Glass Animals' How To Be a Human Being isn't just an album; it's a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of everyday life, exploring the complexities and contradictions of the human experience. Released in 2016, this album cemented the band's place in the indie-pop landscape and continues to resonate with listeners worldwide. Its success is no accident; the album's masterful blend of genre-bending soundscapes, introspective lyrics, and captivating storytelling makes it a prime example of successful artistic vision translating into commercial success. This deep dive will explore the album's themes, musicality, and lasting impact.
Thematic Exploration: A Kaleidoscope of Human Experiences
How To Be a Human Being isn't a cohesive narrative; instead, it's a collection of vignettes, each track presenting a different character and scenario. This approach allows for a broad exploration of human nature, touching on themes of:
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Love and Relationships: Tracks like "Youth" and "Season 2 Episode 3" delve into the euphoria and heartbreak of romantic entanglements, capturing the messy, beautiful realities of connection and disconnection. The emotional rollercoaster these songs portray is deeply relatable, contributing to the album's widespread appeal.
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Identity and Self-Discovery: The album grapples with the struggle of self-discovery, exploring the complexities of identity formation. Songs like "Cane Shuga" and "Cocoa Hooves" offer introspective glimpses into the search for meaning and purpose in a chaotic world.
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Social Commentary and Modern Life: Glass Animals subtly weaves social commentary throughout the album, touching on issues of consumerism, social media, and the anxieties of modern life. The subtle references to contemporary society add another layer of depth and make the album feel both timeless and acutely relevant.
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Mental Health and Vulnerability: The album doesn't shy away from portraying the struggles of mental health. The raw emotion and vulnerability expressed throughout the album create a sense of empathy and understanding, making it a powerful and cathartic listening experience for many.
Musical Innovation: A Genre-Bending Masterpiece
Glass Animals' signature sound is immediately recognizable. How To Be a Human Being masterfully blends elements of:
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Psychedelic Pop: The hazy, dreamlike soundscapes are a hallmark of the album's sonic landscape. The use of layered vocals and swirling instrumentation creates a deeply immersive listening experience.
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Indie Pop: The album's strong melodies and catchy hooks are undeniably indie pop at its finest, creating songs that are both sophisticated and accessible.
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Electronic Influences: The incorporation of electronic elements adds a modern edge, enhancing the album's unique sonic texture and giving it a fresh, contemporary feel.
The Lasting Impact: A Cultural Phenomenon
How To Be a Human Being's success is a testament to its artistic merit and cultural relevance. The album:
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Achieved Commercial Success: The album charted internationally, earning critical acclaim and solidifying Glass Animals' status as a major player in the music industry. Its sustained popularity speaks to its lasting impact.
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Cultivated a Dedicated Fanbase: The album has a passionate and engaged fanbase who continue to connect with its themes and music years after its release. This engagement speaks to the album’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners on a personal level.
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Influenced Subsequent Artists: The album's unique sound and artistic vision have undoubtedly influenced subsequent artists, demonstrating its lasting impact on the music landscape.
Conclusion:
Glass Animals' How To Be a Human Being is more than just an album; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with listeners. Its exploration of universal themes, innovative musicality, and lasting impact solidify its position as a modern classic. The album's success is a result of carefully crafted songwriting, masterful production, and a keen understanding of what connects with audiences. It stands as a testament to the power of music to explore the human condition with both artistry and accessibility.
