Sunday 31 July 2011

Little Dragon - Ritual Union


It will probably come as a surprise that Ritual Union is the title track to the Swedish quartet's third album (out now).  Yet few people have heard of them - until now.

This track has received more radio airplay and industry attention than their previous material - and deservedly so.  Ritual Union is a subtle and unassuming, yet totally accessible electro-pop track that lyrically explores the claustraphobia of marriage.  The band are fronted by Swedish-Japanese singer Yukimi Nagano (the titular Little Dragon), whose sweet falsetto floats above crystal clear production and fluttering percussive beats.  It's a stunningly ambient combination, crafted with economic perfection.  They may be a little too cool for school, but Ritual Union is an utterly enchanting record.

4/5