Pop/Review Living With The Storm - New Animal Culture
A merging of electronica, trip-hop, progressive rock, and ambient music, Living With The Storm is the solo project of Jim Bryant, also remotely known for being one half of Hero Monk and, in the dim and distant past, one third of Earth Calling Alice. Since starting the project during lockdown, Jim has remained prolific, releasing the 'Purpose of the Planet' and 'Wolf' EPs, the albums 'Between Two Hurricanes' and 'Memoria', which was described by one reviewer as “an art-pop masterpiece,” and, in 2024, ‘New Animal Culture’.
The much awaited third album from Living With The Storm, "New Animal Culture," follows the critically acclaimed "art-pop masterpiece" that was their last release. Living With The Storm's most recent release is a compilation of nine engrossing songs that demonstrate their growth as musicians and composers.
"New Animal Culture" is fundamentally an examination of excellent music and skillful songwriting. Every song on the album has a captivating backstory that takes listeners on a trip through both universal and personal topics. With every note, Living With The Storm showcases their variety and musical talent, from pensive ballads to anthemic rockers.
The single "No Maps," which is particularly noteworthy, explores the pressing problem of the refugee crisis and provides a moving assessment on the status of the globe. This music transports listeners to the brutal reality of being uprooted by violence and persecution using sounds captured from an actual refugee camp. The poignant song "No Maps" serves as a potent reminder of the value of empathy and compassion in a world growing more separated by its eerie melodies and interesting lyrics.
Living With The Storm skillfully combines pop, indie rock, and art-pop components throughout "New Animal Culture" to create a vibrant and dynamic aural environment. With elaborate arrangements and captivating melodies, every song is skillfully composed to enthrall and motivate listeners. "New Animal Culture," which has an inventive production and compelling storyline, further establishes Living With The Storm as one of the most inventive and exciting bands in modern music.
"New Animal Culture" is, in essence, more than simply an album; it's a monument to the ability of music to stir up feelings, encourage reflection, and spur social change. Living With The Storm beckons listeners to embark on a voyage of introspection and discovery with its captivating tales and catchy tunes. "New Animal Culture" is proof of Living With The Storm's undefeated dedication to inventiveness and ingenuity as they push the limits of their craft.