Artist: Toro Y Moi
Release: Anything In Return (Album)
Release Date: Out Now
Chazwick Bundick, otherwise known as Toro Y Moi is back with his third full length album. Since the release of his debut ‘Causes of This’ in 2012, aptly named because of his large input into the creation of a new musical movement called ‘chillwave’, he has been trying his best to steer away from the genre. ‘Anything in Return’ is the furthest from it yet but impresses in a different way.
‘Harm in Change’ kicks off with atmospheric pianos and echoing vocals, evolving into an up tempo number which invades all your musical senses. This theme continues through a large chunk of the album, using unusual, spacious sounds to create something rather out of this world. ‘Cola’ is a definite stand out track; with a poppy vibe and melodic waves to set off Toro Y Moi’s contemplating voice. ‘Cake’ brings out more dance elements than any other track with a hard hitting chorus which sticks in your mind. He sings ‘She knows I’m gonna be her boy forever’ to a catchy electro-pop like backing which will linger in your mind for the rest of the day.
If you lie back and listen to this album with your eyes closed you could easily place yourself by a deserted beach at sunset. Think of a place somewhere in between Friendly Fires and Memory Tapes and you pretty much have Toro Y Moi. On the surface the simple song titles suggest an obvious album. On further inspection you will find a whole new world of exciting sounds and thought provoking harmonies. If you’re looking for an album which gives you something fresh, you’ve come to the right place.
6/10
Reviewer: Claire Rollins
