Jungle’s self titled album, released back in July 2014, reflects the exact ‘kaleidoscopic modern soul’ that the UK music scene has been missing out on in recent years. The mysterious Shepherds Bush duo, J and T, founded, created and produced the band’s works as well as performing them on tour with their five other (equally cool) band mates at every other festival since the release.
Shrouded in mystery Jungle appeared from the cloudy shadows of the on-line world where they were instantly picked up by XL records. Keeping us in the dark to who they actually were, J and T released a stream of music videos with ‘Platoon’ and ‘The Heat’ featuring a break dancing kid and a slick sliding roller-skating pair. These videos captured the attention of thousands of ‘busy’ internet users as their clever internet marketing ploy worked it’s way up the industry impressing all the right people.
Jungle’s falsetto vocals, whirring synth and florid percussion creates the brilliant and unique sound that they have flaunted consistently throughout the album. Tracks such as ‘Julia’ and ‘Time’ showcase Jungle’s ability to create funky pop songs in a new and exciting way. These tracks are matched by the equally glossy yet lucid and ambient ‘Drops’ and ‘Lucky I Got What I Want’.
Melodically Jungle are faultless. The striking horn riff in single ‘Busy Earnin’ gives the track a certain ‘oomph’ that could not be produced in any other way. With catchy lyrics and sumptuous harmonies, Jungle seemed to have hit the nail on the head when it comes to creating great pop songs.
‘Jungle’ consists of only great songs that pour vibrancy into your day. Reflecting the complexity of urban life this album manages to capture summery vibes as well as a deeper hidden meaning behind the sunny rays of excellence. A heartbreak, perhaps?
Nevertheless this album is a must get. One that I will recommend to anyone.
Words by Joe Bardsley