Two Londoners, known only by J and T, exploded into fame in the UK when they released some impressively-choreographed videos of men in track suits rollerblading around an abandoned industrial area. The undeniable catchiness of those tracks (which have been included in their new full-length album) were a fair glimpse into the way the duo would start pushing funk boundaries. Now under the name Jungle and with several more members, the group has attempted to take the traditional American soul aesthetic into the modern realm with their self-titled record, released last week on XL.
In many ways, they succeeded. Jungle has managed to become an earworm to a nation of indie-rock lovers that have long ago sworn off disco as tacky. By bringing together progressive electronic techniques and ’70s- and ’80s-style horn and synth influences, it’s a testament to the viability of an inclusive and non-lineal musical future. On the other hand, the album leaves a lot to be desired. It’s got a sturdy frame, but somewhere the siding has fallen off—the album could easily be half the length it is. With a steadily high vocal register and a swaying beat throughout, the lack of diversity in the tracks can wear on the listener. Jungle’s debut album needs some work, but it points to a future of change in the genres and in the force of the UK scene. And really, who wouldn’t want to be this kid?
Jungle