Eclectic percussion and echoing vocals with added in synth/electronic waves--Atoms for Peace's album "Amok" is a dreamy, minimalist world in music.
With Radiohead's Thom Yorke as lead singer, his unmistakable, soaring voice makes for a recognizable tone floating at the surface of each song. Other members, like Red Hot Chili Pepper's bassist Flea, Nigel Godrich on keyboards, and Beck's Joey Waronker help to make this a winning combo of master musicians. The Los Angeles electronic/experimental group was created in 2009 with initially no actual name, going instead by "??????". Having reached a point of distinct style and sound, the band has taken on the name Atoms for Peace and have shown to hold up a unified quality to their songs.
Interesting, ingenious rhythms and ghostly backgrounds create an unexpected juxtaposition that gives this album a complexity that requires a couple listens to really get it. A few run-throughs and you start to really appreciate each of the segments that comprise each song like the sticks of a popsicle tower. Amok is definitely the kind of album you want you take the time to get to know. Buy it now off iTunes and take it out for coffee, soak it in, and reflect upon the many things it has to say.
