Alt-J - Matilda / Fitzpleasure

One of the most peculiarly prominent parts of the Alt-J sound is the unhinged vocal delivery that veers from tunefulness to a slight snarl between each part of the more straightforward ‘Maltida’.

Despite their music swaying towards seriousness, ‘Fitzpleasure’ is a truly playful track from Alt-J. Layered chants and bass throbs rub shoulders with tender moments throughout. Neither track seems to settle down long enough for the listener to settle down. They keep the ears guessing as to what exactly is going on.

Fans of Everything Everything’s tendency to throw various ideas together to make a song will no doubt appreciate Alt-J’s similar approach to splicing jarring rhythms and melodies. It’s encouraging to hear a band so full of ideas.

This single is a good indication as any to what their sound is, but where will they take it from here? Hurray for Alt-J, that’s what I say.