By Angela Espinoza, Arts Editor
5/5
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he latest release by AU came out on April 2 and is entitled Both Lights. The experimental group of ever-changing artists surrounding lead man Luke Wyland has once again created something absurd, adventurous, and beautiful all at the same time.
Tracks that feature vocals are largely sung by Wyland, occasionally featuring an accompanying female voice. However, the album also has its fair share of instrumental tracks; the experimentation on the album though is lively, keeping the listener ever alert. Rather than find the switch of styles off-putting, AU has gotten the hang of things over the years to find balance between every type of track—and each track truly is its own.
Both Lights starts off with a bang, as the opening instrumental track “Epic” features rapid drums and guitar aggressively meshed together amidst an excited piano and many other parts. While not nearly as thrash-worthy, other fun pieces include “Get Alive” and “Why I must.” Things eventually slow down on tracks like “Crazy Idol, “The Veil,” and “Go Slow,” which feature gentle, melodic cooing by Wyland and long, drawn out piano compositions.
A stunning piece of work that perhaps plays things a bit too safe in the end, Both Lights makes for a wonderful listen.
