British brothers Howard and Guy Lawrence — better known by their stage name Disclosure — released their album “Caracal” Sept. 25. This was their first major release since their debut album “Settle” premiered in 2013. The fifteen-song album is a compilation of catchy electronic songs with one-of-a-kind beats and features renowned artists including Lorde, the Weeknd and Sam Smith.
While listeners often associate Disclosure with the upbeat vibes of its chart-topping single “Latch,” Disclosure has taken a slightly different direction with “Caracal.” Unlike the group’s previous album, “Caracal,” has a more subdued tone, which is both striking and intriguing.
“Caracal’s” black cover art and somber yet catchy melodies show Disclosure dabbling in darker themes. This is by no means a bad thing, though. If anything, the darker tone reveals Disclosure’s versatility, especially in the album’s opening track, “Nocturnal.”
The song opens with a simple and attention grabbing beat. As the title suggests, "Nocturnal's" somber lyrics are sure to keep fans up at night with lines such as, “Street lights, turn on one by one, my hope is descending like the sun.” When coupled with the reverberating echo of the Weeknd’s high voice, these lyrics create an eerie and authentic tune.
Another focal point of “Nocturnal” and the album as a whole is the quality and originality of its beats. Electronic music often becomes repetitive from recycling certain sounds, but Disclosure produces genuine melodies unlike any other currently popular electronic songs.
“Caracal’s” success also stems from Disclosure’s selection of featured artists. The album’s second song, “Omen,” will be a treat to listeners who were fans of “Latch,” as it marks the return of the Sam Smith-Disclosure duo.
Like “Nocturnal,” “Omen” has a darker theme with lyrics like, “My mind would rule my heart, I didn't pay attention to the light in the dark. It left me torn apart, but now I see your tears are an omen.” However, between the harmony of Smith’s voice and the catchy beat of the chorus, this song has a bit more of a dance vibe.
As a whole, “Caracal” marks another milestone of success for Disclosure. With the innovativeness of its sounds and lyrics, “Caracal” is sure to be topping charts around the world in 2015.
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