get to your record store: little dragon

I love a song you can dance to, but there’s a problem.  I can’t help but find dance music a bit, well, boring.  The repetitive nature of most dance music fits perfectly on the dance floor, but let’s be honest – I’m not hitting the club every night.  I’m more likely to listen to dance music in my car, at work, or around my house.  And while I might be able to bring in a little dancing into those activities, I need something more than a steady beat to hold my attention.

That’s what I like about Little Dragon.  This electronic band out of Sweden plays around with dance beats but makes sure there’s enough going on to keep you interested off the dance floor, as well.   Today, they are releasing their third record, Ritual Union.  Right now, you can stream the whole album over at NPR, which I highly recommend.  The title track pulls you into their sound immediately and Yukimi Nagano’s vocals keep it going.

If you want a little visual with your sound, check out a live performance of “Little Man,” shot by Yours Truly.

Listen/Watch For:

• soulful vocals at 1:50 (and really, throughout the song).  Just gorgeous.
• the keys and the vocals following the same melody through the chorus.  It both simplifies and extends the song.
• how the band silently sings along.  I love it when an entire band seems to love their song like that.

Now that you can’t stop bopping your head to the beat, get over to the record store and pick up a copy.  That way, when someone asks you to DJ their hip and happening party, you’ll have the perfect record.