The band are endearing because their sound is completely unique in a genre that is all too often plagued by revisions of formulas developed in the eighties. While the synth arrangements flicker in the distance with sophisticated disco ambient intent, it is the beats and vocalist Yukimi Nagano that take control of the mix and command our attention. Soulful and undoubtedly eccentric Nagamo is evolving into a leftfield diva to be reckoned with as she questions the relevance of marriage on the title track, singing of a ´white dress and a mistress´ in an age when divorce is practically ubiquitous. As the album moves from the pounding Nightlight to the glitchy electronic of Shuffle A Dream it becomes apparent that that Little Dragon have taken their cue from some of the best underground electronica and recontextualised into dreamy pop and futuristic urban grooves. Ritual Union is a powerfully seductive album that wraps itself around your ears. Expect exciting things when they tour for Parklife.
Little Dragon: Ritual Union
