2011, Frenchkiss

The Antlers expand upon their already distinctive voice with Burst Apart, an inspired melding of complex electronic textures and acutely emotive songcraft. The eagerly awaited follow-up to 2009's critically acclaimed Hospice was born out of an intensely collaborative process in which singer/guitarist Peter Silberman, drummer Michael Lerner, and keyboardist/multi-instrumentalist Darby Cicci fully immersed themselves in sonic experimentation, working as a tightly knit creative unit to fulfill a shared musical vision. Songs like the shimmering "I Don't Want Love" and the languorous "Rolled Together" are lush, nuanced, and uncommonly moving, seamlessly integrating accessible and effective melodies with dynamic, imaginative orchestrations. With its swelling pulsebeats, intricately crafted arrangements, and dreamy pop hooks, the remarkably sensual Burst Apart sees The Antlers' ambition and artistry ascending to an extraordinary new plane. Since releasing Hospice, all three members have developed an increased interest in electronic music. The band's goal was to draw upon those post-rock sounds while still employing classic songwriting structures, synthesizing ostensibly artificial qualities into an organic pop template to evoke full panoply of feeling. While The Antlers' ardent passion for musical exploration resonates throughout the album, it expertly sustains a careful balance between the cerebral and the visceral. Epic in aspiration yet intimate at its core, Burst Apart is an astonishingly affective collection that offers an exhilarating glimpse into The Antlers' incandescent heart.