Do The Whirlwind (MP3)
The first taste of Architecture in Helsinki's post-Fingers Crossed sound comes from the Do the Whirlwind EP. The title track, which is about a dance that doesn't exist, is much sleeker and synth-driven than anything that appeared on Architecture in Helsinki's debut album; with its undulating bassline and sweet, slightly detached female vocals, it takes more than a few cues from Nena, the Human League and other danceable {new wave} acts. That is, until the second half of the song introduces a cheerfully off-kilter saxophone melody, sitars, brass and seemingly Spike Jones-inspired sound effects. From there, the EP gets even quirkier with Love is Evil (The Prequel), which combines the group's version of dancehall toasting with spooky organs, a clicky rhythm and dubby production. Do the Whirlwind (Haima's Remix) offers an even more overtly dance take on the title track, and Find Your Power Animal expands on the rustic, folky feel that often hovers around the edges of Architecture in Helsinki's work. With its campfire warmth, repetitive chanting, plucked acoustic guitar and transcendent vibe, it's not unlike an Antipodean, less chaotic cousin to Animal Collective's Sung Tongs. The ways that Architecture in Helsinki takes their sound in very different directions in just four songs on Do the Whirlwind will whet the appetites of their fans for even more of their sprawling, charming music. ~ Heather Phares, All Music Guide
| Tracklisting | |
| Disk | 1 | |
| 1 | Do the Whirlwind |
| 2 | Love is Evil - The Prequel |
| 3 | Do the Whirlwind |
| 4 | Find Your Power Animal |