production of Mike Lindsay, return with Animal, their second studio album. Following their self-titled debut, which garnered critical acclaim in 2018, the pair reunites to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their unique charm.

Formed in the summer of 2016, Lump was born out of a serendipitous meeting at a Neil Young concert. Their collaborative spirit is evident in the album’s creation process, which unfolded between spring and autumn of 2019 in Lindsay’s Margate studio. Each session was a sonic playground where Marling’s emotive melodies intertwined seamlessly with Lindsay’s diverse arrangements, reflecting their mutual admiration and shared artistic vision.

Musically, Animal stands as a robust synthesis of genres, deftly weaving baroque pop, alternative dance, and indie folk into a cohesive soundscape. Critics have described the album as a captivating blend of acoustic warmth and digital texture, evoking an art pop sensibility with subtle electropop undertones. The duo deliberately sidesteps the familiar tropes of their previous works, opting instead for a vintage, late-’70s aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.

The critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with Animal achieving an impressive average score of 82 on Metacritic, indicative of its universal acclaim. Reviewers have praised its innovative approach, highlighting the balance between Marling’s lyrical introspection and Lindsay’s expansive production.

In Animal, Lump not only solidifies their identity as a creative force but also invites listeners into a rich tapestry of sound that rewards repeated exploration. With this album, they prove that collaboration can lead to extraordinary new heights, showcasing the potential for artistic growth while remaining rooted in their distinctive style.