Album Review: Young the Giant’s “Home of the Strange”

Everything is put out on the dance floor, as southern California’s alternative-indie rockers, Young the Giant, release their newest album, Home of the Strange (2016). An album with a glossy and ethereal sound that stimulates the ear with infectious melodies and innovative production elements. 

Four days ago, the band released their newest LP that was meant to be an album of discovery and self-reflection. There is a medley of many different sounds at work on this album. The sounds of the synth pads and choice of gritty, washed out guitar tones provide a funky fresh turn for the group. Much similar to the band’s previous album, Mind Over Matter (2014), the new tracks lean towards a modern, dance-infused, “future funk”. Lead singer and front-man, Sameer Gadhia, shows his vocal finesse on tracks like “Something To Believe In”, “Elsewhere” and “Mr. Know-It-All”, a song about a boy and girl feeling alienated in a material world.Throughout the album, there are hints of confusion and lost identity in the lyrics. However, there are also songs that show themes of self-discovery and exploration such as in “Titus Was Born”, a song about a dreamer lost at sea. You know what they say though, “not all who wander are lost.” I definitely recommend listeners to check out this new album by Young The Giant, and if you haven’t yet, see them LIVE at Revention Music Center in Houston, Oct. 7, 2016. You can find the tour schedule and link to tickets HERE on the band’s website. For now, check out my new favorite song, “Silvertongue” on the new album, Home of the Strange by Young The Giant…..dig it, baby….. – FR

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By Franco Rosa