“RELAXER” is the third alt-J album to grace fans’ ears. The record is filled with eight tracks that showcase the diversity of alt-J’s music style.
The band formed in 2007 in England but debuted their first album “An Awesome Wave” in 2012. Alt-J followed with “This is All Yours” in 2014. Of course “RELAXER” lives up to their previous work and could even be considered better.
“RELAXER” is considered an indie/alternative album, but it stands out above most indie albums. On the track “3WW,” the band features vocalist Ellie Roswell. After listening to alt-J for years, I thought it was a bold but brilliant step to add an additional voice. Roswell’s style combines with alt-J’s to make a fiery first song.
The track “In Cold Blood” is the song I believe to be closest to their roots. The lyrics, “La la la la la la la,” are fairly reminiscent to their song “Fitzpleasure” where they sing “Tra la la.”
“In Cold Blood” is placed second on “RELAXER.” Since it’s close in sound and feeling to their previous work, alt-J fans will feel more comfortable to venture out on to the rest of their new music.
“House of the Rising Sun” is a different take for the group. It starts as a cover but evolves into typical alt-J. Other songs worth mentioning include “Hit Me Like That Snare,” which takes on a sound for rock and personally reminds me of The Black Keys.
“Deadcrush” and “Pleader” are my two favorites on “RELAXER.” The songs are actually very different from each other. “Deadcrush” has a strong, killer bass line that takes you from start to finish. “Pleader” is the last track on the album. Violin is featured and makes it the most grandiose in the album.
Overall, “RELAXER” is a definite 9 out of 10. The instruments are played beautifully, as well as the formation of lyrics. It’s nice to see alt-J somewhat step out of their comfort zone to take on new projects. This album is a preview of what is to come from alt-J. It’s telling us that great things are coming.
Bad JuJu
Listen to alt-J’s “RELAXER” below.