Live Like Animals Set The Standard With Their Debut Album, ‘Modern State Of Mind’

‘Modern State of Mind’ marks the inaugural album from Eora/Sydney-based band Live Like Animals. The release navigates through pop, rock, and metal influences, encapsulating a fusion of sentiment, electronic craftsmanship and introspective lyrical content.

‘Modern State of Mind’ opens with ambient synths gracefully ascending, enveloping the listener in an otherworldly aura. Futuristic, robotic vocoders add distinctive textures, while the scorching production elevates the track to an almost transcendental experience.

Following this, ‘The White Room’ and ‘Bleach’ charge in with thunderous drum sequences, showcasing lead singer Nicholas Roy’s vocals that resonate with emotional fervor. ‘Bleach’ provides instances of solitude before plunging into an uproar of emotional tumult. However, both tracks illustrate the album’s capacity to contrast raw intensity with moments of poignant vulnerability. Both tracks offer guitars that mix soaring anthemic lines with fervent, raw distortion, serving as an emotional conduit to channel the band’s intense energy.

‘when time stood still’ introduces vintage recordings and vivacious pads, swiftly transitioning into a rapid electronic groove underscored by a growling bass line. Meanwhile, ‘Bloom’ takes a more structured pop/rock approach, exploring themes of inner turmoil and mental health through impassioned vocals and infectious lyricism.

‘I’ve Seen This Before’ and ‘in hexagonal space’ diverge into differing sonic realms, as the former is euphoric and contemplative, reminiscent of a rising crescendo akin to 30 Seconds To Mars. Conversely, ‘in hexagonal space’ crafts an eerie atmosphere with glitching elements and searing melodic chops, creating a sense of dark allure.

‘Everything Is Changing’ bursts forth with spirited, punchy instrumentals, complemented by pulsating subs and warm vocals. The track seamlessly transitions between rhythmic hits and chanting melodic lines, enhancing the album’s vibrant atmosphere. ‘rent an escape’ slower tempo allows the soundscapes to ebb and flow, hinting at the album’s imminent conclusion while referencing earlier tracks.

The pinnacle of the record arrives with ‘Fake Smiles’ weaving together ascendant melodies, dynamic drumming, and fierce vocals, providing a decisive conclusion.

‘Modern State of Mind’ is a mosaic of varied soundscapes and emotional depth, deftly crafting a compelling narrative revolving around different mental chambers. It delves into themes of introspection, emotional upheaval, and the intricacies of the human experience.

LIVE LIKE ANIMALS

TOUR DATES

Supporting RinRin*
Supporting The Last Martyr**

FRI 10 NOV | STAY GOLD, NAARM/MELBOURNE VIC*
WED 15 NOV | HAMILTON STATION HOTEL, AWABAKAL/NEWCASTLE NSW
THU 16 NOV | THE BASEMENT, NGUNNAWAL/CANBERRA ACT
SAT 18 NOV | THE BURDEKIN HOTEL, EORA/SYDNEY NSW**