Sing along with 'Sung Tongs'

The hypnotizing Animal Collective release Sung Tongs can provide an almost perfect soundtrack to a summer day. Like a cool breeze on a hot afternoon, you just can't help taking it in and appreciating the freshness it can represent. The natural guitar strumming and free flow of vocals do not feel forced or inappropriate at any point on the album, giving it a dreamlike balance. \nThe album opens with "Leaf House," which provides a trippy bungalow drum sing-along. The next track, "Who Could Win a Rabbit," is the catchiest of the record, despite the rhythmic oddity. The album then takes a turn into a trance-like stance with wind chimes, soft, chanting voices and the pitter-patter of drums. The only song that took me out of this dream is "We Tigers," which is louder, has a stronger drum beat and ritual chanting; lyrically speaking the words get darker and include whispered words like "vampires" and "poltergeist." Afterward, we return to the wispy aspects of Sung Tongs with "Mouth Wooed Her," and the rest of the album rounds out leaving you fulfilled.\nThe elusive names donned by Animal Collective members, Panda Bear and Avey Tare, set the stage for mystery, and much like other experimental rock artists' work, the album is mystifying. However, it could just provide the perfect company on a lazy, sunny day. I recommend taking it in and enjoying it to its full capacity.