Litte Dragon breathes fire

If Prince wrote the future of electronica, Little Dragon’s newest album, “Ritual Union” would be the manifesto.

The band’s third album combines soul, R&B, rock, funk, synth-pop and electronica to produce a grandiose collection of ten songs that transition smoothly between each aggressively poppy track.

The album is stronger and more dynamic than their previous two.
With no use of guitar, the songs are purely composition of snare, synthesizer and thumping bass accompanied by soulful vocals.

Listening to the album provokes involuntary head nods and toe taps.
Ritual Union has a modern, majestic sound to it that is bold and unlike anything else out there.

Songs like “Ritual Union” and “Please Turn” exemplify the brilliant, seductive R&B influenced cries of lead singer Nagano set against dark instrumentation.

Although the album is overall a strong effort, the second half loses some momentum.
By the time you get to “Crystalfilm,” it is clear the hooks are weaker and the sound is less fluid.

All-in-all, though, the album is unique, futuristic and sexy.

The evolution of Little Dragon’s newest album offers plenty to those who love the dance floor.

By Alaina Klene