Instead, it is the lack of upbeat tunes that makes the album such a standout. I have a great appreciation for unconventional singing voices, and Bayley’s is one that I adore it is milky and gorgeously bridled.Īll eleven “Zaba” tracks are performed at lullaby tempos: nothing is much faster than “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” However slow the songs may be, they are far from boring. It is his unique vocal quality that makes the minimalism of “Zaba” so intriguing.
Bayley’s voice is not modified, but instead shows off its naturally breathy and enchanting quality. David Bayley’s vocals are the most minimalist aspect of the album, as his voice ghosts effortlessly over each track. “Zaba” is a piece of minimalist music at heart, making its charm all the more impressive. It is very rare that an entire album can penetrate the mind and set a mood, but “Zaba” does precisely that.
The album has also garnered praise due to its dream pop sound songs are hazy, sensual, and artful. “Zaba” even takes things a step further with the inclusion of tropical drums as each song paints a picture of a jungle through music. The amalgamation of these unlikely genres gives Glass Animals a sound all their own “Zaba” is the album in which this unique sound is most prevalent. Glass Animals’ musical style has always compelled me: the balanced influence of both psychedelic rock and R&B. Lead singer, David Bayley, recorded the sounds of birds chirping and other natural sounds outside of his house and decided to incorporate these into the songs on “Zaba.” This concept manifests itself not just in lyrics, but also through the integration of animal sounds throughout the album. Rather, “Zaba” explores the exotic parts of nature. All three albums by Glass Animals are concept albums, but “Zaba” provides the most interesting concept, since it does not revolve around human stories. The album is best known for blessing the alternative music world with the song “Gooey.” All 11 tracks on “Zaba” are smooth and create a cohesive concept album. Released in 2014, “Zaba” marked the debut of Glass Animals as kingpins in the alternative scene. “Zaba,” their first album, is their true masterpiece. As much as I love Glass Animals, the album that has become TikTok famous is their least impressive release. This year, the band’s newest release blew up on TikTok, but I want to discuss their first album instead. How have I not written about Glass Animals yet!? Since 2017, I have been in love with the silky, enticing music of British foursome Glass Animals.